Who We Are
Based on the International Clubhouse model, Alliance House was founded in 1987. Offering evidence-based vocational and social rehabilitation, this nonprofit provides a non-clinical environment in which members and staff run the day-to-day operations of the house as collaborative equals.
As one of twelve Internationally accredited Clubhouses, Alliance House is an international training center site. Through an intensive training program, Alliance House assists other Clubhouses in bringing this proven community model to life.
What is Clubhouse
A Clubhouse is a non-clinical community for adults living with a mental health diagnosis. Staff and Members share ownership and responsibility for the success of the Clubhouse. Members are seen as valued colleagues whose skills and contributions are necessary for Clubhouse operations. Membership is voluntary and without time limits, creating a space of belonging and healing which encourages vocational and social progress. As isolation is often a challenge for those living with mental illness, Clubhouse fosters a sense of belonging and purpose while also encouraging integration into the larger community.
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What is Clubhouse International
The Clubhouse Model began in New York City in the 1950’s during a period of great de-institutionalization. Many people who had recently been discharged from the Rockland State Hospital began to meet on a street corner for mutual support, which was recognized by a social worker by the name of John Beard. He saw a gap between hospitalization and reintegration back into society for adults who suffered from serious mental illness. Beard believed that people need a place to build meaningful relationships and to be a contributing part of a community. He helped found Fountain House, the first of many clubhouses to follow this new model. With there now being more than 370 clubhouses across 33 countries, Clubhouse International unifies these clubhouses under one organization. They help expand, define, and advocate for this model that has helped so many struggling with serious mental health diagnoses.
