Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley Miracle Clubhouse has helped many people who suffer with mental illness. On June 4th, a nationwide Day of Giving will be take place for Clubhouse International around the country. Welcome guest blogger, Buddy as he shares how the clubhouse has helped him. Remember, awareness is key.
Shari
The sign on the front door says, “A place to be who you are”. When someone gets a diagnosis of mental illness, there is usually an idea that something is wrong with them. Is this accurate or are we just different?
The Clubhouse is a place where we can slow down, gather our ideas and plan for our futures. Life like art requires time. At the Clubhouse, we can use our time productively and engage in the Work-Ordered Day. Also, we can network with the other members and the staff. The Clubhouse International Standards are brilliantly designed to put members’ needs forward and to integrate members with staff in a way that builds confidence in the members. We work together side by side. We can encourage one another and let one another know that we are not the only ones going through things like depression.
Some of us have outside jobs while some of us don’t. But at least we have a place to be with others with similar challenges. I noticed at our recent socials, including the art projects and karaoke performances, that we are an unusually creative group. And that is a positive, sometimes we just need to figure out how to put that creativity to good use. Sometimes we like all people need to regroup and figure out ways to move forward in a positive direction. The Clubhouse is a place to do that.
By, Buddy (not so) Rich
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and our guest blogger, Buddy, shares his thoughts as a Clubhouse Member. Miracle Clubhouse is an Accredited Clubhouse through Clubhouse International. If you are interested in donating to the Miracle Clubhouse on June 4th during the Clubhouse International’s Day of Giving click here.
Through over 350 local Clubhouses in 32 countries around the world, Clubhouse International offers people living with mental illness opportunities for friendship, employment, housing, education, and access to medical and psychiatric services in a single caring and safe environment – this social and economic inclusion reverses the alarming trends of higher suicide, hospitalization and incarceration rates associated with mental illness.