Consumer Run Drop In Centers

Consumer drop-in centers provide a wide range of services to consumers.  At their most basic, they offer a place that is accepting, safe, supportive, and normalizing; where consumers can feel needed and grow in self-worth, dignity, and self respect; and where they can learn about community support. Common characteristics include social and recreational programs, information and referral, and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on empowering and teaching consumers to be independent and involving them in providing support to other consumers.

New Directions Drop-In Center, Owosso, MI, was established in 1994 and is one of numerous Drop-In Centers in Michigan. While Drop-In Centers work in close cooperation with each county Community Mental Health, they are consumer run locations for self-help, advocacy, education, and a natural support towards recovery. Consumers develop their programs to supplement existing mental health services.

All persons with a mental illness, regardless of whether they are an open consumer, are eligible to become a member of New Directions. Persons interested in attending New Directions may call the center or “drop in” to talk to one of the staff about becoming a member. All persons accepted are assured of a lifetime membership.

At New Directions members come together to make friends, socialize or simply relax in a non-judgmental atmosphere of acceptance and understanding from others who have “been there.” It is often difficult to find these same qualities in clinical programs managed by professionals, or in their own families and the community at large.

Among the attractions found at New Directions are a lounge with big-screen satellite TV, a regulation size pool table, arts and craft room, and a complete equipped kitchen.  

A feature of New Directions, not found in all drop-in centers is a year round schedule of special events such as cook-outs, parties on all major holidays, and trips to various places of interest.  In January we are starting a monthly membership meeting where all members’ comments will be heard.  At these meetings we will also have our Birthday Recognition, recognizing everyone’s birthday for the month.  Once a month, we are having a Men’s Night and a Women’s Night with different activities according to what the members prefer.

Questions about New Directions: Peggy Smith @ 989-723-0875

Content Contributed By: Peggy Smith, Director, New Directions