I became a member of NorthStar Clubhouse at the reccommendation of my primary physician in 2013. I found the NorthStar members and staff were warm, friendly and supportive. I began to spend more and more time there, eventually spending 5 hours a day, 4 days a week, working on what was my choice of possible work activities--that of helping other members get back to work, that want to get a job. I found out about resources for myself at NorthStar and eventually used them to get back to work myself. (Since I am a significantly older worker that was somewhat remarkable.) One of the most important benefits of the time I spent helping other members was, I was--when I was ready--able to get an excellent work reference from NorthStar staff that was instrumental in gaining that job. (I am still working at that job.) If I had not had the opportunity to be a part of NorthStar Clubhouse I would probably not have been able to have the high quality of life I have today. Over the last 5 years I have observed that NorthStar Clubhouse is a remarkable, naturally occuring, free community resource where individuals with mental health challenges are able to rehabilitate themselves when, and in whatever way they need and want to.
There is no place like NorthStar. I felt accepted for who I was as soon as I came in. Everyone with mental health challenges has a different story and goals which are respected. It's understood that you are in community where there is an opportunity to socialize and learn from one another, as well as to be part of different activities regarding employment, operation of the non-profit, or food and nutrition. Members of the Clubhouse prepare and serve a delicious healthy lunch every day. People can also help run the thrift store on the premises, The Next R. I like that this is useful work in its own right as well as a stepping stone to obtain or return to employment in the community if that is what you want. Since becoming a NorthStar member I have found the next step in my own employment which was eluding me.
NorthStar helped me build my self-esteem and drive to find employment and stable housing. Awesome peers there!
When I started attending NorthStar Clubhouse, I wasn't sure I'd fit in. I felt awkward and nervous. It didn't take long for those feelings to go away because most everyone there was friendly & welcoming. People went out of their way to include me in activities. I was invited to join a couple of work units and did projects and tasks with the Employment and Operations team for a long time and then started helping out with the Wellness team. I've made a lot of friends there also, so if you are feeling isolated and alone, check out NorthStar Clubhouse; you will certainly feel better.
NorthStar Clubhouse (NS) was a cornerstone to my recovery after having mental health crisis in the Fall of 2010. NS was a safe, stress-free, supportive and productive environment that focused on the strengths and talents and abilities of its members which was so wonderful at a time when I was so vulnerable. Slowly, I was able to regain my mental health and confidence. I've meet amazing people at NS and made several dear friends. For years, I have been stable and thriving in my life and out in the community. I continue to participate at NS as a proud lifetime member. I also was voted in to be a member of the NorthStar Advisory Board for a year. I will be forever grateful to the numerous NS members and staff who were so important in helping me to regain my mental health. They continue to lift my spirits whenever I'm there. NorthStar Clubhouse is a sanctuary for adults with mental health challenges to grow and thrive.
This is a great atmosphere to be around people who care while experiencing any type of MH issues. It is also an excellent place to gain work experience when one has been out of the workforce for any length of time. Staff are understanding and it is a quiet place to work too.
I love this club house. It's really fun and energetic Place to go People are fun to be around Staff courteous helpful...
NorthStar Clubhouse has been a refuge in my mental health stabilization and a source of hope. It exceeds my initial expectations. I am new member and look forward to working at the clubhouse. It gives me a place to go, things to do, great people to spend the day with and the opportunity is also there for vocational assistance. Being a part of the clubhouse has helped improve my depression and anxiety, self-esteem, confidence and social anxiety. It has given life a new meaning. By being a working clubhouse, I have practiced old skills and new ones. My depression and anxiety have improved as well as my social anxiety. I even am preparing for return to work opportunities and working with the vocational team. I recommend visiting the Clubhouse whether your a professional or interested in membership!
NorthStar club house has improved my self worth and out look on life. I am grateful for the skills and new ability's I've gained through volunteering at NorthStar they will really help me on my life journey.
NorthStar Clubhouse is amazing!
NorthStar changed my life.
I was very isolated, depressed, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. Then I found NorthStar.
NorthStar is welcoming, accepting, and supportive. People welcome you as you are.
NorthStar is a place for adults living with mental health challenges, but it is not a clinical program. We don't ask about a person's diagnosis, there are no therapeutic interventions.
The focus is healing from being involved and being part of a community.
Drop by and visit us some time!
NorthStar is a great program. Today I as my first day attending the clubhouse and I found everyone very coutious, and helpful. The facility is very clean and well organized a great place to get support from peers.
I have had the privilege of knowing and working with the staff and members of NorthStar since it opened its doors in 2010. The impact NorthStar has on the individuals who become involved in the clubhouse work-ordered day and find a community of peers who support them in their recovery, is profound and deeply moving.
The stories of NorthStar Members say it all when it comes to the value of this organization and its instrumental work in changing people's lives. NorthStar Clubhouse has had a huge impact for both Lynne and Phil, who tell their personal tales in the below videos.
“I’ve created something quite unique in my life here.” – Member Phil Holt-Carden
“I found NorthStar and it gave me even more purpose and perspective.” – Member Lynette Anacker
https://www.youtube.com/user/NorthStarPortland
Northstar has impacted my life in the most unique way possible it has opened my eyes to be more social and not give up when I'm feeling down it's a nice place where peers can gather and share ideas. i thank Northstar for giving me all these opportunities to become a better me
Sincerely, Ma'Lik Gomes
NorthStar is a great nonprofit that help people who struggle with mental health challenges. Open to all. NorthStar helps members succeed despite their challenges. They also help build meaningful relationships with other members. NorthStar has helped me to figure out my own supports system and what I need to work on. I have also learned skills from everyone at NorthStar member and staff that I would never learn anywhere else! Thank you NorthStar for supporting/helping stopping my mental cycle!
I struggle with severe anxiety and depression. I recently went through an Intensive Outpatient program where it was suggested I go to Northstar to give my days some much needed structure. I've only been here a few days but I'm feeling optimistic about my role here and having a community of good people around as I recover from my mental health problems. They offer employment assistance too and I have already talked with someone about moving forward with a program called Vocational Rehab to help me find meaningful work in the future. Members make very healthy meals together as well that only costs $2.50.
After release from hospital due to episode of depression and extreme anxiety,
was made aware of unique agency called Northstar clubhouse, a local organization part of the larger worldwide "Clubhouse International" whose mission is to bridge the gap between
ending of mental health clinical treatment and the rest of the persons life by means of a program named "work ordered day." Structured activities to help member hone skills of the workplace, regain stamina to be able to sustain energy through a typical workday.
Members basically run the clubhouse from office duties to janitorial duties, fundraising,
culinary and wellness programs,etc. It empowers me to take control of my life to a degree not possible otherwise. There is no other program like this! It has gotten me back to a fully functioning member of society and happy with my life. Would like to see stable funding to reach out to more people in need.
I have been an active member of NorthStar clubhouse for over six months now. In that time I have found a part time job through NorthStar. I am currently working thanks to that, and I still am going to NorthStar a few times a week. I enjoy the atmosphere and helping environment that is a big part of NorthStar. I consider this clubhouse a valuable part of my life and will continue to be a part of the NorthStar team.