The AIM Center Clubhouse
The AIM Center is one of more than 300 Clubhouses worldwide. The Clubhouse model is an evidence-based, psychosocial rehabilitation method to recovery from serious mental illness that addresses social and economic factors as part of a comprehensive, community-based approach. A Clubhouse is a restorative environment for people who have had their lives drastically disrupted and need the support of others who believe that recovery from mental illness is possible for all. By participating in a Clubhouse, individuals are provided opportunities to reconnect with friendships, family, meaningful work, employment, and education, as well as access the social services and supports they may need.
Every AIM Clubhouse member is paired with a designated ‘Recovery Coach’ to meet with as soon as membership is established. The Recovery Coach will work side-by-side with the individual to set recovery goals, conduct regular check-ins and serve as an advocate for them in programming, and in the community if needed. Our coaches are trained to utilize psychosocial rehabilitation methods and use key metric scales and tools to work with members on their recovery process throughout the duration of their visits to the Clubhouse. Our Clubhouse offers two units, two resource centers and a library-worth of programs and clubs for Members to participate in.
A Closer Look: The Business Unit
Opportunities within this unit include member financial services, applied arts, craft making, media and graphic design, communications, and clerical work. Varied and valuable workplace skills are learned and developed here that can be applied directly into life experiences, such as a receptionist job.
A Closer Look: The Wellness Unit
Opportunities within this unit include the Clubhouse Kitchen program encouraging members to plan, prepare and cook meals, the Snack Bar, the Fitness Center, and the Connected Care Program. We believe that mental health recovery encompasses all parts of the body and mind, and the Wellness Unit helps to stimulate that while providing key life skills.
Other Clubhouse Activities
Throughout the Clubhouse, and in each unit, many members meet among themselves, as a ‘club’. While each club has its own core focus, any member is welcome to participate. These clubs include the Education Club, Young Adults Club, and Employment Club.
In addition to these clubs, members also have the opportunity to participate together in many different activities in and outside of the Clubhouse – truly captivating the essence of a community. Some of these activities include yoga, financial literacy classes, cafe training, tending to our garden plots, Employment Dinners, weekend social outings, and special holiday socials. Additionally, weekly meetings occur throughout the Clubhouse so that members and staff can come together side-by-side to voice their opinions, concerns, and provide updates and feedback to strengthen the programs we have in place. Every moment within the Clubhouse provides a side-by-side opportunity to work with other members or staff members, building confidence, independence and social change.