I recently hit 19 months of sobriety, and it's made me realize just how much community has helped me through all of it, from getting sober to staying sober to really connecting with the people around me. The beginning was hard, and The Phoenix was there for me during that time, helping me discover new events and meet new people.
When I moved to Milwaukee five years ago, I thought that as a queer person, the only way to make friends was at the bars. I learned pretty quickly that wasn't the right path for me. I wasn't finding any real sense of community or connection, and I was also starting to realize I was struggling myself.
Now I know how important community is, and that's why I've started hosting community events that create safe spaces for the people around me, whether you're sober, sober curious, or just want to give back to a great cause. I've learned I can build strong connections and enjoy everything Milwaukee has to offer without having a drink, and I want to give back to the organization that helped show me that.
Everything raised here goes to The Phoenix, so they can keep welcoming people who are looking for a new community to join, just like I was. Thank you so much to anyone who's able to support this! It truly means the world to me.
Your Queer & Sober Milwaukee Realtor, Brett Heglund
