A.C.E. Clubhouse: A warm and welcoming place for those struggling

Stepping across the threshold into the A.C.E. Clubhouse in New Philadelphia, the first impression is one of a buzz of conversation and laughter, as if walking into a gathering of old friends rather than into an agency serving mental and emotional health needs. That is because the individuals at A.C.E. (Advocacy, Choices, and Empowerment, Inc.) truly are friends.

"A.C.E. has changed my life tremendously, and I have made lifelong friends here," said Nelson Freed, an A.C.E. participant who also struggles with Tourettes syndrome.

Tony Daley is the vice president of the A.C.E. board, and has found the group to be a lifesaver. "I was diagnosed in 2009 as being bipolar. My life was pretty messed up. I had 40 jobs in 7 1/2 years, so something was obviously wrong. Family and friends helped me get here. Now, I come here for my recovery. I like the activities here, and meeting other people with other mental disorders, and seeing how they cope. We are a source of support for each other. There is accountability, with our weekly check-ins, Hopeful Hearts group, Bible studies, and other activities. We share what is going on in our lives."

Board president Karen Nicholson emphasized that members "can call each other at home when they need a friend."

Each day Monday through Friday there are two activities, plus a noon meal. Activities may include guest speakers, crafts, karaoke, celebrations, and all types of life enhancing programs. There is a computer room, music room, workout equipment, library, and game area onsite, along with a washer and dryer for members' use. Field trips and outings are a regular occurrence.

"The A.C.E. Club gives me friends and a social life. We even go to First Fridays in Canton together," noted Rick Haney.

According to A.C.E. director Todd Little, the group also performs outreach projects each month to assist others in need. "We believe that in order to help yourself, you need to contribute," he commented.

Ricky Johnson has been a part of A.C.E. since 1994, and agreed with Little. "My favorite thing is helping other people here. I give back."

The Tuscarawas County ADAMHS board is the primary source of funding for the organization. The A.C.E. Club also has its own board, consisting primarily of clients.

Terry Swank shared, "I have social problems, so this helps me get socialized with others. I came about two years ago, when I had a mental breakdown and lost my job and my living arrangements. I had to live at the homeless shelter and saw a flier, and decided to come here. I never thought I would be in that situation, not in a million years. I have met a lot of good people here, willing to help. They were open and welcoming."

"In the mornings, when I wake up and I'm all alone, and I feel I need to be around people I know, I can come here," quietly commented Becky Goudy. "I find A.C.E. fulfilling. The people are very understanding. I was always a pretty quiet person, and found it hard to find friends. My illness makes me more backwards. That is why I am glad there are places like this. You can be backwards, and still come here and find people who like you. I just think A.C.E. is a good place for anyone who needs other people because of illnesses or other unfortunate things. I would recommend it to anyone in my situation, and I have really benefited from it."

"We encourage each other. We know when we're down, and we're there for each other," explained Daley. "There was a stigma in the past with mental health, but I think that is changing. I don't think there is anyone who doesn't have a family member or friend struggling with it."

Any resident of Tuscarawas or Carroll County 18 and older, who is recovering from a mental illness, may become a member of the A.C.E. Club simply by contacting Little at 330-308-5742, by visiting http://www.aceclubhouse.org for more information, or by stopping by 115 Third St. SW in New Philadelphia, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.