Underwriting support from:
India Knight /Courtesy of Sheldon House
Sheldon House outing /Courtesy of Sheldon House
India Knight, a member of Sheldon House, knows what living with mental illness is like. She lives with bipolar disorder and “has weathered many storms.” When she was first diagnosed, she said she was in denial. She did not want to believe she had a mental illness. “It was hard to accept.”
Knight has found support and understanding, by joining Sheldon House Clubhouse. Sheldon House is a program of Cherry Health, providing needed support and opportunities to those with mental illness in Kent County. “I love Sheldon House. It is like a family to me,” Knight states. As a member of Sheldon House, Knight has found something positive to be a part of that helps her in her recovery. Knight is an active volunteer in the Clubhouse community. Through involvement at Sheldon House, she is more confident in herself. She gains support from other members and staff on the tough days. On other days, she is the one offering the support. By being a part of Sheldon House, Knight knows she has value, support and the tools needed to achieve her goals. “Right now, I’m working to pursue my education and become more active and healthy, with the help of the Club.”
Tara VanDyke, the Sheldon House manager, has seen the impact of its supportive community on hundreds of lives. “Our members come to Sheldon House finding a place to feel accepted, needed, receive support, gain employment skills, find paid employment opportunities, pursue their education and build friendships. We know that having a strong support system plays a large role in one’s mental health. Social relationships affect mental health, health behavior, physical health, and mortality risk. We also know that there is a strong link between work or purposeful activity and our mental health.” Sheldon House offers a place to develop social connections, in addition to finding meaningful work. The Clubhouse offers hope, support and opportunity.
As an accredited Clubhouse program with Clubhouse International, Sheldon House has a mission to serve those with mental illness in all of Kent County. To achieve this goal, Sheldon House, is raising funds through a community event on Saturday, July 9, 2016.
The 2016 Sheldon House Craft & Vendor Show will be held from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. This family-friendly, community event will be held near Sheldon House, in the Catholic Central High School parking lot on the corner of LaGrave and Maple. Many crafters and small home businesses selling crafts, etched glass, jewelry, home décor, clutches, art, totes/bags, handmade greeting cards, and much more will be there.
Dallas Deli will sell their famous Texas Style BBQ. The YMCA Veggie Van and Country Fresh products are also available for purchase. A Grand Rapids Fire Department truck will be on site from 10-11 AM and 1-2PM. Professional face painting, children’s duck pond game, and a sidewalk sprinkler add to the fun. Parking is free. Admission is free.
All proceeds from this event will support Cherry Health Foundation, specifically designated for Sheldon House, to increase access and opportunities to the Clubhouse community, for those living with mental illness in Kent County.
For more information, email [email protected] or call Tara VanDyke at 616-965-8200 ext 7336.
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