Present: Alley Giangrande, Jeannie Storrs, Jim Hohman, David Roth, Neil Zanni, Michelle & Derek Jones, Kelli Rooney and Maila Berry
Alley called the meeting to order at 7:37 a.m.
Pledge of Allegiance: David Roth
Reflection Moment or Song: None
Speaker:
Alley introduced our very own Rotary club members - Tammy & Lisa to talk about their place of work, Open Sky's Crystal House Clubhouse. It is an internationally accredited clubhouse dedicated to the rehabilitation of adults recovering from mental illness. This organization has been around since 1940 and was 1st established in NY in 1948. Currently, they have 36 organizations in MA and over 370 around 32 countries. MA and MI has the most within the state. Their mission is - Blending best practices with the power of community, we partner with individuals and families to see beyond and live beyond perceived limitations to pursue fulfilling lives. Their role is to help the people they serve whether it is mental illness, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, Autism, homelessness and other complex challenges within a non-judgement zone. They need to pose no threat, must be willing to paticipate and a clinical observation is needed to determine level of need. It is state funded and DMH funded. The average people that in come in daily is about 25-30. Tammy spoke about the different units - Business & Membership Units, Hospitality Unit and Environment/Facilities Unit. Some of these club members can pursue employment and education. Lisa gave a quick summary on the help she has recived at the clubhouse and her personal journey. She has even completed her 1st semester of school!! The clubhouse also offers a 12-step addiction program in conjuction with a mental illness (need to be evaluated to have both). Headquartered in Worcester , Open Sky employs 1200 staff and serves over 5,000 people per year in 100 programs located throughout Central Mass. Tammy shared a youtu.be link in our Rotary chat on members sharing their experiences.
Agenda Items that were discussed:
5/10/25 - Mother's Day Flower sale from 930-2. It will be at Fidelity Bank in Leominster (across street from Post Office). We will sell them for $30 and smaller plants will be $15. Alley was getting time slots from everyone. We did get the Rotary branded pop-up tent in time for Saturday, Jeannie will bring sandwich board and we do have the square to accept for debit cards.Tammy can come get a dozen plants to sell at her Gardner event the same day if she wishes. Any direct funds raised at flower sale in Gardner by Tammy & Lisa will go to the Crystal Club House. Alley made motion and Kelli 2nd and all accepted.
5/16/25 - Rotary District 7910 Installation Ceremony, invitation was sent. RSVP by 6/3, early bird special by 5/1.
5/17/25 - District Conference - business meeting held in afternoon, need delegates.
6/5/25 - Cormier Park cleanup - 1st week in June, how about from 9-12 in lieu of meeting
6/21 - 6/22: RYLA Maddy registered kids for this event.
9/2025 - JAF (Johnny Appleseed Festival) Maddy is sending letter to register on behalf of the club.
Speakers:
May 8th: No meeting
May 15th: BOD Meeting
Next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025 at All One Credit Union., 20 Adams St. Leominster @ 7:30 a.m.
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