A brain injury Clubhouse is a community center for people living with the effects
of a brain injury. The Clubhouse is based on a model that has been recognized for
over 70 years. It offers a safe environment where people are treated with dignity
and respect.
A Clubhouse focuses on abilities rather than disabilities, and capitalizes on these
abilities for the combined good of all Members. Members of the Clubhouse are recognized
for their contribution, no matter how big or small that contribution is. There are
no ‘patients’ in the Clubhouse. Members work together to support each other in the
pursuit of personal goals. In the process, people develop the skills and self-esteem
needed to regain control of meaningful and productive lives. The Clubhouse encourages
community re-entry, the rebuilding of social relationships and the training of skills
required to return to productive activity.
The Clubhouse is divided into four main areas: Work Ordered Day, (which consists
of Units such as Kitchen and Business), Employment, Education and Evening/Weekend
activities. Members choose who they want to work with and how they want to utilize
the Clubhouse. Staff is sufficient to engage the membership, yet few enough to make
carrying out their responsibilities impossible without member involvement.