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For 12 years, the Key Clubhouse of South Florida has been assisting people whose lives have been disrupted by mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and major depression with the opportunity to recover meaningful and productive lives.
The individuals who participate in the Key Clubhouse program are referred to as members. The Clubhouse is run by the members and staff working together as equals. Among the many services it offers members is a recovery through work program that assists them to reintegrate into the workplace and community.
During the last two years, the Key Clubhouse has been instrumental in placing more than 100 of its members in jobs throughout South Florida. The Clubhouse’s Employment Unit develops partnerships for Transitional and Supported Employment positions for its members.
“Our primary focus is to assist members in finding meaningful work, education, access to housing and friendships,” said Debra Webb, executive director. “The goal is to provide a high quality of life for all members.”
Through a partnership with Carrfour Supportive Housing, the Clubhouse moved into a new 5,000 sq. ft. space in July 2021 on the bottom floor of Northside Commons, a supportive housing complex in Miami built primarily for low-income individuals living with mental illness. Currently, about 45 members are living in apartment units at the Northside Commons.
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Zina, 31, has been a member of the Key Clubhouse for nearly three years. She was born in Miami and raised in Fort Lauderdale and now calls Northside Commons home. Diagnosed with bipolar, anxiety and schizoaffective disorder in her mid-20s, Zina is currently being trained by the Key Clubhouse’s Employment Unit.
As part of her recovery program, she volunteers in the Clubhouse Communications Unit and assists in writing the monthly newsletter. She loves to write.
“I am so appreciative to the Key Clubhouse for teaching me work skills that will help me in life,” said Zina. “I hope to one day own my business. In my time at the Key Clubhouse, I’ve never been judged for my mental disability.”
Robert, 31, was born and raised in Coral Gables and has been a member of the Key Clubhouse for five months. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression at the age of 15.
He enjoys the friendly atmosphere and social aspects that come with being a member of the Key Clubhouse such as a visit to the Perez Art Museum or a night out bowling. He added that there’s nothing superficial about the Key Clubhouse.
“The people who work at the Clubhouse are beyond positive,” said Robert. “They want to get to know who you are as a person and were extremely helpful in finding me a great job. One day soon I hope to be able to give back to society and help people as well.”
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He now works at Segal Trials in Miami Lakes. Among the companies providing employment to members of the Key Clubhouse of South Florida are Career Source South Florida, Sonesta Hotel, Levy Restaurant Compass Group (FTX Arena & Marlins Park), Centerplate (Hard Rock Stadium), Books & Books, Publix Supermarket and Segal Trials.
“We thank the many companies that offer jobs to our members,” said Webb. “Placing them in a work setting instills a sense of pride and responsibility which helps them to achieve their full potential. Their talents and abilities are recognized and encouraged.”
Key Clubhouse of South Florida is an accredited member of Clubhouse International, a worldwide network of more than 320 mental health Clubhouses on six continents.
Originally founded in 2010 by a group of family members and a young woman with bipolar disorder, the Key Clubhouse fills a significant gap in the mental health system by offering opportunities for meaningful work, education, friendships and access to housing in a supportive, caring and dignified community setting.
Key Clubhouse of South Florida is funded by the Thriving Mind/Department of Children and Families, Miami-Dade County, several foundations and numerous generous contributors.
For information on The Key Clubhouse of South Florida, visit www.keyclubhouse.org. Those companies wishing to provide employment opportunities to Clubhouse members should call 305-693-3508.
