More Than Just Vending
YIKES! Beverages delivers dependable vending and breakroom service across Chicago’s North Shore with a personal, local touch.
Built around Matthew’s strengths and supported by community partnership, YIKES! is proof that small businesses can make a big impact.
Meet Matthew
Matthew founded YIKES! Beverages with a simple goal: to build an independent career while serving businesses in his own community.
A graduate of New Trier High School, Matthew launched YIKES! with the support of Total Link to Community, a Northbrook-based organization dedicated to crafting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. With the guidance of his job coach and a committed microboard, he turned that foundation into a growing beverage service that now celebrates more than a decade in business.
Every day, Matthew is hands-on: stocking machines, managing deliveries, and maintaining the relationships that have sustained YIKES! for 10 years. His work is practical, reliable, and rooted in real responsibility.
Matthew’s commitment, consistency, and enthusiasm outshine the challenges he faces living with a developmental disability. He brings energy to everything he does, whether restocking breakrooms or delivering beverages to social or business events.
Outside of work, Matthew loves bowling, swimming, grocery shopping, electronics recycling, and spending time in his community. Living independently in the Chicago suburbs, he continues to grow both personally and professionally each year.
YIKES! Beverages isn’t just a service. It is Matthew’s career, his pride, and his contribution to the community he calls home.
IN THE PRESS
“People see Matthew as an entrepreneur, as a trail blazer, as someone who has a valuable contribution to make.”
– Northwestern’s Medill Reports Chicago
Built With Community Support
YIKES! Beverages was developed in partnership with Total Link2 Community (TL2C), a local nonprofit dedicated to creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Using a Customized Employment model, TL2C worked with Matthew and his Circle of Support to identify his strengths, preferences, and talents, and build a business around them.
Matthew enjoys soda (naturally), handling cash and inventory, staying active, and meeting new people. Those strengths evolved into a micro-enterprise that brings dependable vending and beverage delivery to the North Shore.
YIKES! isn’t just about drinks. It’s about purpose, independence, and real work with real value in the community Matthew calls home.
Better Connections. Better Community.
Ready for to work with a local beverage partner?
Whether you need vending, breakroom service, or event drinks, we’ll make it simple.