Grand Avenue Club matches people with purpose

When Grenesha was 18, she felt the pressure of becoming an adult. Then she retreated.“I was very isolated, just spent all my time at the library mostly by myself, just reading books,” she said, adding that her isolation led to hospitalization and a bleak outlook on her future. “I honestly didn't see myself past 30. I didn't want to be past 30.”Then Grenesha heard about Grand Avenue Club — a voluntary, non-clinical mental-health organization. She became a member and has stayed involved for 14 years, moving well past the point where she imagined her road ending.“Now, this August, I'll be turning 40,” she said. “I went from not having any work skills to having a full resume and being offered jobs. Went from dropping out of college numerous times to now having a degree and continuing on with another degree.” Founded in 1991, Grand Avenue Club supports members through the pillars of employment, education and enrichment. Since 1994, it’s been a part of Clubhouse International, a model committed to enriching the lives of people experiencing mental illnesses. “We're the only clubhouse in Milwaukee,” Grand Avenue Club associate director Ben Holt said. “This is a model that's been around since the ’50s. Started in Manhattan. There's about 370 or so clubhouses around the world in about 32 countries.”In this episode, we hear from Grenesha, Holt and others about how Grand Avenue Club helps its members navigate mental illness and recognize their purpose. #####Guest host: Rachel TarbyUniquely Milwaukee is supported by our Radio Milwaukee members.