Jamal S., a 37-year-old lifelong Massachusetts resident, faced significant personal challenges when he became a member of Neponset River House two years ago. He was managing bipolar disorder, navigating the arduous process of rejoining the workforce, and his long-term girlfriend had tragically passed away. Though initially apprehensive amid a sea of unfamiliar faces, he found unexpected comfort in the Clubhouse’s warm, stigma-free community.
Driven by his strong desire to find employment, Jamal immersed himself in the Clubhouse’s Work-Ordered Day. Managing the snack bar and chatting with other members helped him forge meaningful connections and learn new skills transferable to a variety of career paths. Through the Clubhouse’s employment program, he received personalized job coaching and secured a transitional employment position as a maintenance staffer at Norwood Housing, where he earned praise for his work ethic and keen attention to detail. After Jamal successfully completed this nine-month supported employment opportunity, Neponset River House helped him seamlessly transition to a full-time job at Norwood’s Big Y supermarket. Jamal’s role bagging groceries and managing carriage returns has provided him with not just employment but a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie.
The Clubhouse changed my life 100%. I’m not as angry as I was before, and I feel a lot calmer. This is my peace zone.
The Clubhouse’s comprehensive support system has also empowered Jamal to properly process difficult life experiences. When another member learned about Jamal’s late girlfriend, his genuine support and kindness reinforced Neponset River House as Jamal’s emotional sanctuary while demonstrating the collective resilience of the Clubhouse community. Without the solidarity Jamal feels with his fellow members and the coping techniques he learned at the Clubhouse, he’s not sure how he would have managed this devastating loss.
Looking forward, Jamal remains optimistic. He’s learned new emotional regulation strategies and embraced the value of openly discussing his feelings. His advice—”stay positive and true to your dreams”—reflects the newfound hope he’s cultivated at Neponset River House.
Riverside’s Clubhouses are inclusive communities of healing and hope for individuals managing mental health challenges. These specialized support environments provide members with opportunities for social connection, employment, skill development, and personal growth.
