Dear Friends,
Today I am pleased to welcome Melissa O’ Lenick, a member of the Charlotte Clubhouse Board. Melissa, I know you are heavily involved in fundraising for the Clubhouse and we want to hear all about that. But first, share a little bit about yourself and how you have become involved with Charlotte Clubhouse.
I’ve always been someone who fights for the underdog and helps others. Most of my professional career has been focused on environmental stewardship. Then in 2022, my life changed drastically as my husband began a 2+ year battle with his mental illness. I saw first-hand the devastation that the illness can inflict on someone’s mind and body. And worst of all, the healthcare system is completely unprepared to deal with our most vulnerable in society. I saw stigma at its worst and it came from a source I wasn’t prepared for: the healthcare system itself. I had to fight for my husband, every step of the way, when his doctors had given up completely.
Today he is doing better than ever, and the Charlotte Clubhouse has played a huge role in that. It gave him not only a community, but a sense of purpose. This is something that I think many take for granted. Having a purpose. Someone with severe and persistent mental illness can struggle to find where they belong. Struggle to find their purpose. But the Clubhouse model gives them both. They deserve a place to belong.
Thank you for sharing your story, and I’m so glad your husband has found a place to belong. That is a good segue into the progress that the Charlotte Clubhouse has made towards its goal of being fully operational and in its own facility by June 30, 2026. Recently Monarch, a strong and stable 67-year-old mental health organization, has agreed to merge Charlotte Clubhouse into its operations contingent on the Clubhouse raising an agreed amount of funds. The theme of the current campaign is “A Place to Belong” and Melissa, I know you have a big part in this endeavor. Tell us more.
Phase 1 of our fundraising efforts ran during the summer months. We reached out to past donors, supporters, and smaller local businesses. Members of the Board each committed to reaching out to a minimum number of contacts. In addition, we secured a large pledge (approximately $150,000) from the state, which, together with donations, put us at almost 2/3 of our $300,000 goal.
During Phase 2, an events team is focusing on running a larger fundraising event. Details are forthcoming, so please stay tuned to our website (www.charlotteclubhouse.org). The partnership team (which I am leading) is looking into partnering with organizations and companies that support better mental health in the Charlotte area. Joining forces with other established entities assures that the unique Clubhouse model will provide proven and sustainable mental health services in Mecklenburg County long into the future.
I’m really excited and energized by this new phase and feel confident we will reach our goal!
I agree with you that it is exciting as you move closer to the final goal. While the Clubhouse is still on pause during this time, what are your greatest challenges or needs?
Our biggest need right now is raising enough money to get our members into their own space as soon as possible. Virtual weekly meetings and monthly in person gatherings are great, but our members benefit most from consistent support and the Clubhouse model of a work-ordered day. It is a real struggle right now for our members because they aren’t getting this important resource, literally “a place to belong.” So, donations in any amount will be most appreciated. You can donate here (note: donation amount does not include grants.) Checks may also be mailed to: Charlotte Clubhouse, 1235 East Blvd., Suite E #1292, Charlotte, NC. 28203.
Melissa, thank you for sharing your personal story and updating us on the Charlotte Clubhouse. To my readers I can only reiterate that the clubhouse model has a long history of changing lives interrupted by mental illness, and Charlotte has a long line of people whose lives will be transformed by this program. Give generously. You won’t regret it!
Until next time,
Linda
