When you walk into Mychal’s Café, you might notice Caelyn’s energy before anything else. Dynamic, charismatic, and hardworking, Caelyn is one of those people who lights up a room. A proud LA native, she first came to Mychal’s Learning Place at age 12 after hearing about it through a family friend. From participating in the After-School program to working in Mychal’s Bakery, and now Mychal’s Café, Caelyn’s journey is a shining example of growth and determination.
Over the years, she has learned “a lot,” from front-of-house skills to working behind the scenes in the kitchen. She recalls struggling with the salad station at first, but beams when she says, “Now look at me! I’m doing it independently without help!” Her very first dish made solo was a traditional breakfast with scrambled eggs. Today, she can run the register, prepare drinks as a barista, and whip up delicious meals. “I’m a coffee drinker,” she laughs, admitting iced coffee with any flavor is her favorite treat.
For Caelyn, her work at the Café is about much more than food and service. “Having a job feels out of this world. This place is my forever home, and Ed is like a dad to me,” she says. She loves her coworkers, thrives on meeting new people, and takes pride in every paycheck she earns. “It’s a big accomplishment working here. I love getting paid! I’m saving to save, not for anything special right now.”
Her drive does not stop there. Caelyn dreams of mastering the expo line, a challenge she is eager to take on. Beyond work, she has explored dance, theater, and Special Olympics swimming. At home, she babysits her next door neighbor and treasures her growing independence, celebrating the accomplishment of staying overnight by herself and setting the goal of one day living on her own. “I’m ready to move out, but I’m not rushing it- and I’m not letting my disability hold me back.”
What stands out most about Caelyn is her balance of fun and responsibility. “I like to have fun with my friends here, but I am responsible so I get the work done,” she says with confidence. Both her grandma and Ed call her a rock star, and she wholeheartedly agrees. And really, how could anyone argue?
Caelyn’s mother, Clausine, says “Cae is so independent … has always been … with a mind of her own. As a daughter, family member and friend, she is so easy to want to be with because she is up for anything, flexible and loves being around and meeting new people. I truly believe that the opportunities provided by Mychal’s have given her the confidence, strength and nerve to do and try just about anything that is presented to her and has helped shape her outgoing personality. We are so fortunate to be part of the Mychal’s family.”
At 30, Caelyn is a shining example of what is possible when passion meets perseverance. She loves her coworkers, enjoys meeting new people, and is always ready for the next challenge. Whether she is brewing coffee, serving customers, tackling new challenges, or chasing her future goals – Caelyn inspires everyone around her to believe in themselves and keep moving forward!
