There have been many directors over the years. The director of the program in the 1980’s had the vision of transitioning the Renaissance Club from a social club to a clubhouse model program. She instituted work units within the Club based on the Fountain House model in New York City. The Club began offering members transitional employment jobs. In 1998, the Clubhouse came to its current home at 176 Walker Street in Lowell. The International Center for Clubhouse Development awarded the Clubhouse a three year certification for the first time in 2000 and then again in 2005. Those certifications represent the club’s fidelity to the standards developed by the International Center for Clubhouse Development.

In the past the Renaissance Club has always leased our space as we are doing now. Due to this we have had many homes over the years. At times this has limited our ability to serve our members effectively. We are currently providing services that include employment, education, and wellness. We have a work ordered day that engages members and staff in the work of the clubhouse, side by side. We have begun a youth outreach program to provide transitional support for the younger members of our mental health community. We currently serve over 250 members yearly within the Greater Lowell Area.

Due to our ever expanding membership and the growing needs of our members we are launching a Capital Campaign to raise the funds needed for a new Clubhouse building as well as building space for supported Clubhouse housing. Our current and beloved director Elaine Walker has had a vision of finding a means to build our own clubhouse. The Capital Campaign is our beginning step towards that end. Contact us at any time in regards to assisting us with Elaine’s vision of finding “a home of our own”.