Olmsted County exploring international clubhouse mental health model

  • News
  • Mar 30, 2026

More than 80 community members gathered at the Rochester Public Library on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, for Olmsted County’s third listening session on mental health supports. During the session, attendees shared insights and asked questions as the county explores the possibility of bringing an international “clubhouse” to our community. 

The clubhouse model is an evidence‑based, non‑clinical approach designed to support adults living with a mental health condition. Clubhouses offer a welcoming environment where members can build community, experience belonging and purpose, and access employment, education, housing, and wellness supports. This model has been shown to reduce isolation and lessen the need for higher‑cost services. 

Why a clubhouse? 

Three men sit at the front of a room in a row. The man in the middle is holding a microphone and talking

The idea emerged after the Olmsted County Mental Health Local Advisory Council conducted a community needs assessment. While Olmsted County offers several resources, the needs assessment identified a need for a public space where individuals living with mental illness can find community support.  

“Olmsted County has done a great job in dedicating significant resources in the last number of years to support crisis mental health services through mobile crisis and the Southeast Regional Crisis Center,” said Olmsted County Southeast MN Adult Mental Health Initiative Regional Program Coordinator Laura Sutherland. “International Clubhouse is a proven mental health recovery model that could help reduce the long-term need for crisis services by creating community, purpose and meaning for those living with a mental health condition.” 

Clubhouses offer members a place to build safe relationships, regain confidence, and engage in meaningful work. Members play a central role in organizing daily activities and work side-by-side with staff as colleagues. The model emphasizes purpose, connection, and empowerment. 

Clubhouses also help connect members with paid employment opportunities in local businesses. These placements support individuals who want to return to work and help them gain the skills and confidence needed to be successful employees.  

Participation is open to adults with a mental health condition who are willing and able to take part in structured tasks that support the daily operations of the program. 

Olmsted County Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith attended last Wednesday’s session. She was impressed with the international clubhouse approach to non-clinical rehabilitation for people living with mental health conditions. 

“The international clubhouse model has helped many members reduce hospital stays, stabilize their lives, and rebuild confidence,” said Podulke-Smith. “I am eager to continue community discussions for this effective, non-clinical, mental health treatment model.” 

Listening to the community 

A group of people sit around a table having a discussion.

Olmsted County has been gathering community input through a series of listening sessions. These sessions allowed residents to learn about the clubhouse model and share input on the support needed to help those with mental health conditions thrive. 

Participants also heard from Vail Communities clubhouse members in the metro area. They talked about their lived experiences and the impact the model has had on their recovery.  

NAMI Southeast Minnesota Executive Director Megan Toney noted that the clubhouse model is grounded in lived experience. 

“People with mental health conditions guide what truly works within this approach,” Toney said. “By moving forward with the international clubhouse model, we have an opportunity to invest in prevention services that genuinely reflect the needs of Olmsted County residents.” 

Toney has been encouraged to see more than 200 community members attend listening sessions and learn more about the clubhouse model. She’s hearing positive feedback, welcoming this type of resource to Olmsted County. 

At last week’s listening session, attendees broke into small groups to discuss what bringing a clubhouse to Olmsted County could look like. Participants shared insights about what a successful clubhouse would require and the challenges it could help address in the community. Themes included: 

  • Strong collaboration and buy‑in from local organizations. 
  • A well‑chosen and accessible physical location. 
  • Partnerships with local businesses to support education, community connections, and employment. 
  • Continued efforts to reduce stigma and recognize the strengths and contributions of people living with mental illness. 

Upcoming Listening Sessions 

Vail Communities, NAMI Southeast Minnesota, and Olmsted County will host two additional listening sessions to explore leadership roles. These conversations will include discussions about forming an advisory council to help guide the vision, elevate community voices, and provide ongoing direction. They will also explore the role of community ambassadors who can help build connections, share the vision, and engage residents throughout the process. 

Upcoming session details: 

 
Community feedback is an essential part of this exploration. Olmsted County encourages residents to attend a listening session and help shape the future of mental health community support in our area. 

Olmsted County plans to bring the clubhouse model to the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners in May 2026. The board will be asked to consider supporting a clubhouse to be established in 2027. 

Questions?  

If you have any questions, please contact Laura Sutherland and/or Megan Toney.