Members and staff from the Academy were instrumental in Conference preparation as well as workshops. Our Arts & Communications Team provided lanyards, printed nametags and programs for the event. The new FCC logo was also designed by the Academy. At the Conference, John Robinson and Garrett Laue of our Multimedia Team, unveiled the new FCC website, designed and managed at the Academy. William McKeever and Rima Ghalieh discussed recent achievements and future advocacy efforts in Tallahassee.

The Academy is one of seven accredited mental health Clubhouse programs in Florida, with five additional Clubhouse programs on the track to accreditation. The vision of the FCC is to establish an accredited Clubhouse program in every one of Florida’s 67 counties!

Hope Clubhouse of Southwest Florida incorporated in 2007 and opened its doors in 2010. Serving approximately 250 members each year, Hope Clubhouse holds a three-year accreditation with Clubhouse International. Over the years, Hope Clubhouse has built a strong employment program, as evidenced by the high number of Transitional, Supported and Independent Employment placements for its members.

We are fortunate to have clubhouse colleagues nearby in Fort Myers, and look forward to future opportunities to share experiences.  We learned a lot from our visit and appreciate the warm hospitality of Hope Clubhouse members and staff.