United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
The United Way-funded Grand Avenue Club supports people dealing with mental illness; not only through job placement, education, and recreational activities, but by making them feel valued and accepted in our community. “Grand Avenue Club has helped me feel more comfortable about waking up and facing the day with goals and intentions,” says Jonathan, who joined the program in 2010. Jonathan was initially shy when he joined but soon he gravitated toward the Culinary Unit, preparing meals and catering special events. After six months, he was offered a temporary position at Outpost Natural Foods. He was a quick learner, but still shy, so he attended work support meetings and eventually became less anxious and more willing to engage others. Soon Outpost hired him as a regular employee, and eventually he was named “employee of the month". Jonathan is thankful that Grand Avenue Club was there to help him. “You can be a part of a community where you don't feel worthless and see that you are valued for what you have to offer,” Jonathan adds. “It helps you realize all these wonderful things about yourself and show who you are with confidence.”