A three-decade-old clubhouse empowers and gives purpose to central Albertans living with mental illness, the legislature heard last week.
Jennifer Johnson, the UCP member for Lacombe-Ponoka, called the Rising Sun Clubhouse Society “a remarkable organization” that harnesses the efforts of its 150 members to provide important community services.
Based in Ponoka, the clubhouse founded in 1994 “has provided a safe, welcoming and empowering space, where individuals can find purpose, dignity and belonging,” Johnson said on the last day of the Alberta legislature’s spring sitting.
Because it’s operated by members, the clubhouse puts lived experiences “at the heart of everything” it does, she said.
Members participate in activities that include preparing healthy meals, maintaining the clubhouse and operating recycling services for businesses.
A blue box and cardboard recycling program employs seven members and serves the town and surrounding area.
Fostering community spirit and giving back to others, members prepare and serve free lunches.
In partnership with the province and the Canadian Clubhouse Coalition, the clubhouse supports transitional housing through its halfway house program, helping residents safely reintegrate into the community. And it also facilitates weekly wellness groups for members.
“Their mission is clear and powerful: to help individuals live independently, build confidence and feel connected to their community,” Johnson said. “The clubhouse is built on the belief that every person has potential. It builds essential life skills and offers opportunities for social, recreational and work-related engagement.”
Membership includes people living with mental illness, physical disabilities or learning disabilities, and those recovering from addiction.
“The clubhouse is a beacon of hope and support,” concluded Johnson.
Ponoka is also home to Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury, which has been part of the community for more than 110 years.
In 2011, its 100th anniversary year, the 330-bed hospital employed more than 1,000 staff and treated more than 1,500 patients a year, an Alberta Health Services news release said.
May 5-11 was Mental Health Week in Canada, promoted by the Canadian Mental Health Association under the theme Unmasking Mental Health.
