Celebrating Club Success Lakeland and Haines City

On December 16, individuals from the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce joined Peace River Center (PRC) for a Nod to Nonprofits program and ribbon cutting of PRC’s Club Success Lakeland program. Located at 2014 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Club Success Lakeland is accredited by Clubhouse International, which includes more than 330 Clubhouses in 30 countries throughout the world. Clubhouses are recovery programs for people with mental illness and attendees are called members rather than patients or clients. The Clubhouse model is designed to mirror a mainstream day in the workplace.

“We believe that individuals living with mental illnesses can and should have the opportunity to reach their full potential in a friendly, inviting and productive environment, and that is the focus of a Clubhouse,” said Bill Gardam, CEO of PRC.

Clubhouse provides opportunities for work, wellness and socialization. Clubhouse members learn responsibility, develop self-esteem, and learn to interact professionally. Members are responsible for using their abilities to help others and build relationships while working closely with staff and colleagues. The Clubhouse provides members with transitional employment opportunities through local community partners, guidance to secure housing, and/or continue their education. It also promotes members’ ongoing psychiatric care.

Another Ribbon Cutting Scheduled for Haines City

PRC will host another ribbon cutting and tours on Friday, December 15 at 10:30 a.m. for Club Success Haines City, 751 Scenic Hwy.

“This second Clubhouse in Haines City will provide better access to care and services for Northeast Polk County residents,” said Miranda Mills, Director of PRC’s Clubhouse programs. “Our Clubhouses provide opportunities to learn skills, have a structured day and gain employment, but most importantly, they are a place for individuals with mental illness to belong.”

The community is invited to attend the ribbon cutting and tour Club Success Haines City to meet staff and members, and learn more about services offered.

“The number of individuals impacted by mental illness is continuing to grow, especially since the advent of the COVID pandemic. That’s why it’s so important for PRC to continue to expand and grow to meet the need, especially in communities like Haines City,” said Gardam.