Dottie Fuentes, Northeastern Center’s chief clinical officer and an advocate for our New Hope Clubhouse, recently answered some questions about Clubhouse and how more people can join.   

Q: What is New Hope Clubhouse? 

A: New Hope Clubhouse is one of Northeastern Center’s most valuable recovery resources. It’s a program that helps individuals:  

  • Build friendships. 
  • Develop purpose. 
  • Pursue employment and education goals. 
  • Strengthen community connections. 
  • And advance their recovery through meaningful participation in the day. 

Q: Who should join New Hope Clubhouse?  

A: Clubhouse is designed for adults with serious mental illness, which is a pretty broad designation in mental health care. More specifically, membership might be a good fit for individuals who:  

  • Would benefit from increased social connection and friendship. 
  • Need greater structure, purpose and community involvement. 
  • Are interested in employment, education, volunteering or skill development. 
  • Have become isolated or disengaged from meaningful activities. 
  • Could benefit from building natural supports and confidence in recovery.

Q: How can you know if Clubhouse is the right fit for you (or your loved one)?  

A: To help individuals experience Clubhouse firsthand, we will be hosting Clubhouse Engagement Days each Wednesday during August:  

  • Aug.5       
    • Aug.12     
    • Aug. 19     
    • Aug. 26     

During the above days, Clubhouse will be open for tours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will also be served daily from noon to 1 p.m. (Please call ahead to order: 260-347-2454.)  

Q: What’s something you wish more people knew about Clubhouse?  

Attending even one or two days per week can make a meaningful difference in a member’s life. 

I encourage people to ask, “Would I benefit from greater connection, purpose, friendship, employment support, education, or community involvement?” 

If the answer is yes, they should consider New Hope Clubhouse. 

 

New Hope Clubhouse is located at 304 S. Lincoln St. in Kendallville, Indiana, but serves individuals from DeKalb, LaGrange, Noble and Steuben counties. For more information, visit nec.org/clubhouse or call 260-347-2454.)