Grand Opening Brings Joy
In February, we celebrated the Grand Opening of the California Clubhouse in its new location in San Mateo! Over 80 people gathered to participate in the festivities. Special speakers included Dr. Jana Spalding, Director of OCFA; Jacki Rigoni, Chief of Staff for Supervisor Corzo; Dr. Jacob Ballon, Co-Director of Stanford’s INSPIRE clinic; and Juliana Fuerbringer, founding board member. Additionally several Clubhouse members––Leslie, Albert, and Priscilla––shared their stories, highlighting how important it was to have a place where they didn’t have to talk about their mental health diagnosis––a place where they could go to engage in community and meaningful work.
Supervisor Corzo’s office presented the Clubhouse with a Commendation, “…on the opening of its newly renovated location to better serve San Mateo County residents living with mental illness. The Board extends its sincere congratulations to California Clubhouse for their commitment to providing a community structure that supports people struggling with mental illness and the people who love them, and extends its sincere wishes for continued growth and success.”
Members and staff offered tours of our new home, showing how the Hospitality and Business Units are already making use of this beautiful new space.
Member Nolan Rubenstein shared his experience working on the Hospitality Unit in preparation for the event, “I enjoyed the Open House! One of my favorite things was the food. I had the opportunity to help in the kitchen making the Crab Cornbread Muffins. My favorite dishes were the crispy prosciutto wrapped with Boursin and the 7-Up Punch. It was delicious! I also helped with a tour for former staff members, Monica and Erica. It was great seeing all the familiar faces like former staff member Ken who remembered working with me in the past. Connecting with new people and reconnecting with people I have not seen for a while was a highlight of the night!”