Part Two: Fountain House Is A Cool Place For People Dealing With Mental Health
Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff
Deep Dive
Why does Fountain House focus on developing agency and purpose for people with serious mental illnesses?
Fountain House aims to help members return to society and avoid being separated by their illness. The members themselves have a strong stake in ensuring the model works, as it allows them to live independently and find meaningful work.
What is the wage gap for people with serious mental illnesses in the job market?
People with serious mental illnesses earn about 8% less than their peers, even for the same jobs. This wage gap is exacerbated by sub-minimum wage laws that allow employers to pay disabled workers less than minimum wage.
What are the challenges faced by disabled people in the U.S. regarding employment and benefits?
Disabled people often face barriers such as sub-minimum wage laws, restrictions on savings, and losing benefits if they marry or earn above a certain threshold. These policies can trap them in poverty and limit their ability to improve their financial situation.
How does Fountain House address the issue of job scarcity for its members?
Fountain House created worker cooperatives to fill the gap left by the outsourcing of jobs like janitorial work and landscaping. These cooperatives allow members to work in supportive environments while earning competitive wages.
What is the purpose of transitional employment at Fountain House?
Transitional employment provides members with temporary jobs that are part of their therapy. These jobs are designed to help members prove they can hold a job, gain external structure, or simply provide a therapeutic break from other activities.
What is the significance of Fountain House's worker cooperatives?
Worker cooperatives empower members by giving them ownership and decision-making power in their workplaces. This model helps develop a sense of agency and purpose, which is central to the Clubhouse philosophy.
What is the role of Fountain House Farm in the Clubhouse model?
Fountain House Farm is a 477-acre farm where members can volunteer to grow food, care for animals, and participate in community activities. It provides a therapeutic environment and helps members reconnect with nature and each other.
How does the Clubhouse model compare to traditional mental health institutions?
The Clubhouse model focuses on empowering members through work, education, and community rather than institutionalization. It emphasizes rehabilitation and integration into society, reducing the need for hospitalization and improving overall quality of life.
What are the key principles of the Clubhouse model?
The Clubhouse model emphasizes voluntary membership, equal access to opportunities, open meetings, and consensus-based decision-making. It also ensures that job placements pay prevailing wages and that members have a say in governance and policy.
How does the Clubhouse model contribute to reducing healthcare costs?
Studies show that Clubhouse members experience fewer psychiatric hospitalizations and have lower overall healthcare costs compared to those in partial hospitalization programs. This is due to the model's focus on community support and meaningful engagement.
- Fountain House is a place for people needing help with serious mental illnesses.
- The Clubhouse model emphasizes agency and purpose.
- Fountain House uses transitional and supported employment, and worker cooperatives.
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