Supporting Mental Health through Community and Care

“My name is Shannon Nicole, and I have been a member ofOasis Clubhouse since November 2024. Prior to being diagnosed withtreatment-resistant schizoaffective disorder, I worked as an emerging portraitpainter in the Oklahoma City area, participating in numerous local festivalsand gallery exhibitions. As my illness progressed, however, I gradually lostmuch of my ability to care for myself or maintain employment. I eventually lostmy home and my career and spent significant time in inpatient treatment facilities. Since joining Oasis and participating in the Clubhouseprogram, I have regained much of what I had lost. The Clubhouse has supportedme in securing housing, and I am now living independently. They have alsohelped me obtain essential documents and have provided a welcoming communityrooted in acceptance and mutual support. Through Oasis, I have receivedassistance with employment, and I am now working toward returning to part-timework. In addition to helping me stabilize and rebuild my life, theClubhouse recently allowed me to use CARC grant funding to purchase prints ofmy artwork, which I plan to sell through local galleries in Oklahoma City. Thesupport I have received from this organization has been invaluable, and I amhopeful to continue regaining my footing and strengthening my ability tothrive.”-Shannon 12.9.25 3.25Oasis Clubhouse has literally saved my life. Before joining,I struggled with sever isolation due to my conditions. Clubhouse has given mecommunity, routine, and a support system. The experience and impact has beeninvaluable. Thank you Clubhouse!

I am excited about Clubhouse because I get to be a part of a community of people who are like me, and we get to make a difference in our own recovery as well as others. We get to do the work of the Clubhouse and folks can get work experience that can lead to getting a job that can become a lifelong career. We can support each other's lifelong journey. Staff and members work together.

Before coming to Oasis Clubhouse, I spent much of my timealone.  I attended a weekly Bible studyand volunteered weekly at the Edmond Senior Center.  I knew I needed more social interaction thanthese activities provided.  I heard about Oasis through Edmond Life and Leisure newspaper.  I immediately submitted my application, andmy life has been 100% more fulfilling since then.  I thrive on routine and structure and Oasisprovides that.  We are one big Ohana(chosen family in Hawaiian).  I likeworking at the snack bar, doing data entry, laundry and communityoutreach.  I have made several friendsand have found the support and acceptance that I so desperately needed.  

Oasis gives me a place to be where I am wanted and needed. There aren't expectations on me. I come and they encourage me to get involved. Then I choose how I want to. It is so much easier when someone is working with you side by side.