Program Participant Spotlight: Timothy Dabriel, Greater Heights Clubhouse & PROS

How did you find out about the Greater Heights Clubhouse, and how long have you been a member?

This is my third year, and I found out about it from my friend, Christian. I met him while I was in the hospital, and he was going to the program. 

How has your time at the Clubhouse been?

It’s been excellent. I love the group, the people…I mean, really, everything. 

What kind of activities do you participate in at the Clubhouse?

We have parties and go places. We do work stuff, too. I’m in a work preparation program; I’m trying to work in maintenance. It’s ok for right now, but it’s not my dream job. My dream job is to do something with basketball or open up my own store. 

Do you live near the Clubhouse?

No, I just moved into supportive housing in Manhattan. My dad kicked me out of the house, so for a while I was in the shelter. My parents are separated, and my mom’s in Virginia. I just moved into my housing on 17th street, and it’s more like a college dorm. I have my own room, and they’ve got a bathroom in the hallway, but there are no classes or anything like that.

Have you met many of your neighbors?

Yeah, there are cool people. I met some of them. They do community meetings, and we go out and have parties. 

Do you get involved with any mental health activities at the Clubhouse?

Well I’m actually in PROS [BCS’s Personalized Recovery Oriented Services]. I go to the PROS program every Tuesday and Thursday. I used to go every day, but then I started going to the Clubhouse more.  

What are your favorite things about the Clubhouse and PROS?

I get to talk to my counselor, and I like the people. At PROS, we have a lot of brand new people, and I’m still getting to know them. I’ve been going there for six or seven years now. I’m learning how to cope with my illness and talk about it.