A Celebration of Community

Giving thanks for life’s blessings is one hallmark of the holiday spirit. In Fall River, Mass., May Institute’s Towne House Clubhouse, a community of adults living with mental illness, did just that over a pre-Thanksgiving dinner: they graciously thanked area residents for accepting and supporting their efforts to overcome the stigma of mental illness, reintegrate into society, and have successful lives.

Local Fall River politicians and state representatives joined Clubhouse members in serving Thanksgiving dinner to family, friends, and the community. Area businesses donated the food and fixings. More than 300 Fall River residents attended the annual celebration of appreciation — truly a community effort in the spirit of Thanksgiving. A story about the gathering was published in the Thanksgiving day issue of the Fall River Herald News.

May Institute’s Towne House Clubhouse is an advocate for employment, community integration, and educational and recreational activities for Fall River residents living with mental illness.