🎵 “Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name.” 🎵

At CEL, the feeling of being welcomed and truly known is part of everyday life, just like in the classic TV show Cheers. But unlike Cheers, that sense of belonging doesn’t usually happen at a local bar for our members. Until now.

For the first time ever, our Thursday Guys Night crew hit the town, visiting not one, but two local hangouts: Old Munich and Amvets. The evening was filled with laughs, games, cold drinks (both beers and sodas), and the kind of easygoing camaraderie that makes you feel like you belong.

As our group walked in, they were greeted like anyone else: a nod, a quick glance, maybe a smile, and big, warm welcome from the bartender. CEL members Brian and Jeff tried samples of a few brews before heading over to the gaming machines to test their luck while the rest of the guys took their drinks to the pool table and dartboard for a few rounds.

When asked about the evening, member Antonio shared, “It was great. I mean, this isn’t my first rodeo – I’ve been to bars before. It was fun, and what I liked most was getting drinks and playing games.”

One of the most memorable moments came when a woman at the bar asked Antonio what his favorite song was, to which he replied, “Better Place by NSYNC.” Moments later, when that very song played through the speakers, Antonio lit up and called out a heartfelt, “Thank you!!” across the bar.

It was a small gesture, but one that showed Antonio he was seen, valued, and appreciated.

CEL Program Manager Veronica Luna summed it up best, saying, “It was such a small, casual moment that was actually huge because we were integrated and accepted into the community.”

Thriving in the community is what CEL is all about.

Veronica continued, “When I think of CEL, I think of our members experiencing ALL of life’s possibilities: building life skills, learning to live independently, and being part of the community.  Our members deserve to enjoy the full range of adult experiences, whether it’s going to a bar, trying their luck at the casino, or just having a beer with friends.”

These are the everyday joys that everyone should have access to. And our guys were all smiles, laughing, sharing stories, and already planning the next outing.

Nights like this are more than just fun. They’re about friendship, freedom, and being seen for who you are. They’re what belonging looks like, and our guys lived it fully.