What Is Whatcom Clubhouse?

Community Service Spotlight

Whatcom Clubhouse Logo

by Evan Mulligan

Whatcom Clubhouse gives people living with serious mental illness opportunities for friendship, employment, housing, education and access to medical and psychiatric services in a single caring and safe environment. This social and economic inclusion reverses the alarming trends of higher suicide, hospitalization and incarceration rates associated with mental illness. As a local resource, Whatcom Clubhouse plays a crucial role in addressing mental health needs within our community.

Providing support, community, opportunity, and hope, the clubhouse empowers its members to regain control of their lives, work towards their personal goals and live a life in recovery. Whatcom Clubhouse envisions a world where individuals with mental health conditions are equally valued, respected, and can lead fulfilling lives.

Whatcom Clubhouse is affiliated with Clubhouse International, a global network dedicated to supporting individuals with mental illness. Clubhouse International’s standards are the heart of our operations, ensuring that we provide a respectful and opportunity-rich environment for our members. These 36 standards, which are reviewed and updated biennially, cover various aspects such as membership, relationships, employment and administration. They serve as a “bill of rights” for members and a code of ethics for staff, promoting a community where everyone can achieve their social, financial, educational, and vocational goals.

Core Services

  • Work-Ordered Day
    The “work-ordered day” is a cornerstone of the clubhouse model. Members and staff work together to manage the daily operations of the clubhouse, engaging in activities such as administrative tasks, outreach to other members, meal preparation, janitorial, maintenance, and event organization. This collaborative approach helps members develop essential life skills, build self-esteem, and gain a sense of purpose. The work-ordered day structure ensures that members have a routine and a sense of responsibility, which are crucial for mental health recovery.
  •  Employment Programs:
    Whatcom Clubhouse will be launching key employment services in 2025 to further support clubhouse members interested in employment opportunities. These programs include Transitional Employment (TE), Supported Employment (SE), and Independent Employment (IE). “TE” provides part-time job opportunities in the community, with full support of clubhouse staff. “SE” offers ongoing support to employed members, while also allowing growth for more independence. “IE” encourages members to pursue independent job opportunities, with guidance and support from the clubhouse. These employment programs are designed to help members build work experience, develop job skills, and achieve financial independence.
  •  Education Programs:
    Education is a vital component of the recovery process. Whatcom Clubhouse offers educational support to members pursuing academic goals, GED (General Educational Development) prep, including assistance with course enrollment, filling out paperwork and access to educational resources. The clubhouse also provides workshops and classes on various topics, such as computer skills, financial literacy, and wellness. By offering educational support, the clubhouse helps members gain knowledge and skills that can improve their quality of life and open new opportunities.
  •  Social, Wellness and Recreational Activities:
    Building social connections is essential for mental health recovery. Whatcom Clubhouse organizes various social and recreational activities to help members form meaningful relationships and have fun. These activities include member clubs (chess club, fishing club, skateboarding club, etc.), art classes, and community outings. By participating in these events, members can reduce feelings of isolation and build a supportive network of peers. Promoting physical and mental well-being is a priority. The clubhouse offers a range of wellness activities, including wellness walks, mindfulness sessions, nutritional workshops, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) support group, cooccurring 12-step group for those with SUD (substance use disorder) and a mental health condition, and empathy class to help members learn social skills. These activities help members develop healthy habits and improve their overall quality of life.
  •  Peer Support:
    Members can connect with others who have similar experiences, providing a sense of understanding and camaraderie. Peer support groups offer a safe space to share challenges and successes, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.
  •  Housing Support:
    Stable housing is a critical factor in mental health recovery. Whatcom Clubhouse provides housing support to members who need assistance finding and maintaining safe and affordable housing. Th is includes help with navigating housing resources, applying for housing programs, and connecting with community agencies. By ensuring that members have access to stable housing, the clubhouse helps create a foundation for recovery and stability.

Clubhouse Impact

The services provided by Whatcom Clubhouse have a profound impact on its members. By offering a supportive and inclusive environment, the clubhouse helps individuals with mental health conditions regain their confidence and independence. Members report improvements in their mental health, increased social connections, and a greater sense of purpose. The clubhouse model is proven to reduce hospitalizations, ER visits, incarceration, crisis intervention, stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness by promoting understanding and acceptance within the community. Through its various programs and activities, the clubhouse empowers members to take control of their lives and work towards recovery and their personal goals.

Community Involvement

Whatcom Clubhouse actively engages with the broader community to raise awareness about mental health and promote inclusion. The clubhouse collaborates with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies to advocate for the needs of individuals with mental health conditions. Community members are encouraged to get involved by volunteering to plan a fundraiser, teach a class, and donating. Financial contributions, as well as donations of goods and services, help sustain the clubhouse’s programs and support its mission. By fostering partnerships and building relationships within the community, the clubhouse creates a network of support for its members and promotes a culture of acceptance and understanding.

Future Goals and Expansion

Looking ahead, Whatcom Clubhouse has ambitious plans for growth and expansion. The clubhouse aims to increase its membership and expand its services to reach more individuals in need. This includes developing our employment and education programs, providing laundry facilities and showering services, enhancing existing core services, and building partnerships with other organizations. By continuously evolving and adapting to the needs of its members, the clubhouse strives to make a lasting impact on the community and improve the lives of individuals with mental health conditions.

Whatcom Clubhouse is a fundamental community resource that provides essential support to individuals with mental health conditions. By offering a wide range of services and fostering a sense of community, supporting and educating all about recovery, the clubhouse empowers its members to lead fulfilling lives. The impact of Whatcom Clubhouse extends beyond its members, as it promotes understanding, education and acceptance of mental health conditions within the broader community. Through its dedication to ending social and economic isolation, Whatcom Clubhouse is making a significant difference in the lives of those it serves.

Membership at Whatcom Clubhouse is open to adults in Whatcom County with a mental health diagnosis. The clubhouse operates on a voluntary basis, allowing members to participate as often or as infrequently as they wish. Membership is free, thanks to funding from Peace- Health, Whatcom Community Foundation, Health Care Authority of Washington and private donations.

The impact of the Whatcom Clubhouse can be seen in the success stories of its members. Many individuals have found renewed hope and purpose through the clubhouse’s programs and services. For example, one member shared how the clubhouse helped them get housing after 11 years of being homeless, another member says the clubhouse has helped them find friends and feel less isolated.

For more information about Whatcom Clubhouse and how you can support their mission, visit their website: whatcomclubhouse. org.

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Evan Mulligan began with Whatcom Clubhouse on their board of directors in 2023. He has since joined Whatcom Clubhouse staff as an interim executive director, and most recently transitioned to the role of employment specialist. Evan’s 2025 goal is to leverage his experience and passion for community development in order to build and enhance the member employment program and create meaningful opportunities for members.

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