Executive Summary

Venture House serves adults living with mental illness, supporting their recovery through improved access to employment, education, housing, healthcare, socialization, civic engagement, and the arts, using a unique approach called the Clubhouse, which is rooted in the concept that working is restorative, that having purpose, social connection, and fellowship promotes health and well-being. Membership is lifelong, with members choosing the frequency of their attendance.

Members, on a voluntary basis, work side by side with staff, in running day-to-day operations, building skills in the area of admissions, reception, facility maintenance, culinary, clerical, as well as program planning and development. The purpose of members' work is twofold: first, it provides them with purpose, and second, they are operating critical programs that serve their needs and those of the members. Units are devoted to Education & Employment, Communications, Media and Data, Social Programs, Civic Engagement and Advocacy.

Members are involved in decision-making, at every level of the organization, including interviewing and hiring staff as well as potential service on the Board of Directors. Members are not only welcome, they are essential, i.e., needed, wanted, and expected. The experience of feeling valued builds self-esteem and promotes the confidence one needs to have agency in life.

Venture membership provides a stigma-free environment that focuses on individual strengths. Program staff ensure participation through proactive outreach efforts, collaborating with other providers of community supports in promoting the overall health and well-being of our membership.

Venture House also operates a supportive housing program across the boroughs of NYC.

Organizations may provide budget and employee data based on this proposal or the organization as a whole. For more information on this proposal or organization, please email us.