Clubhouse Program
Belonging. Hope. Purpose.
WHEN YOU JOIN OUR CLUBHOUSE, YOU ARE NO LONGER A PATIENT, CLIENT OR CONSUMER, YOU ARE A MEMBER.
Our Clubhouse is the heart and soul of Independence Center. It fulfills the basic human need of being wanted, needed, and expected. Members come voluntarily to work, set goals, learn life skills, improve their health, and much more. This is an accepting, supportive community where members build close relationships with each other and staff, and experience a purpose-filled day. Members take an active role in their own progress, working side-by-side with staff and other members. Those who are able, get on a path to meaningful employment.
Independence Center’s Clubhouse is accredited by Clubhouse International, a globally recognized leader in changing the world of mental health. Independence Center is one of the strongest Clubhouses in the network of more than 370 worldwide and serves as one of only twelve training bases for this evidence-based model.
Philosophy
The Clubhouse model is based on a philosophy containing four basic tenets:
- Everyone needs to feel connected to a community; thus the notion of membership is important.
- Everyone needs to know that they are expected someplace on a daily basis.
- Everyone needs to feel needed; that one’s presence is important to others.
- Everyone needs to believe there is at least one place on the planet where s/he is truly wanted.
At Independence Center, we believe:
- Work helps define who we are. Everyone deserves a chance at securing meaningful employment.
- Everyone deserves to live in an affordable, decent home.
- Adults should be engaged in age-appropriate social opportunities.
Since 1981, this philosophy has stood at the core of Independence Center’s wide array of programs, which now includes rehabilitation services, housing and residential supports, case management, outpatient psychiatric care and medication management, employment services, a wellness program, education, daily meals and social opportunities.
Clubhouse International
Clubhouse International was established in 1994 and serves to promote the development and strengthening of clubhouses. Clubhouse International oversees the creation and evolution of standards, facilitates and assures the quality of training, consultation, certification, research and advocacy, and provides effective communication and dissemination of information. Independence Center is an accredited member of Clubhouse International. To learn more, visit the Clubhouse International web site. Click here for a list of Clubhouse Standards.
Wellness Program
Independence Center has created the first on-site wellness program specifically designed for people with mental illnesses. Because people with mental illnesses are at greater risk for diabetes and coronary artery disease, Independence Center created a program that provides health screening, wellness activities and follow-up for the members of Independence Center. It has both educational and motivational components.
Individualized wellness plans include the following:
- Weight resistance training
- Cardiovascular exercise equipment
- Participation in biking and walking clubs
- Classes in yoga and stretching
- Smoking cessation programs
- Nutritional and health education
The exercise facility at Independence Center is the anchor for our wellness programs. We offer cardio machines, weight training equipment, a studio for daily fitness classes, and onsite locker rooms with showers.
Questions about our Wellness Center? Contact Healthcare Home below:
Healthcare Home at Independence Center
4245 Forest Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108
Phone: 314.881.5885
Free Daily Access to our Fitness Center
Independence Center has a fully-equipped fitness center in our Clubhouse that’s open five days a week for members. This is an accepting, highly encouraging environment where members have access to weight and cardio training, yoga, and a variety of fitness classes. Quality health care requires more than treating health conditions. We believe that by creating a culture of wellness, we inspire healthy lifestyles. We work with you to achieve your wellness goals and encourage a lifetime of wellness.
“WE ENCOURAGE EVERY MEMBER TO MAKE TIME FOR POSITIVE HEALTH AND FITNESS, AND IT’S MUCH EASIER TO DO WHEN YOU’RE WORKING WITHIN A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY.”
We’re Here for You
If you have any questions about your Healthcare Home and how we can help, please contact your Community Support Specialist or call 314.881.5885
Healthcare Home at
Independence Center
4245 Forest Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108
*Missouri Healthcare Home is a voluntary program through MO HealthNet and is accredited by CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities).
AFTER HOURS Crisis Hotline: Call or Text 988