10/09/2025
Do you remember this photo from last year? Check out Chris T's spotlight which is being featured in our Summer 2025 newsletter. Want to see the whole newsletter? Subscribe by emailing info@lookingaheadclubhouse.org, and get updates every quarter!
Fueling the Future: Chris T’s Story of Dedication and Drive
Chris T. started his Clubhouse journey 11 years ago. A North Carolina local, Chris, was living in Farmington, Maine when he was referred to Looking Ahead Clubhouse (LAC) by his case manager. At the Clubhouse, Chris was able to become a part of a community and even a member leader after he went to Colleague Training at Gateway Clubhouse in South Carolina.
Chris lived in Farmington for many years, which would often lead to isolation from his Clubhouse due to lack of reliable public transport. In late 2022 Chris discovered the Green Line, with help and support from LAC. This bus route allowed Chris to connect with his Clubhouse community for three hours a day most days. However, Chris would still miss most holidays and portions of the Clubhouse’s extended evening programs due to the bus schedule. Chris did have things that he liked to do at home, such as bike riding and walking around the University of Maine Farmington campus, but he would often do these things alone.
In 2024, Chris had a fire breakout in his Farmington apartment. This fire left him homeless for several months. “A Clubhouse staff, Amber, she helped me with getting into St. Martin’s shelter, which really helped me a lot.” Chris reflected. Sometimes St. Martin’s could be a challenge, especially during the day, as the shelter would shut down for several hours. On weekdays Chris was able to come to Clubhouse. He reflected that it was nice to go somewhere that had heat or air conditioning, and he could be useful, while also getting to see people he knew supported him. Chris also stated that with the help of the Clubhouse, he was able to get a storage unit and keep his larger salvageable items, like his bike and some furniture. Chris was also able to access the Citylink Bus, to get other needs met, which Clubhouse helped him learn to navigate.
With more time at the Clubhouse, Chris was able the strengthen already existing bonds with colleagues, and due to his increased interpersonal relationships, he was able to fill his weekends quickly. Chris reflected that Lewiston has much more to do than Farmington, his favorite weekend activities are going to the collectables store in the mall, and getting a lunch from Jersey Mike’s. Chris has stated that “My friends and Clubhouse have helped me in more ways than one. Especially my buddy David. Without him, I don’t know what would have happened. ”
As part of their program St. Martins requires residents to save a portion of income to help with housing. Though he was appreciative of his space, Chris ultimately wanted his own place in Lewiston. Chris was able to work with the Clubhouse and the shelter in order to identify what areas of his budget he needed to be mindful of so that he could meet the savings requirements needed for an apartment. With the goal of an apartment in mind, Chris also worked with the Clubhouse on building his resume. Chris worked two Transitional Employment positions, where he was able to build stamina and a resume to help him with continued employment. In October of 2024, Chris was able to move into his Lewiston apartment. Which he found with the help of a Clubhouse colleague because it was only listed via word of mouth.
Now, almost a year later, Chris is finishing a transitional employment position in a major area retailer, where he works as a custodian. Chris hopes to be able to move into a part-time cleaning or maintenance position, with Clubhouse supports. Chris’ story is a powerful reflection of the Clubhouse Model in action. Chris’s shows that resilience, connection, and growth paired with the right support can make even the most challenging paths lead to a place of hope, community, and well-earned success.
