Executive Director: Lynelle Saunders lsaunders@racineclubhouse.org Program Director: Chris Rosin crosin@racineclubhouse.org Vocational Coordinator: Jennifer Marx jmarx@racineclubhouse.org Mentor: Amanda Greidanus agreidanus@racineclubhouse.org

Beacon Editor: Linda Jacob— Volunteer

THE BEACON Spring 2018

Published Quarterly by Racine Friendship Clubhouse

Board of Directors

President: Pat Bohon

Vice President: Jan Clum

Secretary: Gretchen Rosenke

Treasurer: Julie Feiler

Shelly Hewitt

Cherie Lyford

Jim Murphy

Amy Peters

Mary Rath

Lisa Wagner

Don Walters

Marge Webb

Donna Zabler

Fundraiser

Health and wellness is essential to everyone’s happiness and

wellbeing. Racine residents who may be at a disadvantage due to

mental health issues, addiction, low income or no insurance have

resources that can help them get back on the right track. Please

support 4 our Community on May 17th for 24 hours of giving.

Your donations will help four area non-profit agencies including

Racine Friendship Clubhouse, Focus on Community, NAMI, and

Health Care Network who have come together to generate awareness

and educate the community about resources and prevention efforts

that are available to those in need.

Please support our cause and do more in

24 beginning May 17th 4 our Community.

To Donate: On May 17th at 12 PM through May 18th at 12PM, go to the

website DoMore24Racine.org.

Select 4 our Community as the non-profit group, and make your donation online.

Thanks for your support!!!

Page 2 Spring 2018

RFC Quarterly Update

Chris Rosin, Program Director

In January, I had the privilege to spend two days learning about the daily operations of one of our

sister clubhouses, Community Corner, which is located in Wausau. The CCC (Community Corner Club-

house) currently rents a former bookstore with an open-concept layout. One enters into the reception

area to find a divider wall with a mural; the Culinary Unit is on one side, and the Business Unit on the

opposite side. They have only two units,

CCC works with the Comprehensive Community Service program like we do, and receive funding

through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. They also get county-levy funding, United Way

grants, private donations, and have an annual jazz fundraiser. They have also had a Brat Fry fundraiser.

This clubhouse also runs a sober living house in their old, two-story home clubhouse. They are under the umbrella of an

auspice agency called North Central Health Care.

CCC has an average of twenty-five members a day, so it’s comparable to the number of people who attend here. They are

open from 8-4, ending their day in the last hour with board games. They have activities until 6pm on Tuesdays and some

weekends, including a monthly outing. Staff rotates being the go-to person and opening and closing.

I observed there were many ways that their program was similar to our own, I helped in the Culinary Unit by sweeping and

taking out trash, and I went to a grocery store with a staff and member. It’s about doing things together in the work-ordered

day, side by side, as colleagues.

It was affirming to feel like we’re not alone, that we have a good clubhouse program right now, and some of the issues we

face day-to-day are normal. However, we’re always looking for ways to improve and be at our best. After visiting Wausau,

I see that Racine Friendship Clubhouse is an exemplary program!

Lynelle Saunders, Executive Director

I was able to visit two Clubhouses in March – Painting Pathways Clubhouse in Manitowoc, WI, and the

original Clubhouse, Fountain House, in New York City. What a treat!

The people at Painting Pathways Clubhouse were gracious hosts to me for two full days. I was able to

participate in their Work Ordered-Day by assisting in the Culinary Unit and where needed. They took me

through a tour and orientation process as well. Painting Pathways is located in a former bowling

alley. They have one floor with an open concept and a nice yard with a garden. Everyone was friendly

and welcoming in the Clubhouse way.

The Clubhouse concept began in 1948 in New York City at Fountain House, which received its name in reference to the

fountain on the property. They are a huge Clubhouse with hundreds of people attending daily. There are two buildings and

six Clubhouse units functioning at Fountain House. My friend, Luann Simpson, and I took a tour given by a knowledgeable

and friendly colleague. He explained the work units including: Research, Education, Welcome center, Membership, Culinary,

Communication, and Wellness. They have a cafeteria style set up for the Culinary Unit and serve lunch to hundreds from

11:30am – 1:00pm. Their Welcome Center provides tours and reach-out. They let us know how lucky we were for getting a

tour because they usually require an appointment.

It was wonderful to watch other Clubhouses in action. At both, I found a wonderful group of people in a welcoming

environment. It is awesome to feel like you are a part of something larger. I now have an even bigger Clubhouse family.

While I learned of some possible enhancements we can make at Racine Friendship Clubhouse, Inc. and will be discussing

the ideas at our April membership meeting, I honestly hope Racine Friendship Clubhouse, Inc. never finds itself too big to turn

away interested individuals. We know how difficult it can be just to come through the door and we want to be as welcoming

as possible.

The Beacon Page 3

Vocational Report Jennifer Marx,

Vocational Coordinator

Vocational Department Getting Hot with Job Search Activities

Since January, the Vocational Department has been heating up with vocational activities and support

of job ready candidates finding job leads, submitting applications, interviewing and getting hired. In

February alone, 21 applications were submitted, 9 candidates were interviewed, and 2 candidates

were hired.

To facilitate job leads for our job seekers, we created a “hot list”, highlighting the skills and job goals of several of

our candidates. Job lead suggestions are welcome; contact Jenny Marx at jmarx@racineclubhouse.org or call: (262)

636-9393.

Connie Kowalski: Dining Room Assistant/Busser/Dishwasher, Janitorial or Industrial Crew

Solid candidate is seeking a temporary or direct hire position in the Racine

Likes working with her hands

Strong work ethic, reliable, honest, always on time, courteous

Works well with others, enjoys helping people

Able to follow through on tasks without close supervision

Janitorial and dietary aide experience

Alice Walker: Retail Associate, Home Health Aide (non certified) or Animal Care Worker

Solid candidate is seeking a part time direct hire position in Racine.

Enjoys working with customers and handling merchandise, prefers behind the scenes

Creates attractive displays and is organized

Experience at Belle City Resale and Walmart

One of her strengths is: “I pick up the slack and do what needs to be done.”

Mickey Milbauer: Retail Stocker, Customer Service, dining room attendant or Animal Care Worker

Candidate is seeking light part time or temporary work in Racine; enjoys working on a team and interacting with people and

animals.

Enjoys working on a team and interacting with people and animals

Experience in grounds maintenance at the Racine Zoo

Experience in customer service at a local church food pantry

Experience in Activities support at an assisted living facility

Please contact Jenny Marx for additional information or to set appointments or interviews with these job seekers. If you are

looking to fill a position at your company, we may the perfect candidate, contact Jenny Marx to learn more. 262-636-9393

or by email to jmarx@racineclubhouse.org

Lynelle Saunders at Fountain House in New York Community Corner Clubhouse in Wausau, WI

Page 4 Spring 2018

Clubhouse Experiences

The Building Department

The Building Department is in charge of keeping the building clean and maintained to be

presentable and enjoyable for our clubhouse community. Members have developed a

cohesiveness as a team to carry out the duties of this area, which is only part of the whole in

our Work-Ordered Day. Some examples are: sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, taking boxes to

the curb, watering plants, and many other tasks. Activities in this area build life skills to

increase independence, and serve as experience for a job resume. I love seeing when

members partner together on tasks, because building relationships is a big part of the healing

power of the Work-Ordered Day. That rapport working side-by-side as colleagues has developed

into friendships outside of the clubhouse. Working towards a common goal can help one feel

empowered and connected, finding a sense of purpose and belonging. Every day, I see “Wow

Moments” of people trying new things and getting out of their comfort zone to grow and work

towards their goals. One of our members who came in recently, Mark H., now no longer needs

public benefits and is independent through his employment as a welder! Recovery is real, and

at the clubhouse, we live our mission of changing lives and inspiring hope and opportunity.

New Lockers

During the day, at the clubhouse, members need to have a safe place to store their valuables

while working. Lynelle and her husband Chris Saunders purchased these six lockers from the

former Wind Point School. We have three in the dining room and three in the front

reception/entrance area. With added locks, we can use these lockers to set aside purses,

backpacks, and other belongings. This keeps these items safe and the rooms will be less

cluttered too. Some folks said it reminds them of being back in school!

Team Pride

Clubhouse members take pride in their work and often work together as a team to get the work done. All of the depart-

ments have daily tasks that help to develop skills and to enable members to contribute to the running of the clubhouse.

The Beacon Page 5

Featured Member

New Members: Anfranee C., Timothy B., Marshall B., Karen K., and Dianna L.

Returning members—once a member, always a member: Brian S., Geoff G

A Safe Space at the Clubhouse

By Kala C.

I am originally from Waterford, WI. I moved to Racine in March this year, with my cat, Phineas.

He was very special to me. Unfortunately, he recently passed away, but now I have a new cat to

love. Some of my hobbies include: playing with my cat and buying cute things

for him, photography, psychology, talking with friends, and exploring new plac-

es/ getting out of my house. I am excited to be coming back to the Clubhouse.

I enjoy art based groups. I anticipate making new friends and expanding my

horizons to become a more productive and happier member of society. I heard about the clubhouse through

my therapist encouraging me. She wanted me to get out of the house and be around people, and have a

safe space to talk about feelings, as well as the outings. I’m also looking to find a purpose in my life. My

diagnoses are bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and anxiety. My cat is a big coping skill, as

well as being around animals, because they don’t judge you or talk back to you. I grew up around animals.

Keeping busy also helps, and the clubhouse can be a way to channel that energy.

New and Returning Members

Friendship Fun Art

Birthdays Music

Conversation Smiles

These meetings sponsored by:

Page 6 Spring 2018

Upcoming topics include:

April 18th: Making Tests Your Friend (learn how to manage anxiety

about stressful events. Perfect timing before college finals)

May 16th: New Diagnosis? Now What?

June 20th: How to Find Balance

Community

Wellness Series– open to anyone interested in learning more With the help of the All Saints Foundation, Racine Friendship Clubhouse is offering a

monthly Wellness Series

When: The 3rd Wednesday of every month, at 5:30PM—7:00 PM

Where: In 2nd floor meeting room at Dewey’s, 600 Main St, Downtown Racine

Registration Appreciated. Call Amanda at 262-822-8217

or email agreidnus@racinelubhouse,org to register, or for more information.

New at Racine Public Library

Every Wednesday 5:30 PM—7:00 PM

• Focus on different mental wellness topics . Resources

to help manage symptoms will be provided.

• Guest speaker the third Wednesday of each month.

• Opportunity to share relatable experiences and par-

ticipate in activities/discussion, make connections, and

have FUN.

Registration Appreciated. Call Amanda at 262-822-8217

or email agreidnus@racinelubhouse,org to register, or for more information.

Clubhouse Wish List

• Postage Stamps

• Bottled Water

• Ground Coffee

• Speedway or BP gas card

• Small paper plates

• Toilet paper

• Small canning jars with lids

• Forks (metal ones for lunch)

Your donated items are always appreciated and help with our daily operations.

The Beacon Page 7

Donations Financial Donations are always welcome and deeply appreciated.

Remember to include your name and address so we can properly

thank you for your kindness and generosity as well as provide you with a receipt

Donations from 12/15/17 through 2/28/18

Financial Donations:

• Julie Arens

• Jerrold and Dianne Belland

• Joel and Kathy Belland

• Nikki Benn

• Dorothy Block

• William Chesen

• Rosemary Christoph

• Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home

• Jay Drobnik

• Amanda Greidanus

• Geoff and Peg Grieveldinger

• Sue and Terry Hess

• Julie Hueller

• Linda Jacob

• Leon and Betsy Janssen

• Jeanne Kimmler

• Clement Knight & Ann Wirtz

• Diane Lange

• Cherie Lyford

• Susan Manalli

• Sally Marciniak

• Barb Mattner

• Matt Meyer

• Harold Miller

• JR Mitchell

• Anita Nielsen

• Jan Petrakis

• Bongo Praninsky

• Amy Randolph

• Chuck Redding

• Laverne Seebruck

• Noel Sheer

• Barbara Smith

• Maria Von Schrader

• Dr. Ed and Janna Waldeck

• Willard Walker

In Kind donations:

• Rose Mary Hermann: Paper Products

• Shelly Holewinski: Coffee creamers

• Linda Jacob: BINGO prizes, toilet paper

• Joan Jaskowak BINGO prizes

• Mark Miesner: Cleaning products, vacuum cleaners,

taco ingredients

• Jim Neu: Cleaning supplies, office supplies, powdered drinks,

cookies, etc.

• Geri Rannow: Groceries

• Mary Rath: BINGO prizes, coffee, bowls

• Denise Staufenbeil: Loose leaf paper, cookies, and a freezer

• Maria Von Schrader: Soda, candy, pudding

• Pat and Marge Webb: Toilet Paper, bingo, candy, napkins

• Phyliss Zelenski: BINGO prizes and coffee mugs

In Honor of:

• Barbara Bennett in honor of Judy Mayer

• Suzanne Chernik in honor of Rev Tony Larson's retirement

• Sandy Lutze in honor of daughter Lynelle

• Matt Meyer -pizza party in honor of Maria Von Schrader

• Susan Randolph in honor of Amy Randolph

• Luann Simpson in honor of RFC staff

• Ruth Ann Grayson in honor of Mary Rath on her Birthday

In Memory of:

• Susan Bohon in memory of Allan Bohon

• Clark & Cyndi Gustin in memory of Pam Gustin

• Sandy Lutze in memory of Barb Nommensen

Racine

Friendship

Clubhouse 2000—17th Street Racine, WI 53403

Phone: 262-636-9393 Fax: 262-636-9084

Email: info@racineclubhouse.org

Web: www.Racineclubhouse.org

United Way

of Racine County

Partner Provider

This institution is

an Equal

Opportunity

Provider.

Racine County Agency Provider

Social Media Connection You can find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RacineClubhouse

where we post our news and pics. Make sure you comment or “like” our posts so

we continue to show up on your newsfeed. We are also on Twitter and Instagram.

@RacineClubhouse @millennial_connection

Our Mission

Changes lives and inspires hope and opportunity to

people with a mental illness.

Our Vision

Working together to rebuild lives affected by mental illness.

Racine Friendship Clubhouse, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and improving

employment opportunities for persons recovering from serious mental illnesses such as

schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression. The clubhouse model is based on the belief

that our members are partners in their own recovery, rather than merely the passive

recipients of treatment, and that meaningful work and relationships are integral parts of their

recovery.