b'BENRiversides Clubhouse helped merealize my potential. Riverside prepared me to help those in need during the COVID pandemic.Ben came to Riverside feeling out of luck, having just lost his job. Riverside saw that Ben was a perfect match for our Clubhousean internationally certified, supportive, stigma-free community for adults with mental illness. Ben says he felt immediately welcome the first time he entered Neponset River House. He settled in quickly, not only developing friendships but also benefiting from Riversides employment services. Riverside staff at the Clubhouse taught Ben skills related to managing inventory and funds, and helped him better advocate for himself. With the support and encouragement he received, as well as newfound confidence, motivation, and gumption, Ben secured a job at Wegmans supermarket.When the pandemic hit, Ben fully embraced his role as an essential worker at Wegmans, seeing his job as a meaningful opportunity to help the community in a time of great need. And Neponset River House was behind him 100%. Although the Clubhouse building had to close, staff continued to work with Ben virtually, making sure his paychecks were properly deposited and that Bens support team knew his work schedule. Ben says that despite the pandemic, he has never felt happier. Because of Riverside, he belongs to a community like no other, and he works at a job that allows him to make a difference. Riverside Clubhouses and Employment Services offer people with mental illness hope and opportunities to achieve their full potential through employment and recovery. Clubhouses go beyond programs or social services in that they give members the opportunity to be part of a successful,stigma-free community that is restorative while building self-esteem and dignity.5'