Rose’s Story
Growing up, I had a relatively stable childhood, but life's challenges eventually led me down a difficult path. Surrounded by a community struggling with drug addiction and personal turmoil, I found myself trapped in a cycle of pain, using drugs to cope with my mental health issues. Over time, I became isolated, losing connections with loved ones and sinking deeper into what I now refer to as my "mental health world." It felt like there was no way out, and I feared I would never escape the grip of addiction and mental illness.
Then, I discovered Foot Print to Success Clubhouse, a nonprofit that helps adults with severe mental illnesses by teaching social and job skills to help us become active members of our community. At first, I doubted the Clubhouse could make a difference for me, but the warmth and support I received there changed everything. The Clubhouse became my lifeline, offering the tools I needed to reclaim my life, including helping me secure meaningful employment—something I once thought was out of reach. Today, I am free from addiction, actively helping others navigate the court system, and working toward expunging my record. For the first time, I feel hopeful, and my family is proud of who I’m becoming.
“The Clubhouse became my lifeline, offering the tools I needed to reclaim my life, including helping me secure meaningful employment—something I once thought was out of reach.”
“I am grateful to be part of the Clubhouse community, and I learn something new every day I attend.”
Arthur’s Story
I have been hospitalized eight times for schizophrenia and been to five mental health treatment programs. My case manager at Summit told me about the Foot Print to Success.
Clubhouse, which I joined last year. I Believe that Foot Print to Success Clubhouse is the best program. The staff are welcoming, and you really feel like you belong there. The members help each other complete various tasks throughout the day, and I like to volunteer for janitorial duties.
At the age of 17, I dropped out of school. By 23, I was married and had two children, but I divorced when I was 33. During my divorce, I began drinking heavily and stopped taking my medication for schizophrenia. As a result, at 38, I was incarcerated for 15 years for attempted murder. While in prison, I worked in the laundry and the kitchen. I also started attending church, where I sang to the Lord and praised Him for what I had instead of dwelling on what I missed, like watching my children grow up and being there for family events and holidays.
I was released from prison in 2010, but I lived on the streets for the next ten years. It was a living hell. Bathing consisted of washing in lakes and canals, and I relied on soup kitchens and free food for the homeless in Hollywood. In 2020, I found myself living at Summit and attending New Vista's program. After I graduated from New Vista, I learned about the Foot Print to Success Clubhouse.
During this time, supportive housing apartments at SW Hammocks became available.
Now, I Live in an apartment I got through Foot Print to Success Clubhouse. The Clubhouse is assisting me in finding work as a janitor. My main challenges in securing a job are my felony conviction and poor reading skills, but the Clubhouse is helping me improve through adult literacy programs. I am grateful to be part of the Clubhouse community, and I learn something new every day I attend.
Jorge
“My husband’s psychologist recommended that my husband, Jorge, join Footprint to Success Clubhouse. Three months later upon my urging, Jorge toured the Clubhouse. He became a member in 2011. Five years before joining the clubhouse Jorge was hospitalized 27 times for schizophrenia and during that time had three failed suicide attempts. After joining the Clubhouse Jorge had one hospitalization. My husband said he has found a purpose in his life. He helps other members realize that recovery is possible for everyone. Today, in addition to being a member, Jorge is a NAMI facilitator for peer-led support groups.”
– Lynne (former teacher)
Louise
Louise is currently employed for the City of Pompano Beach. She works 30 hours a week, Monday -Thursday, as an administrative assistant and makes $14/hour.
Louise has stated that she is doing so much better now that she is employed for the City of Pompano Beach because it helps her have hope for a better future. She has never had a job that offers all the benefits of being employed by the City of Pompano Beach. She is very enthusiastic each time the staff speaks with her.
The new position has helped her family become financially stable and she has the possibility of permanent full-time employment