Pacific Clinics hosted an open house to celebrate the launch of its newest and fifth Clubhouse in the city of Yucaipa. The event welcomed community members, local official representatives and employees for an introduction to the site.
The Yucaipa Clubhouse provides a community-led environment where adults can access mental health support, build meaningful relationships and take part in personal development through art classes, community events and daily lunches.
Local guests included Will Boyd from Senator Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh’s office; Scott Ward from San Bernardino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe’s office; Ryan Miller, housing and economic analyst from Yucaipa’s economic development division; Bobby Duncan and Taylor Pearson from the Yucaipa Chamber of Commerce; and Maribel Gutierrez and Kristen Mungcal from the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health. Also in attendance were a paramedic and an engineer from CalFire.
Mary Ruhter, president of the Yucaipa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, served as emcee and introduced several Pacific Clinics employees, including Maria Murillo, executive director of behavioral health; Mauricio Cruz, program director; Clint Lewis, team supervisor and Mathew Talley, team supervisor. Also present were Kim Wells, chief legal officer and Rachel Clausen, senior vice president of administration.
During the program, Clint Lewis, team supervisor, spoke about the value of local, community-based mental health support. He shared, “I know firsthand how important it is to have a community behind you that cares about your well-being. At Pacific Clinics, many of us have our own lived experiences. That’s why we are so proud to offer this space in Yucaipa.”
Clint also announced that, as part of Pacific Clinics’ ongoing commitment to member inclusion in the development of its Clubhouses, all members had the opportunity to help name the latest Clubhouse – the C.A.R.E. (Consumer Advocacy, Recovery and Encouragement Center) Center.
The warmth and openness of the space were felt throughout the afternoon with community, comfort and connection.