Spotlight on Our Staff and Members!

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we wanted to take a moment to thank our wonderful staff and members for their hard work and dedication. Through their enthusiastic efforts, New Foundation Center has become more than an organization, it's a home and supportive community for our members and staff alike. They have greatly contributed to our success and we are just so eager to brag about them!

Gail Fried, Master of Arts in Art Therapy (MAAT), Creative Arts Therapist (CAT), started as a volunteer when there was no art program. Gail had never worked in a clubhouse setting before and wasn’t sure if she would like it – that was 14 years ago. Now Gail says, “I feel like it’s my home – there aren’t many places like this and I hope I never leave.”

Gail leads a group called the Out Group – she and members go and visit galleries, museums, street fairs, and art festivals. “The more art you see – the more you learn about art and the more art you make,” states Gail. Gail has watched many members change and grow their artistic style over the years. “We try different things – forms and media – so we don’t get stuck,” Gail says.

And looking at the beautiful pieces on display throughout the clubhouse – Gail has succeeded.

Jeff Wendt joined New Foundation Center 12 years ago at a time when he was very sick and wouldn’t leave his house or talk. Jeff’s case worker, Wendy, visited him in his home and suggested he try going to the clubhouse. Reluctantly Jeff took her advice and was surprised to find a place where he could go, meet people, make friends and accept that he had a mental illness. “Wendy helped me open-up and that was a big help. She put a lot of effort into me,” adds Jeff.

Today Jeff is proud that he has stayed out of the hospital for 10 years by using tools he’s learned, like taking his meds and seeking help when he needs it. Jeff is a leader often facilitating member council meetings, daily morning meetings and co-leading a dual-diagnosis group.

Jeff has worked hard at his recovery and today he is strong! Way to go Jeff!

Our staff and members continue to be a source of inspiration for all of us at New Foundation Center.