Today we’d like to introduce you to Austin Clubhouse.
Please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
In 2008, a group of volunteers came together at a NAMI Austin meeting and decided they were tired of seeing people with mental health diagnosis fall through the cracks. They were seeing repeat hospitalizations, wasted potential in life for their loved ones far too often and began the search for an alternative.
They heard about a proven model of recovery they could implement in Central Texas for adults with chronic mental illness. An evidence-based program started in New York City in the 1940’s, called Fountain House, that had been replicated all over the world. They were inspired and researched other Clubhouse programs and attended trainings to develop a Clubhouse in Austin.
Austin Clubhouse opened its doors to just seven members on August 10, 2010 and has witnessed hundreds of lives transformed by the belief that recovery from mental illness is possible with the help of a supportive community. Today, we serve almost 1,200 members and continue to grow.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As with all nonprofits, there were definitely some struggles in starting a group from scratch. Spreading awareness of the program, obtaining funding and adequate space to operate in were the first challenges. Finding partners for the supportive employment programs offered in a Clubhouse was another obstacle that was a primary concern. Thankfully, an inherent strength of a Clubhouse program is that all members are able to chip in their time and expertise to help run the organization from top to bottom. As the membership grows, so does the pool of talent and thanks to the tireless efforts of the directors, members and staff working together, word began to spread.
We were able to partner with more and more local organizations to help our members find and keep jobs, obtain safe housing, pursue continued education and live healthier lifestyles. Like every similar grassroots organization, our work is never done, but as long as we keep working together, we’ll rise to the challenge and continue to grow.
Austin Clubhouse – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Austin Clubhouse is a non-clinical mental health organization that focuses on a person’s strengths, talents and abilities. Rather than providing therapy the Clubhouse provides opportunity and community for adults living with a mental health diagnosis. We organize our operation like a traditional workday, from Monday to Friday from 9-5, so that members can find the structure that works best for them when they join us to offer up their talents. Our accepting environment gives members an opportunity to connect socially and fulfill a meaningful role through working side-by-side with others.
The number one expressed desire of new members is that they want to get a job. Because of this our Clubhouse has a huge emphasis on helping those in our community find work, no matter what their employment background is like. From our intensive “Transitional Employment” program that helps reintegration to the workforce to being a robust resource of opportunities for independent employment opportunities, we aim to help get a job for anyone who wants to work.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
At Austin Clubhouse, success means simply doing your best. When you’re living with a mental health diagnoses, sometimes getting out your front door and coming to the Clubhouse is a huge win. Sometimes, helping your colleagues when you get there to help make a healthy and fresh meal for the community is your goal for the day. Whether you want to help water the garden or help write a grant to get funding for the organization, just trying your hardest is you succeed.
Contact Info:
- Address: 610 E 45th St.
Austin TX 78703 - Website: austinclubhouse.org
- Phone: 512-925-5877
- Email: info@austinclubhouse.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinclubhouse/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AustinClubhouse/
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