Keeping in touch while keeping our distance! How Magnolia Clubhouse is Continuing to Work as a Community

Every week on Mondays at 1 p.m., fifty or so members and staff ‘gather’ together for our virtual House meeting, since Magnolia Clubhouse temporarily closed its doors to on-site work. Smiles and waves are exchanged, “It’s so nice to see everyone!” is the shared refrain. The large turnouts are both fun and comfort to all, and Unit meetings are being held each day of the week, for each of the four Clubhouse Units- Hospitality, Membership, Communications, and Administration. The focus of the meetings is being sure everyone is doing well, attending to any unmet needs, questions, concerns, and encouraging each other with helpful ideas and support. The other focus is the work of the Clubhouse, continuing remotely, sharing recipes for at-home cooking, producing a newsletter and gathering emails for distribution, continued development of social media videos, information, stories, and sharing and connecting with Clubhouses in Ohio and around the world.

Executive Director, Lori D’Angelo, Ph.D., says, “When you’re isolated, it’s easier to slip into depression and other symptoms of mental illness increase.  The purpose of Magnolia Clubhouse is to provide community and purpose and find a productive way to join in life, rather than being apart from it.  The current need for physical distancing is challenging for everyone.  Our Clubhouse community continues to have the strength of what it always provides and we are finding new ways to remain connected and productive, moving forward together.  During this difficult time, everyone is keenly aware of the need for community and purpose.”

The Clubhouse community remains open providing outreach services remotely via phone, text, email, and social media. The Clubhouse team continues to work together to support mental health and assist with challenges people may be facing with basic needs. Magnolia Clubhouse has a clinic integrating psychiatric and physical care which continues to provide services both through telemedicine and in person.

“We are very happy to share that our community is doing well. The challenges will increase as time goes on, but it is comforting to know that our community system of care is working.  The broader international network of the Clubhouse Model is also sharing ideas across Clubhouses to stay connected with members and to connect with each other, and we are a part of that leadership.”

“For everyone, we hope this time can bring new opportunities and a renewed appreciation for all that we share. We are here for everyone and wish you all good health, peace, and hope.”

The Clubhouse is accepting new members. If you or a family member are interested in joining the Clubhouse, please call us at 216.721.3030 and leave us a message. A member of our team will get back to you quickly.

 

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