The dream of a new Greater Victoria facility to serve those living with mental illness became a step closer to reality following a fundraising dinner in Saanich earlier this month.
A fundraising gala at UptownB次元官网网址檚 At the Pointe raised $600,000 to help bring a
B次元官网网址淚n all my experience as a patient in a psychiatric hospital, structuring my life, and seeing what many of my peers in my support group are needing to get back into life, this is the ticket,B次元官网网址� said Bruce Saunders, who along with his wife made a $50,000 donation to the cause. B次元官网网址淲e, in our retirement, instead of a lot travel destinations, have a burning bucket list desire to see a vibrant Clubhouse option in our city.B次元官网网址�
The gala also witnessed a $500,000 anonymous donation from an organization that sees a Clubhouse International program as the best solution for those living with mental illness.
B次元官网网址淔or years we have worked and dreamed about having a Clubhouse for our family members and loved onesB次元官网网址� said Jackie Powell, chair of . B次元官网网址淔inally we will be able to open Connections Place where people with mental illness will be accepted, embraced, and supported with all aspects of their lives. Dreams do come true.B次元官网网址�
There are now more than 300 Clubhouse facilities throughout the world, offering a rehabilitation program for those dealing with issues such as depression, bipolar and schizophrenia.
B次元官网网址淓verything is under one roof B次元官网网址� employment, education, housing, social B次元官网网址� guiding people through social inclusion to lead happy and productive lives,B次元官网网址� said Powell, who estimates $1.5 million is needed to fund the first three years of operation for the facility.
B次元官网网址淚t includes everything, the rent, staff, training, everything. It sounds like a lot of money, but when you consider what it can do, itB次元官网网址檚 worth the price.B次元官网网址�
She points to estimates that indicate mental illness costs the Greater Victoria economy $600 million annually. Acute care beds can cost up to $1,500 a day, and on average, 68 patients are readmitted to psychiatric emergency services within 28 days.
B次元官网网址淧athways has a societal return on investment of 14 to 1. Every $1 invested in their clubhouse, it saves society $14,B次元官网网址� said Powell.
