A guaranteed right to a place to come. A guaranteed right to meaningful relationships. A guaranteed right to meaningful work. A guaranteed right to a place to belong.

History

Each year, many Americans experience some sort of mental illness. Clubhouses create a world of support and respect in which people with mental health challenges are no longer society’s outcasts, but are genuinely wanted and needed.

The Crystal House Clubhouse is a vital and dynamic resource for individuals recovering from mental health in the North Central region of Massachusetts. The Crystal House Clubhouse community originated as a social group which met twice a week in the 1980’s with the assistance of a few dedicated employees of North Central Human Services. What began as a social group meeting twice a week has grown into an organization which assists people recovering from mental illness reach their full potential through a vocational work ordered day and employment opportunities. The Crystal House Clubhouse has grown in numbers as well, with a membership of 293 members and an average daily attendance of 73 members. With a meaningful and engaging work environment, low priced meals, and opportunities in employment, the Crystal House Clubhouse is truly an attractive meaningful atmosphere for all its’ members.

The Crystal House Clubhouse reached a milestone in 2001, implementing their employment program. That same year the Crystal House Clubhouse received the “Best Program – North County Award” from the department of mental health and became a certified clubhouse through the International Center for Clubhouse Development. In 2005, the Crystal House Clubhouse won $4,000.00 in cash and $2,300.00 in services from Mount Wachusett Community College

The Crystal House Clubhouse is modeled after Fountain House Clubhouse in New York City founded in 1948. Due to the Fountain House Clubhouse success, more than 300 clubhouses worldwide have implemented their model. In conclusion, the action-oriented Crystal House Clubhouse continues to constantly improve the lives of its members through vocational meaningful work and a safe atmosphere which fosters respect and dignity.

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