What is Infinite Horizons Clubhouse?
Clubhouses help provide continuity of care post-hospitalization for adults recovering from serious mental health challenges. They help people recover their lives and find independence through a restorative community without the stigma of mental illness. Clubhouse International has helped over 300 accredited clubhouses in 30 countries build support through their model.
Who will Benefit by Attending Infinite Horizons?
Members have had their lives disrupted by mental health challenges and are seeking a non-clinical supportive pathway to live a purpose-driven life and be contributing members of society. Members receive guidance and opportunities that complement their skills through a plan that helps them transition towards increased independence.
Where will Our Clubhouse Call Home?
Currently, only one accredited Clubhouse thrives in Connecticut called Bridge House near the Southeastern shoreline. This leaves a geographical gap in services for the central, northeastern and parts of northwestern CT.
When will Our Clubhouse Open?
As soon as we can (with your help!)
Learn more about the existing Clubhouses in Connecticut and their success stories.
Bridge House Clubhouse
Bridgeport, CT
Why now?
Research has shown (view evidence-based publications) that there are fewer hospital admissions and a reduction in suicidal ideation among those who are Clubhouse members. Suicide is one of the top causes of loss of life among young people in the United States. Clubhouses help provide a community of support.
Fewer hospital admissions results in lower costs for health services. Members lives are improved as they begin to work toward and reach their vocational, financial, and social goals. The benefits to the wider community are evident with a larger number of employed individuals and an increased tax base.
Our Story
Based on lived experiences, we were motivated to learn about how to support and help people struggling to navigate the challenges of their experiences. We began as a grassroots committee to establish a place for mental health support based on the Clubhouse International model. In 2016, three members of our committee traveled to Indiana for the Clubhouse International training program for new startup Clubhouses.
Since then, we have been helped by Pro-Bono Partnership to become a 501c3, mentored by Clubhouse International, formed an official Board of Directors with bylaws, and began the process of establishing an accredited Clubhouse in Hartford County.
We have attended Legislative Forums organized by NAMI CT and met with several CT State Legislators to acquaint them with our mission. We are reaching out to mental health care leaders, therapists, clinics, etc. to provide information about the Clubhouse model. We’ve given many tours to an accredited Clubhouse in Torrington, CT to highlight the benefits for the members. We are actively fundraising in order to hire an Executive Director, Staff and a place to begin our Clubhouse.
Only one Clubhouse remains in Connecticut, but it is not geographically accessible to residents of greater Hartford. While there are other mental health recovery facilities in greater Hartford, there are none that adhere to the rigorous standards of accreditation and philosophy of healing inherent in the Clubhouse International model.
Our goal is to be able to offer experiences that have been proven to result in positive outcomes for many members. Click here to view a selection of evidence-based publications of recent research proving the demonstrated success of the clubhouse model.
This is just the beginning of our story. Our Board has more to do on the journey. If you’re interested in learning more about joining us please contact us!
“I think every person struggling with mental health challenges deserves a chance to live their best life. I believe that the Clubhouse model is one valuable path offered to help people live that best life of work, school, housing, mental health resources and lasting friendships. Greater Hartford would really benefit from an accredited Clubhouse such as Infinite Horizons.” (Read Brad’s complete testimonial here)
— Brad M., a person who experienced the benefits of a Clubhouse Firsthand
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“The Clubhouse International organization seems like such a positive force where we (the diagnosed) are lacking so greatly in people who believe in us, stand up WITH us and support the cause. The cause being that we are able, in many ways, not all the time, but that we shouldn’t be disregarded. Nor should it be so hard to find and receive assistance when we need it to survive. And the social aspect is so important to those of us who are isolated, lonely, ashamed of who we “are” or how we will be perceived.”
— Collette, A person who would have benefited from infinite horizons clubhouse being open when she needed help