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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   HERO House NW Unveils New Branding and Consolidated Clubhouse Names   Bellevue, WA August 1, 2024 - HERO House NW is excited to announce the release of our annual IMPACT Report, featuring our newly updated branding and the consolidation of our Clubhouse names. This rebranding effort aligns with our mission to provide clarity and unity within our organization, as well as to reflect our network partnership with Fountain House United.  As part of our rebranding, we have renamed our three Clubhouses HERO House Bellevue, HERO House Seattle, and HERO House Everett. This change aims to clearly communicate that all three Clubhouses are integral parts of HERO House NW, which serves as the administrative and advocating body for these vital community resources. These names honor our roots, reflecting the name of our first Clubhouse, and reinforcing the cohesive identity we strive to maintain across all locations.  Earlier this year, HERO House NW proudly became a part of the Fountain House United national network. This partnership enhances our ability to support individuals living with mental illness by connecting us with a broader movement dedicated to advancing mental health support and solutions. Our new logo lockups now prominently feature both the HERO House NW and Fountain House United logos, symbolizing this powerful collaboration.  Mission of HERO House NW and Our Clubhouses   HERO House NW is committed to providing Hope, Empowerment, Relationships, and Opportunities to individuals living with mental illness. Our mission is to champion mental health recovery and awareness by facilitating Clubhouse expansion. We do this by creating inclusive communities where members can achieve their potential through meaningful work and social connections in our three Clubhouse locations:  HERO House Seattle :  Located in Seattle, this Clubhouse offers a supportive environment where people whose lives have been disrupted by mental illness have the opportunity to recover meaning, purpose, and dignity through work and community. Learn more at www.seattleclubhouse.org .  HERO House Bellevue :  Serving the Bellevue and Eastside communities, this Clubhouse provides resources and programs that promote recovery and integration for individuals living with mental illness through employment, housing, and wellness programs. More information is available at www.bellevueclubhouse.org .  HERO House Everett :  This Clubhouse empowers members in Snohomish County through work, education, and social opportunities. Members and staff work together to facilitate the work of the Clubhouse and connect with the community through socials and fun activities. Visit www.everettclubhouse.org  for more information.  We invite you to read our annual IMPACT Report to learn more about our new branding, the progress we’ve made over the past year, and our ongoing efforts to support the mental health community on our website ( https://www.herohousenw.org/financial-accountability ).  For more information about HERO House NW, please visit www.herohousenw.org .   Contact:   Bernadette Jacobs Director of Communications & Development HERO House NW Email: bernadettej@herohousenw.org Phone: (425) 614-1282

We are excited to announce that our CEO, Kailey Fiedler-Gohlke, MA, CRC, has been appointed to the Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Behavioral Health . This prestigious appointment highlights Kailey’s dedication and expertise in advocating for individuals living with mental illness. Her involvement will ensure that HERO House NW’s mission and values are represented in important policy discussions across Washington state. Kailey’s leadership at HERO House NW has been transformative, and her appointment to this committee will further our efforts to improve mental health services and support for our community. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and look forward to the positive impact it will bring. For more details, please read the full press release  here .

This week, HERO House NW is proud to join Fountain House, Clubhouse International, and over 40 other clubhouses nationwide to observe the second annual Clubhouse Week of Action from May 28th to 31st, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month. Clubhouses across the nation, including HERO House NW, are dynamic, community-based centers offering critical recovery services for individuals living with serious mental illness. These services are vital for promoting employment, stable housing, and educational opportunities, significantly reducing the likelihood of psychiatric crises and hospitalizations. Kailey Fiedler-Gohlke, CEO of HERO House NW, states, “We are proud to partner with Fountain House, Clubhouse International, and over 40 clubhouses across the country for the second annual Clubhouse Week of Action." Ken Zimmerman, CEO of Fountain House, added, “This dedicated week of community organizing represents what clubhouses do best—building relationships while leveraging the expertise and leadership of members to be agents of change." By seeing people as more than their illness and building essential relationships and trust, Clubhouses have proven to reduce psychiatric crises and hospitalizations while also increasing the likelihood that members will be employed, stably housed, and able to further their education. All of this saves lives, while saving taxpayers an enormous amount of money, and is a model that should be scaled to help more people in need. From May 28-31, during Mental Health Awareness Month, 40 Clubhouses in more than 18 states and the District of Columbia have committed to take action. Together, the participating Clubhouses and their members represent a cross section of the country, capturing people both from urban and rural communities and across the political spectrum. It’s a reminder that mental health has become a leading bipartisan issue and offers immense opportunity to invest in the evidence-based, community-centered solutions, such as Clubhouses, that can make a difference. Monica Comeaux, a member of the Seattle Clubhouse, shares her story: "Participating in Clubhouse activities, from grant writing to social planning, has significantly transformed my life. The support here helped me pursue my education and more actively engage in the community." This Clubhouse Week of Action not only highlights the efficacy of the Clubhouse Model but also calls for legislative change to support community-based solutions, addressing the needs of 15.4 million adults in the U.S. living with serious mental health conditions. This is a bipartisan opportunity to impact millions, promoting dignity and rights through proven, cost-effective strategies. About HERO House NW HERO House NW envisions a world where people living with serious mental illness thrive. With clubhouses in Bellevue, Seattle, and Everett, WA, HERO House NW champions mental health recovery by facilitating clubhouse expansion, providing a robust platform for recovery, and increasing public awareness of mental health issues. About Fountain House and Clubhouse International Fountain House is a pioneering mental health nonprofit that developed the clubhouse model in 1948. Clubhouse International extends this model globally, with over 350 locations in 33 countries, enhancing recovery opportunities and advocating for people with mental illness worldwide. For more information about HERO House NW and how to support our initiatives, please visit www.herohousenw.org or contact HERO House NW at info@herohousenw.org.

Washington, D.C. — On Wednesday, Representative Ritchie Torres (NY-15) introduced the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Expansion Act of 2024. The federal legislation, co-sponsored by Representative Shri Thanedar (MI-13), aims to improve community mental health services by promoting a more holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment and care. Building off earlier bill language from last Congress, the legislation directs CCBHCs to enhance their scope of services to support people in their mental illness recovery, whether independently or in partnership with local clubhouses. This includes psychosocial rehabilitation services that advance people’s employment and educational opportunities, housing, and other holistic needs, which play a significant role in fostering recovery and wellbeing. This is the first time clubhouse has been defined in federal bill language, importantly with the feedback and technical support of several clubhouse members living with serious mental illness, including those from Fountain House. The comprehensive definition recognizes how clubhouses, and the therapeutic social environments they provide, are uniquely positioned to address the negative symptoms of serious mental illness, like loneliness and social isolation, which medication and therapy can’t tackle alone. As Fountain House’s newly released research shows, clubhouses are also incredibly effective at reducing the secondary costs of untreated mental illness, including lost wages, disability benefits, repeat emergency room visits, and criminal justice impacts, which saves the U.S. nearly $700 million a year. If clubhouses were expanded to reach even just 5% of the 15.4 million adults in the U.S. impacted by serious mental illness, the net societal benefit would exceed $8.5 billion annually. “Despite the significant growth in mental health awareness in recent years, access to essential services and person-centered care models remains rooted in outdated practices,” said U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres (NY-15). "Many communities — especially in the Bronx — still lack adequate and equitable access to a diverse range of mental health services. By enhancing service accessibility and broadening care options, we can enhance outcomes for individuals grappling with severe mental illness and bolster the well-being of entire communities. This legislation aims to widen access to these critical services, ensuring that individuals in need of essential mental health support are not left behind. I commend the relentless efforts of Fountain House Bronx in championing holistic mental health care that truly saves lives within our community.” “We applaud Congressmen Torres for introducing the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Expansion Act of 2024 in partnership with people most impacted by serious mental illness, including Fountain House’s members and with Clubhouse International,” said Ken Zimmerman, CEO of Fountain House. “By recognizing and incorporating psychosocial services as integral tools for recovery, this legislation addresses critical gaps in our mental health infrastructure that have, for too long, relied solely on clinical care. As local clubhouses are leveraged for their expertise, we hope it will ultimately create a more comprehensive and coherent mental health ecosystem that can meet people where they’re at and more meaningfully address the social drivers of health.” “Expanding access to clubhouses and the social supports they provide is absolutely essential and we thank Rep. Torres and Rep. Thanedar for championing the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Expansion Act to bring these vital resources to more people across the country,” said Shawn Guffey, member of Fountain House. “People’s lives are at stake: their ability to function, to be independent, to lead full and happy lives. We need more support from leaders at every level of government to ensure mental health is a priority that is funded and scaled.” “We are encouraged by the expansion of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic services and applaud Congressman Torres for his leadership on this important issue,” said Joel D. Corcoran, Executive Director and CEO of Clubhouse International. “Psychosocial rehabilitation programs like Clubhouses are a medical necessity for recovery and should be a part of every comprehensive mental health service system. We have decades of evidence demonstrating that programs offering dignity, self-determination, social inclusion, and meaningful rehabilitation opportunities truly help people living with mental illness reclaim their futures and thrive in the community.” Several clubhouses in Fountain House’s national network, Fountain House United, who also offered technical assistance on the bill, shared their wide support for the CCBHC Expansion Act and how it would improve and integrate care. “The community of Magnolia Clubhouse in Cleveland, Ohio, is proud to support this work and we are in great appreciation to Rep. Torres for championing psychiatric rehabilitation and the Clubhouse model as an exceptional example of what people living with mental illness need and deserve,” said Lori D’Angelo, Executive Director of Magnolia Clubhouse. “Clubhouses fill a void in the crisis-oriented system of care and offer a holistic and comprehensive approach that provides community, opportunity, and hope.” “The CCBHC Expansion Act is a tremendous step forward for our nation’s behavioral health care,” said Kailey Fiedler-Gohlke, CEO of HERO House NW. “Highlighting the importance of the Clubhouse model as a key aspect of the continuum of care for those living with mental illness is a critical component of recovery. Isolation is the most devastating symptom of mental illness and expanding the access to models, such as the Clubhouse, can reduce and eliminate the loneliness people experience. HERO House NW’s community is proud to support this bill.” For more information on Fountain House and how it’s supporting people living with serious mental illness through direct services, practice innovation, advocacy, and policy change, visit FountainHouse.org. Fountain HouseFountain House is a national mental health nonprofit fighting to improve health, increase opportunity, and end social and economic isolation for people living with serious mental illness. Founded in 1948 in New York City, Fountain House originated the clubhouse model of community mental health that has been replicated more than 300 times in nearly 40 U.S. states and in 30 countries around the world. https://fountainhouse.org/news/fountain-house-applauds-congressman-ritchie-torres-for-introducing-the-ccbhc-expansion-act

The findings reinforce the immense potential of this moment and marks the launch of the new Healings Minds, Powering Communities campaign to reframe serious mental illness and support community-based solutions. New York, NY — New bipartisan messaging research released by Fountain House as part of its Healing Minds, Powering Communities campaign shows that an overwhelming majority of voters across partisan lines support increasing funding for programs that address serious mental illness (SMI). The national survey, focus groups, and stakeholder interviews — conducted by Lake Research Partners, Black Raspberry Consumer Insights, and Chesapeake Beach Consulting — sought to gauge what Americans think about mental health care and its electoral impact. Findings show that voters across partisan lines are not only concerned about the stigma associated with mental illness and the persistent lack of affordable and accessible treatment, but that mental health is emerging as a top-priority issue that influences their vote. Among our key findings: Voters are looking to elected officials to address serious mental illness — and will reward them when they do. If an elected official increases funding for programs and interventions directed towards mental illness, 76% of voters say they’d be more likely to support them, including 46% who said they’d be much more likely to support them. This holds true across partisan lines, even if it would increase voters’ taxes. While rising costs and inflation remain a dominant concern for a majority of voters, more than seven in 10 (72%) say they would be more likely to vote for an elected official who supports increased funding for serious mental illness interventions and programs. When thinking about healthcare today, 75% of voters say the U.S. spends too little on mental health services. Similarly, 73% say the U.S. spends too little on services for serious mental illness. Many support increased funding for community-based mental health programs (83% support, 59% strongly support) and show even stronger intense support for community-based programs that treat serious mental illness (85% support, 64% strongly support), including clubhouses. Almost half of all voters (47%) have a personal connection to someone with a mental illness — either themselves, a family member, or a close friend. Bolstered by these findings, the new Healing Minds, Powering Communities campaign aims to leverage this unique moment when elected officials and the general public alike are seeking compassionate, well-resourced public policy to address mental illness — and are primed and ready to fund evidence-based approaches for change. The multi-year, collaborative effort brings together a wide tent of stakeholders and partners, including people with lived experience, to advocate for community-based approaches to addressing serious mental illness; expand access to proven interventions and preventative measures; and grow and sustain a movement that reduces stigma and discrimination for people living with SMI. “What makes this campaign different is that it’s for and by people living with serious mental illness and represents, for the first time, a dedicated investment and commitment to restoring our dignity and autonomy,” said Arvind Sooknanan, a member of Fountain House Bronx who also serves on Fountain House’s Board of Directors. “Advancing a true community-based system of care is not only a means to recovery and thriving but can reset the narrative around mental illness from stigma to acceptance.” “We urgently need new paradigms of public investment to make recovery and thriving the center of our policies and practices involving people with serious mental health challenges,” said Ken Zimmerman, CEO of Fountain House. “Healing Minds, Powering Communities emphasizes that we live in an age of solutions — when they are appropriately supported and resourced — and that prioritizing the voices of people with lived experience is central to combating problematic stereotypes.” Among the partners for the campaign: Clubhouse International and more than 65 local clubhouses spanning 24 states across the country, 1 Million Madly Motivated Moms (1M4), America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), the American Public Health Association, Camden Coalition of Healthcare Providers, Canopy Roots, Center for Justice Innovation, Families USA, ForLikeMinds, Mental Health America of West Central Indiana, the Mental Health Coalition, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS), the Steinberg Institute, the Technical Assistance Collaborative, Vera Institute of Justice, and VOCAL-NY. From May 24-31, 2023, Healing Minds, Powering Communities will host a Community Mental Health Week of Action where clubhouses will be trained and encouraged to open their doors to elected officials, local media, and other stakeholders so they can witness the power of community-based care and its impact on addressing serious mental illness. Other partners will also be promoting the benefits of this proven approach to their networks as a scalable, cost-effective, and more humane way to improve public safety, reduce mental health crises, while minimizing criminal justice involvement and its disparate impact on communities of color. “Clubhouse International is committed to continuing to lead in the effort of providing accessible recovery opportunities to anyone with lived experience of a mental illness by integrating the Clubhouse approach into health systems around the world,” said Joel D. Corcoran, Executive Director and CEO of Clubhouse International. “We are proud to partner in bringing the Healing Minds, Powering Communities advocacy campaign to the U.S.-based Clubhouses to effect policy change that prioritizes person-centered mental health care, and to increase funding for mental health services, such as the Clubhouse Model. This campaign will be instrumental in helping Clubhouses to advocate for their programs. The recent bipartisan research is an important validation for the Clubhouse network and supports what we see every day, that communities benefit from having a Clubhouse. Our vision is that one day there is a Clubhouse in every community.” “As a member-led collective supporting initiatives, programs, and solutions that decriminalize mental illness and reduce interactions between law enforcement and Black community members, we believe those closest to an issue are the individuals with the most insight into the solutions,” said Tansy McNulty, Founder and CEO of 1 Million Madly Motivated Moms (1M4). “Healing Minds, Powering Communities advances the evidence-based, person-centered approaches to mental health that we know can make a difference and is importantly led by those with mental illness themselves. We’re proud to stand with and support this effort.” “This new study underscores the high level of public support that exists for the expansion of community-based rehabilitation services and recovery supports that advance the dignity, agency, and connection to community of people with major mental health related challenges, especially for low income individuals and people of color,” said Harvey Rosenthal, CEO of the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS). “NYAPRS will be a very active member of the campaign’s focus on public, policymaker, and media education: the need is urgent and requires their strong support to take immediate action.” For more information on Fountain House and how we’re supporting people living with serious mental illness through direct services, practice innovation, advocacy, and policy change, visit FountainHouse.org. Fountain House Fountain House is a national mental health nonprofit fighting to improve health, increase opportunity, and end social and economic isolation for people living with serious mental illness. Founded in 1948 in New York City, Fountain House originated the clubhouse model of community mental health that has been replicated more than 300 times in nearly 40 U.S. states and in 30 countries around the world.

HERO House NW's Chief Executive Officer, Kailey Fiedler-Gohlke, was names as one of Puget Sound Business Journal's (PSBJ) top 40 under 40 executives in 2023. The honorees represent a wide range of companies that reflect the diversity of the Puget Sound region's business community. Kailey will be celebrated at an upcoming event on April 26th at the Showbox Pike Place Market as well as featured in the PSBJ publication on April 28th. The PSBJ article can be viewed here: https://bizj.us/1qidhu

Prepare for Give Big 2023 as we enter Mental Health Awareness Month. Join the annual fund drive supporting nonprofits across Washington State and Give Big to support HERO House NW on May 2nd & 3rd 2023 at this link: https://www.wagives.org/donate/herohousenw

Living with mental illness can be challenging, but having a dog can make a significant difference. Dogs provide companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of purpose. Taking care of a dog also has mental health benefits, offering structure and routine to your daily life. In this blog post, we’ll explore how dogs help people living with mental illness and the positive impact of dog care on mental health. The Healing Power of Dogs Unconditional Love and Companionship Dogs offer unwavering love and companionship, providing comfort during difficult times. Their presence alone can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. When you come home to your dog’s wagging tail and excited greetings, it’s hard not to feel a little bit better. This constant companionship is especially beneficial for those struggling with depression and anxiety. Reducing Stress and Anxiety Interacting with dogs has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Petting a dog releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of relaxation and happiness. Spending time with your dog can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and help you feel more calm and centered. The simple act of petting your dog can be a powerful stress reliever. Encouraging Physical Activity Dogs need regular exercise, which encourages you to stay active as well. Daily walks, playtime, and outdoor activities with your dog help improve your physical health and boost your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Plus, spending time outdoors provides a change of scenery and fresh air, which are beneficial for mental health. The Benefits of Dog Care Establishing Routine and Structure Taking care of a dog creates a sense of routine and structure in your life. Feeding, grooming, and walking your dog at regular intervals provide a sense of responsibility and purpose. This structure can be particularly helpful for those with mental illness, offering stability and a reason to get out of bed each day. Building Social Connections Having a dog can help you build social connections. Walking your dog in the neighborhood or visiting dog parks provides opportunities to meet and interact with other pet owners. These interactions can lead to meaningful conversations and friendships, reducing feelings of isolation. Dogs are natural icebreakers, making it easier to strike up conversations with strangers. Enhancing Emotional Well-being Taking care of a dog enhances your emotional well-being. The bond you share with your dog can boost your self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that your dog depends on you for care and companionship can give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This emotional connection can be particularly comforting during tough times. The Joy of Dog Grooming Stress Relief Through Grooming Grooming your dog can be a relaxing and therapeutic activity. Brushing your dog’s coat, giving them a bath, and ensuring they’re clean and comfortable can be satisfying tasks. Grooming provides a quiet moment to bond with your dog and enjoy their company. Using high-quality grooming products ensures your dog’s coat stays healthy and shiny, adding to the pleasure of grooming. We can put in a plug for Bogart Pro Shampoo, as we know they are local, and a portion of proceeds benefit people recovering from mental illness. Promoting Physical Health Regular grooming promotes your dog’s physical health and hygiene. Keeping your dog clean helps prevent skin infections, matting, and other health issues. A well-groomed dog is also more comfortable and happier. The act of grooming can be a meditative process, helping you focus on the present moment and providing a break from daily stressors. Strengthening the Bond Grooming sessions strengthen the bond between you and your dog. The time spent grooming fosters trust and affection. Your dog will enjoy the attention and care, and you’ll enjoy the opportunity to connect with your furry friend. This bond is mutually beneficial, enhancing both your mental well-being and your dog’s happiness. Practical Tips for Dog Owners Consistent Routine Establish a consistent routine for feeding, walking, and grooming your dog. Consistency helps create a sense of stability and predictability, which can be comforting for both you and your dog. A regular schedule also makes it easier to manage your responsibilities and ensures your dog’s needs are met. Quality Time Spend quality time with your dog each day. Engage in activities that you both enjoy, such as playing fetch, going for walks, or simply cuddling on the couch. This time together strengthens your bond and provides opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Professional Help Seek professional help if needed. If you’re struggling to care for your dog or manage your mental health, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Professional groomers, trainers, and veterinarians can offer valuable support and advice. Mental health professionals can also provide guidance and resources to help you cope with your challenges. The Role of Professional Grooming Benefits of Regular Grooming Appointments Regular grooming appointments ensure your dog is well-groomed and healthy. Professional groomers have the expertise and tools to maintain your dog’s coat, nails, and overall hygiene. These appointments can also provide a break for you, giving you time to relax while your dog is being pampered. Choosing the Right Groomer Choose a groomer who is experienced and gentle with dogs. Look for a groomer who uses high-quality products (like Bogart Pro Shampoo), which are gentle on your dog’s skin and coat. A good groomer will make the experience enjoyable for your dog and ensure they leave looking and feeling their best. Frequency of Grooming The frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Regular grooming sessions every 4-6 weeks are generally recommended. Keeping up with a grooming schedule ensures your dog’s coat remains healthy and reduces the risk of skin issues. Dogs as Healing Companions Dogs provide invaluable companionship and support for people living with mental illness. Their unconditional love, loyalty, and playful nature can bring joy and comfort to your life. Taking care of a dog also offers numerous mental health benefits, including reduced stress, increased physical activity, and a sense of purpose. Incorporating regular grooming into your dog’s care routine further enhances the bond you share and promotes their health and happiness. High-quality grooming products like Bogart Pro Shampoo make the grooming experience enjoyable and beneficial for both you and your dog. If you’re living with mental illness, consider the positive impact a dog can have on your well-being. The companionship and care you provide to your furry friend can lead to a happier, healthier life for both of you. Embrace the healing power of dogs and the joy they bring to your life.

We revealed our annual IMPACT Report honorees at our first annual IMPACT Awards banquet on March 25th, 2023 as we paid tribute to all the individuals and organizations who advanced our mission throughout the year. In recognition of our key community partners, we presented individuals and organizations with the following IMPACT AWARDS during the program: Abe Kriger Visionary Award - Senator Manka Dhingra Partner in Mental Health - 3R Technology Partner in Mental Health - Farms for Life Bellevue Clubhouse IMPACT Award - Phil Gerson Everett Clubhouse IMPACT Award - Harold J. & Meg McClure Seattle Clubhouse IMPACT Award - Larry Clum Event photos are posted online at: https://studio.kenstanek.photography/gallery/herohousenw

We are pleased to present our 2022 IMPACT Report. We are proud of our achievements and grateful to our partners, friends, staff and members who make Clubhouses an amazing community resource for people experiencing mental illness. Click here to view the full report and read our Financial Accountability. View or down load report here.

We are proud to publish our 2021 IMPACT Report, with gratitude to our members, community partners, Board of Directors and Advisory members for their many contributions. Click here to view dynamic report in browser. Click below to download report

More than a third of us would NEVER admit to someone that we feel lonely. Yet it's a universally shared part of the human experience. Imagine the difference we'd make for the other two-thirds if we just said "I've been there". That's the magic of Clubhouse. #Ivebeenthere#mentalhealthweek#mentalhealthmonth#Clubhouseworks