Proposed Inclusive Cafe Gets A Name Change: Special Friends Cafe Is Now The Grateful Mug

HARWICH – The Special Friends Cafe initiative to establish a location that will employ young adults with different abilities resulting from autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other intellectual disabilities is moving forward, but under a new name.

The inclusive cafe will now be known as the Grateful Mug, according to Shana Grogan, executive board president and founder of the organization formerly known as Special Friends Cafe. 

 “This rebranding comes as part of our journey to establish The Grateful Mug as a beacon of inclusion and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD),” she said. “During our work with legal teams in Boston to secure our business license and nonprofit status, trademark issues with our previous name surfaced. While it was a necessary change, we’ve embraced the opportunity to reflect and reimagine a name that truly captures the heart of our mission.”

 Grogan said The Grateful Mug embodies the commitment to fostering a warm, welcoming environment where individuals with IDD can gain meaningful employment and build a sense of community pride. The cafe will offer more than just coffee and food; it will serve as a hub for connection, learning and advocacy, redefining what it means to be an inclusive workplace, she said.

 “We believe this new name perfectly reflects the gratitude we feel for the community’s support and the opportunities we aim to create for individuals of all abilities,” said Grogan.

 Grogan said she appreciates the ongoing support of the town as efforts move forward to finalize and announce the location for the cafe in Harwich Port. She urged people to stay tuned for an opening date and upcoming events. 

“We can’t wait to welcome you to The Grateful Mug, where every sip contributes to a more connected and compassionate community,” said Grogan.