Fountain House- Fantastic Midtown Institution

I cannot say enough good words about Fountain House, the wonderful Manhattan clubhouse for people with emtional and some physical challenges.

I was able to learn computers through Fountain House, and get a scholarship for an Associate's Degree in Advertising Illustration and Design through the Education Unit, of which I just updated my membership....

From the internet:

Fountain House is a professional self-help program located in New York city, operated by men and women recovering from major mental illness in collaboration with a professional staff (must have a four degree in any major). The Fountain House uses the Clubhouse Model of Psychosocial Rehabilitation - it was, in fact, the first such program, first established in New York City in 1948. Mr. John Beard was the director that had redical experience with people with mental illness able to work and work for pay.There are now around 400 Clubhouses internationally. The emphasis at Fountain House is on relationships – member to member, and member to staff. At a clubhouse the Members engage with each other to regain their productivity and self-confidence, resume their lives, and re-enter society. The clubhouse environment also allows its members to learn self-advocacy, and fight the stigma that often separates them from their neighbors. Fountain House's programs and partnerships originate in its units: education, employment, research, clerical, culinary, wellness, etc. Each unit is "home base" for a number of members and staff, who work together to develop and operate a particular activity. In each unit, as well, staff members provide community support for members, to ensure that they receive the benefits and services they need, from both Fountain House and beyond. In 2005, Fountain House was among 406 New York City arts and social service institutions to receive part of a $20 million grant from the Carnegie Corporation, which was made possible through a donation by New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg.

THEABOVE is a rather dry description of this beautiful place....an internet link is at

http://www.fountainhouse.org/

Where you will find a great website.