I’ve been a member at the Clubhouse since I was 23 in 2003. At that time, I identified as gay. I felt so welcomed by all the members right away. I have always enjoyed interacting with everyone here. I’ve always been what you would call a social butterfly. I’ve always had friends here. I used to be a big eater, so I looked forward to the lunches every day. The variety of foods has been amazing. Over the years, we have had several cooks, but TwoFeathers has been my favorite. Everything is so healthy compared to what it was before. We have an activity once a month. If I had to pick two of my favorite activities, they would be: dinner out and karaoke/dance party.
I love that the Clubhouse is into diversity. We now have a lot of members that are part of the LGBTQIA community. A lot more than before. So, there are several members that I relate to a lot. The staff have always been very professional and friendly. When I started having trouble with hearing voices when I was 29, they were always supportive and would sit with me until the crisis team would arrive to take me to CRC or the hospital. I now identify as TS and really always did but was afraid of hormone treatments and was unaware of how much of a woman I always was. The Clubhouse has been accepting towards my ultra-femininity. I have changed over the years. I still have a lot to work on when interacting with others, but I’ve become more reserved and polite. But also, more nervous and self-conscious of what I say or do and act while here. At times, I become depressed or sad, but I feel that I get the proper support and love from the staff and my friends here. I recommend Our Place Clubhouse to anyone who is recovering from an SMI and anyone who wants a safe place to belong.
