The United States Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association (USPRA) focuses on rehabilitation for people who have a mental illness/psychiatric diagnosis. In New York City there is a clubhouse called “Fountain House.”  One way USPRA operates in Michigan is through the Michigan clubhouse system.







Michigan clubhouse members are people who have lived or are living with a mental illness/psychiatric diagnosis. Clubhouses typically have only a small number of staff. They are considered to be jointly run and managed by clubhouse members alongside staff. Members are a large part of the operation and upkeep of the clubhouse, and make decisions whenever possible. Clubhouse members are always welcome to lead member meetings, unit meetings and sections.







One of the main goals of a clubhouse is to help provide programs that help people with a mental illness/psychiatric diagnosis to learn to better cope, and live a lifestyle on their own terms. Clubhouse members choose their employment, education and living situations. In the clubhouse there is a work-ordered day that members attend. Members pick a work unit to work in. In this way they learn job and employment skills. Typical work units are: maintenance, business, kitchen, membership, etc. Most clubhouses put out a monthly newsletter to let members and the community know what is happening in the clubhouse.







Clubhouses also provide recreational activities whenever possible. Members provide a support system to each other. In doing things they find they are able to help others as well as themselves, providing a strong peer mentoring experience as well as general information to other members.







Clubhouse membership is a lifetime membership. This allows clubhouse members the necessary time to achieve goals without the stress of deadlines. Many clubhouses also provide assistance in finding housing, education, or employment that suit the needs of the members and the lifestyles they choose. 







Michigan USPRA is dedicated to promoting, supporting, and strengthening community-oriented rehabilitation services and resources for persons with a psychiatric disability. Michigan USPRA clubs also provide linking and referrals to local treatment programs and residential programs. The Michigan Clubhouse system is active statewide.







Click here for the Michigan Clubhouse Directory.







Click here for the Michigan Association of Clubhouses.







Click here for the International Center for Clubhouse Development.