In 1998, members of NAMI set out to develop a network of coordinated support and rehabilitation services for adults with mental illness in Guilford County. Several years later, their vision became reality when the doors of Sanctuary House opened on April 23, 2002.
Nestled in historic downtown Greensboro, Sanctuary House is proud to be one of twelve clubhouse model programs in North Carolina and among 400 such programs around the world. A private nonprofit (501c3), Sanctuary House provides psychosocial rehabilitation emphasizing the Fountain House model.
Sanctuary House was established to provide a place of comfort, belonging and inspiration to those who experience mental illness and has rapidly evolved into a close-knit, uniquely supportive community. Each day, members and staff work closely together to learn new skills, build confidence, gain a greater sense of independence and pride, and prepare for a purposeful, rewarding life.
Sanctuary House membership is currently over 400 persons working alongside a skilled, dedicated staff. Membership is open to anyone with a history of major mental illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, psychotic disorder, or major depression. Vital issues and programming decisions are discussed at daily open meetings, encouraging members to voice their opinions and have greater autonomy in their own lives.
Members do not live at Sanctuary House but use it as a base of community support in their efforts to recover from the effects of mental illness. Offering a new and innovative learning community, Sanctuary House is organized into programs that allow members to work alongside staff members on their journey. For many members, participation in these programs presents the first opportunity to ease into work and social integration.
Sanctuary House programs include: