Becky Delaune's Fundraiser: the Gift of Belonging

For the past six years, I have had the privilege of being closely connected with Cowtown Clubhouse. During that time, I have seen firsthand what a difference this community can make in the lives of people living with mental illness.

Cowtown Clubhouse is a place where people belong. Members are not defined by a diagnosis or by the challenges they have faced. They are welcomed as friends and colleagues, encouraged to recognize their strengths, and given meaningful opportunities to contribute, learn, work, and grow alongside others.

Today, I am more excited about Cowtown Clubhouse than I have ever been.

Over the past year, the Clubhouse has strengthened its staff and expanded the opportunities available to members. Its signature Clubhouse International Work-Ordered Day gives members a meaningful role in the daily life and operation of the Clubhouse, working side by side with staff and one another. New opportunities such as expressive arts activities and individualized coaching help members identify wellness, social, and economic goals—and, importantly, develop plans for achieving them. In just three months this spring, 19 members set personal goals and created plans, with members reaching important wellness, social, and economic milestones.

Employment is another important part of the Clubhouse model. Through Transitional Employment partnerships with organizations like DRC Solutions and other employment support, members have opportunities to return to the workforce, develop confidence and skills, and take meaningful steps toward greater independence.

The Clubhouse itself has also found a wonderful new home in historic Hemphill Heights, conveniently located near Trinity Metro’s #1 bus line. This welcoming, accessible location provides the stability Cowtown Clubhouse needs to deepen its programs and build an even stronger community.

And I believe there are exciting possibilities ahead.

Over the long term, Cowtown Clubhouse has the opportunity to think creatively about how its presence in Hemphill Heights might grow. The clubhouse is working toward ownership of its Clubhouse home, and as they grow they can explore properties that could complement the clubhouse mission and strengthen the community surrounding its members. These are long-term opportunities that point toward an inspiring vision: a lasting place in Fort Worth where people living with mental illness can find community, friendship, purpose, employment support, education, and the encouragement they need to build secure and fulfilling lives.

What excites me most, however, is not a building or a future plan. It is the people.

I see members who are more engaged, hopeful, and energized. I see experienced staff members committed to a vision for their community. I see people supporting one another, setting goals, contributing their talents, developing skills, finding employment, and experiencing something every person deserves: the knowledge that they belong and that they have something valuable to offer.

That is why I am supporting Cowtown Clubhouse this North Texas Giving Day, and I hope you will join me.

Your gift helps create opportunities for people living with mental illness to belong, grow, work, contribute, and build meaningful lives. In doing so, you are also helping build a stronger and more compassionate Fort Worth community.

I hope you will consider making a generous contribution to Cowtown Clubhouse today. I am proud to support this remarkable community, and I would be honored to have you support it with me.

— Becky Delaune