AHRC New York City’s Job Connection Center Clubhouse supports adults with a dual diagnosis, a mental health condition, or a co-occurring disorder as they prepare for employment.
Job Connection Center Clubhouse membership is open to adults 18 or older with:
– A dual diagnosis (mental health and developmental disability),
– A mental health diagnosis such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, or Major Depressive Disorder, or
– A co-occurring substance use disorder
Membership is completely free for anyone who meets the eligibility requirements.
AHRC New York City’s Job Connection Center Clubhouse (JCC Clubhouse) is a welcoming, site-based program located in Brooklyn. It is a space for adults with a dual diagnosis (a mental health condition and a developmental disability), a mental health diagnosis, or a co-occurring substance use disorder to connect with others, build relationships, and work toward their goals. Members take part in meaningful activities and receive support with employment, education, housing, healthcare, and other services.
What kinds of activities happen at the Clubhouse?
There are a variety of programs and activities members can take part in:
- Work-Ordered Day: Members help run the Clubhouse by doing tasks like cleaning, planning events, preparing newsletters, cooking, and more.
- Employment Program: Staff support members in finding and keeping paid jobs.
- Education Program: Members can get help enrolling in and completing educational programs, including college or job training.
- Social and Recreational Program: Offers activities during evenings, weekends, and holidays that give members a chance to build friendships and have fun.
Do I get paid for helping at the Clubhouse?
No. Members are not paid for the work they do at the JCC Clubhouse, and there are no reward systems. However, staff help members pursue and secure paid employment in the community.
Do I have to stay the whole day when I come?
No. Participation is voluntary. Members choose how often they want to come and how involved they want to be.
Are there any rules?
Yes. To keep the JCC Clubhouse safe and respectful, all members are expected to:
- Treat everyone with respect
- Dress appropriately
- Not smoke inside the Clubhouse
- Respect others’ opinions and space
- Avoid fighting, threats, or physical contact
- Keep the space clean
- Not use drugs or alcohol at the Clubhouse
How long does membership last?
Membership does not expire. Once you are a member, you are always welcome back—no matter how long you have been away—unless your return would create a current and serious risk to the JCC Clubhouse community.
Do members and staff have the same responsibilities?
Members and staff work together to run the Clubhouse. They function like colleagues—sharing ideas, taking part in daily tasks, and contributing to decision-making as part of the same team.
Are there doctors or therapists at the JCC Clubhouse?
The Clubhouse does not provide medical or clinical treatment, but members can receive support from our social work team and may be referred to doctors, therapists, community-based services, or the AHRC NYC Clinical Center for Disabilities in Brooklyn.
Will my medications be monitored at the Clubhouse?
No. The JCC Clubhouse is not a clinical program. Members are not viewed as patients or clients, but as active participants in their own growth. While many members take medication, that is handled outside the Clubhouse with their medical providers.