OASAS announced the grand opening of the TC Commons Youth Clubhouse in Elmira (Chemung County) on October 25th. The new clubhouse, which is operated by Trinity of Chemung County provides a place for young people in recovery or at risk for addiction to develop social skills that promote long-term health, wellness, and a drug-free lifestyle. The clubhouse is funded through a $244,700 grant from OASAS.

“Young people in recovery or at risk for addiction need a safe haven that supports their sobriety,” said OASAS Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez. “The clubhouses provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for people to get support from their peers and services that encourage and promote substance-free living.” The clubhouse provides a community-based, non-clinical setting for promoting long-term recovery through skill building, recreation, education, wellness, evidence-based prevention programs and other social activities. Services offered include mentoring, life-skills training, job readiness and musical instruction. Clubhouse participants will also work with and support each other to achieve personal and recovery-specific goals.

Youth clubhouses are part of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s multi-pronged efforts to address substance use disorders in New York State. By the end of this year, there will be 15 clubhouses operating throughout the state.

The TC Commons Youth Clubhouse is located at 650 Baldwin Street in Elmira. It will be open Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. during the school year and Monday through Friday from
9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. during school breaks and in the summer.