Easterseals Michigan’s Dreams Unlimited Clubhouse celebrates 30 years

ROYAL OAK — On June 21, an open house highlighted the talents of adults in the mental health rehabilitation program and celebrated 30 years of community service with complimentary ice cream and door prizes at Easterseals Michigan’s Dreams Unlimited Clubhouse, 1222 Catalpa Drive.

Since 1992, staff at Dreams Unlimited Clubhouse have helped more than 1,000 adults with serious mental illness develop the skills necessary to be successful in daily life.

The nonprofit facilitates avenues for clubhouse members to voluntarily participate in the “work-ordered day” and gain myriad benefits, including preparing for workforce reentry or other meaningful activities; identifying talents and abilities; enhancing work and education skills; building self-confidence; feeling a sense of purpose; joining a community of personal and professional support; and building relationships.

“We are very fortunate to be able to partner with the Clubhouse members in their journey to gainful employment,” Easterseals Michigan President and CEO Brent Wirth said in a prepared statement. “It’s the commitment of our staff, volunteers and the Clubhouse members that supports its success. With 30 years going strong, and nearly 1,000 people assisted, the care and passion shines through.”

Clubhouse members can participate in one or more work units essential to the functioning of the organization; decision-making related to the operation of the clubhouse; and regular meetings to address items such as daily tasks, activities, menu planning and program policies.

Irvin Weatherspoon has served as manager of Dreams Unlimited Clubhouse for approximately 10 months. He said he enjoys the different perspective on mental health — instead of seeing clients for one-on-one or group therapy, the clubhouse offers a daily avenue of up to eight hours to hone skills.

“It’s so cool to see the progress in someone’s recovery,” Weatherspoon said. “When I got here, it just was a different dynamic and feel. It was a good feeling, and a family-oriented and welcoming model.”

He said the “vibe is awesome,” “people are excited to see each other,” and staff is excited for members to be at the clubhouse; when they are absent, he said, they are missed.

“They get here with whatever mode of transportation,” he said.

Some take a bus, while others receive transportation from a group home, and others drive or walk themselves.

In order to become a member, individuals must self-refer or be referred by another entity and include a letter of eligibility filled out by a psychiatrist or medical provider who is treating the individual for a mental illness.

While some members have a concurrent diagnosis of autism, Weatherspoon said the most common primary mental illness diagnoses include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, and personality disorders.

He said the average daily in-person attendance varies between five and 12 individuals, which is down significantly from an average of 45 active members prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, he said, the clubhouse continues to operate on a hybrid model with virtual offerings.

“(The June 21 open house) was amazing from beginning to end. We had been planning it since December,” he said. “It was really good just to see individuals having a good time and members giving tours, and another clubhouse came for the celebration.”

The talent show featured a range of abilities, from musicians to artists and beyond.

For more information about Easterseals Michigan’s services or Dreams Unlimited Clubhouse, call (800) 75-SEALS or visit eastersealsmichigan.com.