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Welcome to the Clubhouse!

Where We Grow Together

Our Clubhouse Model

The Clubhouse model supports all individuals with mental illness to rejoin society and maintain their place in it; it builds on people's strengths and provides mutual support from their peers.

The strength of our clubhouse model is built on a foundation of culture and community. The culture is dynamic, fun, engaging, and fluid, and the staff that chooses to come here are truly amazing. The relationships built amongst the members and between the staff allow us to capitalize on one another's strengths, working together side by side and as a team.

Our Clubhouses

Options Clubhouse

82 Brigham St, Marlborough, MA 01752

Discover Options Clubhouse

Compass Clubhouse

356 Broad St, Fitchburg, MA 01420

Discover Compass Clubhouse

“It's okay to not be okay.”

JC Monahan

2022 Hope Award Recipient
NBC Boston Newscaster

Watch JC's Hope Series Episode

Our Mental Health Community

Our goal is to ensure every young adult we touch through our Clubhouse program, receive the skills and support necessary to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Recovery from mental illness is possible. We assist individuals as they work to reclaim a sense of self-worth, self-sufficiency and can rediscover their natural abilities and talents. We do this through a collaborative approach, offering employment, education, housing and recovery opportunities that are critical to one’s success.

As our membership reaches retirement age, (55+) we strongly believe members should retire with dignity. The Clubhouse has adapted programming through our Silver Project to identify those members’ changing needs including the issues of increased isolation, physical illness and decline, new housing requirements, benefits management, and end-of-life support.
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When a parent is struggling with a mental health issue, their relationships with family members may be damaged or strained. Family support programs can make all of the difference in their recovery journey. Our clubhouses offer family coaching that educates family members on mental health, assists in navigating the state mental health system, and facilitates parenting support groups, all of which can benefit the family as a whole.

At Employment Options, we pride ourselves on having a strong program that makes a difference in our members' lives on a daily basis. We hold weekly meetings for members of the LBGTQ+ community and their Allies to develop programming that is both inviting and inclusive. We also provide community linkages for members that identify with the LBGTQ+ community.

Supporting Our Aging Population

The Silver Project

As our membership reaches retirement age, (55+) we strongly believe members should retire with dignity. The Clubhouse has adapted programming through our Silver Project to identify those members’ changing needs including the issues of increased isolation, physical illness and decline, new housing requirements, benefits management, and end-of-life support. We collaborate with other community agencies such as Baypath Elder Services, VA Services of Worcester, local senior centers, and member’s natural supports. We make outreach a priority for those members who have moved into assisted living facilities or nursing homes and call, visit and send cards regularly. We ensure that our growing elderly population has access/training to technology to join our hybrid programming and will do all the setup and training to make sure they can connect. We also have a wellness component to the Silver Project where we have outings, luncheons, walks in the park, and social gatherings to keep members active and connected. Our Silver Project has become quite popular and successful and will continue to evolve as needs change.

FAQs

Who makes up Employment Options membership?

We are a welcoming and inclusive community made up of those 18 years or older including: all races, sexual orientation, gender identity and religions.

I don't drive. Is transportation available?

We offer free transportation to the surrounding towns of Marlborough, Hudson, Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Hopkinton, Framingham, Natick, Ashland.
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We are located at 82 Brigham Street Marlborough, MA. Many of our members drive, or are driven by family members. Also, there are public transportation bus routes that pass by the end of our street. Members access Dial A Ride which is a low cost option for transportation.

How much does the clubhouse program cost?

Our program is fully funded by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health. To access our program you must have a mental health diagnosis that is documented by a licensed social worker or therapist.

To apply for our program, download our member application at the top of this page.

I already have mental health supports, why do I need more?

We differ from other programs, because we are not clinical based. There are no groups or counseling sessions here because we assist members in developing social relationships and community connections. The Clubhouse Model provides resources and opportunities for recovery, such as gainful employment, education, wellness, socialization and so much more.

How often do I have to come into the clubhouse?

Membership and participation at our Clubhouse is completely voluntary. Each individual decides how much and how often they wish to be involved.

I don’t feel like I am ready to work, can I still participate?

You do not have to feel ready to go back to work. All work in the Clubhouse is designed to help members regain self worth, purpose and confidence; it is not intended to be job specific training.

What is the Work-Ordered Day?

The work-ordered day engages members and staff together, side-by-side, in the running of the Clubhouse. The Clubhouse focuses on strengths, talents and abilities. The work done in the Clubhouse is exclusively the work generated by the Clubhouse in the operation and enhancement of the Clubhouse community. Members are not paid for any Clubhouse work, nor are there any artificial reward systems.

What about COVID Protocols?...

We have been following all of the CDC and state regulations. We also understand that some people are not fully ready to engage in public settings, so all of our programming is offered virtually on ZOOM and Facebook Live.

What if I can't come in to the Clubhouse?

We have an excellent outreach program, with staff dedicated to staying in touch with those members unable to come into the club. This includes cards, text, email, phone calls and visits at your home.

Are meals served?

We offer breakfast for $1.00 and lunch for $2.00. There is always a hot and cold option. We serve coffee through-out the day and sell snacks and drinks from our café. You are more than welcome to bring your own food or drinks as well.

Still have questions? Contact Us