As speech and occupational therapists, we work with brain injury survivors daily in a medical setting. In this role, we get to know people closely, form relationships, and work hard to help survivors meet their goals. Sometimes, people are not able to get back to work, driving, or other activities that are important to them, like volunteering in their community. Time and time again, we see people return to therapy because there is “no where else to go.” After finishing therapy, many brain injury survivors find they decline because they are no longer physically or mentally active, including not participating in engaging activities. Many survivors tell us they just sit at home when therapy ends.

We got tired of hearing this. We got tired of seeing people we know and love struggle to find themselves again after a brain injury. We got frustrated. It is very difficult as therapists to not have the proper resources and referrals in your own community to help guide survivors in continued healing. We researched for a solution. This is how we found the Clubhouse model. We were officially sold. After learning more about the model and eventually attending training presented by Clubhouse International, we were DEFINITELY sold.

We came to the realization that the medical model is not the only resource for those with brain injuries. Traditional therapy methods certainly have their place, but we know people are not able to stay in therapy forever. People need time to heal, but insurance companies do not always give them that time. We also understand that brain injuries will affect people for the rest of their lives; recognizing that this is a chronic condition even though it is not yet seen this way in the medical world. Brain injury survivors need a new solution. Therefore, we formed the FIRST brain injury Clubhouse in the state of Iowa.

— Founding Empower House Members