The Vocational Clubhouses

The Clubhouse Model of Psychiatric Rehabilitation is used with success at both the Capitol Clubhouse in Augusta and the High Hopes Clubhouse in Waterville. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for adults who experience mental illness by providing social, educational and employment opportunities. High Hopes Clubhouse and Capitol Clubhouse are independent programs of Kennebec Behavioral Health. KBH is opening a third such clubhouse, in Lewiston, in 2012.

The Clubhouses help support members with overcoming barriers to employment by offering services such as job development, job placement, job coaching and job support.  A major component of Clubhouse is Transitional Employment.  Transitional Employment offers members the chance to work at a paid, part-time job for 6 to 9 months.  The Clubhouses have established partnerships with local businesses that provide these Transitional Employment opportunities and there is extensive support from both the Clubhouse and employer.

The Clubhouses have an in-house prevocational program that focuses on members' strengths and not their illnesses.  The Clubhouses offer educational resources to members and encourage them to further their education. 

Some members may not be ready to work, but they are welcome to attend Clubhouse to deal with any feelings of loneliness and isolation. Membership provides an opportunity for growth and increased self-esteem as well as a sense of empowerment.  The Clubhouse is a place where members can meet others, feel accepted, and where they are treated with dignity and respect.