Category: mental health

Stronger Together: Celebrating Community Partnerships

At Thrive, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Whether helping individuals secure stable housing through case management services or fostering connection and belonging through our Clubhouse community, our work is strengthened by partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to helping people live fuller, more connected lives. In this new newsletter feature, we are highlighting valued community partnerships that expand opportunities, strengthen support networks, and enrich the lives of those we serve.

One such partnership is with St. Gerard House, a fellow Henderson County nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and the people who care for them across Western North Carolina. Thrive and St. Gerard House work closely together to coordinate treatment planning and discuss goals for individuals who participate in both programs. The organizations also collaborate on group outings, including mall walks and picnics, creating opportunities for social engagement, friendship, and community connection.

“Partnerships like the one we have with St. Gerard House are invaluable to our mission,” said Chris Parker, Executive Director of Thrive. “When organizations come together, we are able to provide more meaningful opportunities, stronger support systems, and a greater sense of community for the individuals and families we serve. We simply accomplish more together than we ever could alone.”

Founded to serve individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families, St. Gerard House provides a wide range of support services, training, and consultations for families, caregivers, teachers, therapists, and others who play an important role in the lives of individuals with autism throughout Western North Carolina. Through education, advocacy, and direct support, the organization helps individuals with autism build skills, gain confidence, and reach their full potential.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Thrive and collaborate on one of our mutual clients,” said Donna Snow, Program Manager for Feed the Need at St. Gerard House. “I have been truly impressed by Adam and the entire team. Adam thoughtfully arranged for each staff member to spend a shadow day at Feed the Need, and I believe the experience was valuable for everyone involved. What stands out most is how deeply they care about their clients and the dedication they bring to supporting them.”

Creating a More Sustainable Way to Make a Difference

At Thrive, the needs we see do not follow a calendar.

Mental and behavioral health challenges do not pause between fundraising events. Housing instability does not wait for a convenient time. Every day, individuals in our community face obstacles that can affect their stability, sense of connection, and ability to move forward.

That reality prompted Thrive to take a fresh look at how we invite support for our mission.

Beginning this year, Thrive is shifting away from large annual fundraising events and focusing its fundraising efforts through DreamBuilders, a giving community designed to provide consistent, year-round support for the work taking place every day through Thrive’s Clubhouse and Housing Case Management programs.

“Ultimately, this decision came down to wanting our fundraising approach to reflect the realities of the people we serve,” said Chris Parker, Executive Director of Thrive.

“The challenges our participants face do not occur once a year. They happen every day. DreamBuilders allows us to build a stronger foundation of support that helps us respond to those needs in a more consistent and meaningful way.”

Through the Clubhouse, individuals navigating mental and behavioral health challenges find connection, purpose, and a supportive community. Through Housing Case Management, individuals and families facing housing instability receive guidance and support that helps them maintain stability and avoid deeper crises.

While these programs remain central to Thrive’s work, DreamBuilders is ultimately about the impact they create.

Every contribution helps strengthen connections, restore stability, and support a path forward for individuals who are often navigating some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

DreamBuilders offers flexible support options through annual or monthly recurring gifts, allowing donors to participate in a way that feels meaningful and sustainable for them.

Some supporters may choose to stay connected through occasional gatherings and opportunities to learn more about Thrive’s work. Others may prefer to support quietly behind the scenes. Both approaches are valued, and both make a difference.

For Thrive, DreamBuilders is more than a fundraising initiative. It is a community of individuals, businesses, and organizations that share a belief that no one should have to navigate life’s challenges alone.

By investing in connection, stability, and opportunity, DreamBuilders helps ensure that Thrive can continue serving individuals and families when support is needed most.

Become a dreambuilder today

Mental Health Awareness Starts with Conversation

Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month encourages us to pause and reflect on something that affects every community, every family, and more individuals than many people realize.

Even with growing awareness, stigma around mental and behavioral health challenges still exists. People often hesitate to talk openly about anxiety, depression, trauma, isolation, or periods of instability because they fear judgment, misunderstanding, or being treated differently. Families may struggle to know how to help. Friends may worry about saying the wrong thing. Too often, silence becomes the default.

In my work with individuals, I have seen firsthand how powerful it can be when people feel safe enough to be honest about their experiences. Healing and progress often begin with connection, trust, and the knowledge that you do not have to navigate difficult seasons alone.

At Thrive, that belief is at the center of our work every day.

Mental health support is not only about responding during moments of crisis. It is also about helping individuals build stability, routine, confidence, relationships, and a sense of belonging over time. Sometimes the most meaningful progress happens in ordinary moments, sharing a meal, participating in a group activity, securing stable housing, reconnecting with community, or simply knowing someone is willing to listen.

Through programs like our Clubhouse and housing stabilization services, Thrive works alongside individuals as they navigate real-life challenges. Our goal is not to “fix” people. It is to support people as they build lives that feel sustainable, connected, and hopeful.

One of the most important things we can do as a community is to continue reducing the stigma around mental health conversations. Seeking support should never be viewed as a weakness. In reality, reaching out often takes tremendous strength.

Mental health challenges do not define a person, and no one should feel they have to face them alone.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage all of us to lead with compassion, check in on the people around us, and help create spaces where honest conversations can happen without shame or fear.

At Thrive, we remain committed to building a community where support, stability, and connection are possible for everyone..

Help People Find Stability and a Way Forward

Now Hiring YOU!

At Thrive, we believe that stable housing is more than a place to live. It is the foundation for healing, independence, and long-term well-being.

That is why we are growing our team.

We are currently hiring an additional Housing Stabilization Specialist to support individuals and families in securing safe, stable housing and building the skills needed to maintain it. This work sits at the heart of what we do, walking alongside people as they navigate some of the most challenging moments in their lives.

In this role, you are not just helping someone find housing. You are helping them rebuild. You are listening to their story, understanding the barriers they face, and working together to create a plan for stability. You are advocating, problem-solving, and connecting people to the resources they need to move forward with confidence.

Housing Stabilization Specialists work closely with clients to develop individualized plans, strengthen independent living skills, and ensure that once housing is secured, it can be sustained. The goal is not just placement, it is lasting stability.

You will also collaborate with landlords, housing partners, and community resources, helping to bridge gaps and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

This role requires compassion, attention to detail, and the ability to build trust. It is well-suited for someone who is both a strong communicator and a thoughtful listener, someone who can work independently while being part of a supportive, mission-driven team.

At Thrive, we are committed to creating an environment where our staff feel supported, valued, and connected to the impact of their work. Every day, you will see the difference you are making, not just in outcomes, but in people’s lives.

If you are looking for work that is meaningful, challenging, and deeply rewarding, we invite you to learn more.

Apply today

Having Pride… Even When the World Feels Overwhelming

It’s June again, and Pride month this year may feel uniquely challenging for many in our community. For some, this month brings bold feelings of empowerment. For others, this time may feel darker, scarier, and overwhelming – especially when facing personal struggles that can make celebrating feel difficult.

The Reality We Face

Though being part of the LGBTQ+ community is in no way a mental illness, many people who identify as LGBTQ+ experience mental health struggles. About 4.5% of the US population identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. Of these individuals, 39% report living with a mental illness – that’s nearly 5.8 million people in the US alone who need support.

The challenges extend far beyond mental health awareness. A majority of people who responded to a survey conducted by Mental Health America say that they or someone they love who is LGBTQ+ have been threatened, harassed, or experienced violence due to their sexuality or gender identity.

The employment discrimination is staggering: 59% of respondents feel they have fewer employment opportunities or have experienced discrimination in pay due to their LGBTQ+ identity. This economic instability directly impacts housing security and overall well-being.

In addition, 22% of transgender individuals reported avoiding medical care out of concern about discrimination. This avoidance of care compounds existing challenges and creates cycles that are difficult to break without comprehensive support.

Breaking Down Barriers to Care

When it comes to mental health care and housing services, a lack of cultural understanding, stigma, and discriminatory practices can decrease the quality and effectiveness of support. This leaves individuals feeling unsupported and discourages them from seeking the help they desperately need.

A housing first approach recognizes that stable housing is fundamental to addressing mental health, employment, and other life challenges. For LGBTQ+ individuals facing multiple forms of discrimination, finding safe support becomes even more critical.

We’re Here for You

At Thrive in Hendersonville, we welcome all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, or economic status. To us, people are people. Everyone has a unique background, perspective, struggles, and needs that deserve respect and comprehensive support.

Our programs are designed to meet you exactly where you are, providing individualized care to help you build a foundation for stability and growth.

Our Housing Program provides support for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Our case managers work one-on-one with clients to discover their unique needs and create a plan for the best chance of success.

Our Clubhouse Program offers a mental health day program for adults diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness. This program provides a supportive environment where all identities are celebrated, not stigmatized. Our day program serves as a vital resource for building connections and developing skills to reach individual goals.

Both programs work with each person to create personalized plans that address their unique circumstances and goals.

Additional Resources for LGBTQ+ Support

For more specified help, here are a few national resources that may help:

Remember, Pride isn’t just about celebration – it’s about resilience, community, and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. Whether you’re facing housing challenges, mental health struggles, or simply need a supportive community, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.

Want to learn more about our programs or how you can get involved? Contact us at 828-697-1581 today.

A group of people throwing confetti and laughing with a rainbow pride flag in the background.

Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month: Promoting Wellness and Recovery in Western NC

Green ribbon stretches across the screen with "May is Mental Health Awareness Month" as the title

May is a special month for all of us at Thrive and for communities across the nation. Since it’s establishment in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) has been dedicated to raising awareness about the crucial role mental health plays in our overall well-being. For over 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has led this important initiative, providing valuable resources and information to support individuals and communities in need.

As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the importance of mental health in our lives. Mental wellness is just as vital as physical health, and this month serves as a reminder that recovery is possible and should be celebrated.

At the Clubhouse Day Program, we are proud to be part of this movement. Our program supports adults with severe and persistent mental illness, helping them learn essential skills, set and achieve personal goals, and build meaningful relationships. By providing a safe and supportive environment, we empower our members to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.

This May, we encourage you to join us in raising awareness and advocating for mental health. Whether it’s sharing resources, participating in local events, or simply having an open conversation about mental wellness, every action counts. Together, we can create a community where mental health is prioritized and celebrated.

If you or someone you know needs support, please give us a call at 828-697-1581 to see if the Clubhouse is a good fit!

Let’s use Mental Health Awareness Month as an opportunity to connect, support, and inspire each other. Remember, mental health matters every day of the year, and together, we can make a difference.

#YouMatterHendo

It’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!

March has been officially proclaimed as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina, and we’re honored to be part of this crucial initiative!

Developmental disabilities are lifelong conditions that typically arise in childhood and can affect various aspects of an individual’s life, from communication to independent living.

Some examples of developmental disabilities include:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Down Syndrome

It’s staggering to think that approximately 16 million Americans live with developmental disabilities. Nearly 200,000 of these individuals live in North Carolina alone. With developmental disabilities affecting so many people, raising awareness is critical. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure they have access to the resources they need to thrive!

At our Clubhouse, we’re dedicated to empowering those with developmental disabilities to build essential life skills, foster relationships, and take charge of their well-being. Through our programs, we create a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential!

This month, we challenge you to take a moment to think about how you can make a difference in the life of someone with a developmental disability. Together, let’s work towards a more inclusive society where everyone is valued and supported!

To read Governor Cooper’s proclamation, click here.

For more information about Thrive’s Clubhouse Day Program, click here.

To learn more about developmental disabilities, visit some of the resources below:

Behavioral Healthcare in Hendersonville – What are your options?

How is your mental health these days? I bet if someone asked you that question, you would probably have quite a lot to say on the subject. I would also guess that your answer may change from day to day, and maybe even moment to moment. The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown everyone for a loop and brought to light many challenges in most of our daily lives. For some folks, mental health has really been difficult to maintain since the onset of the pandemic and the many stressors that have come along with it.

At Thrive, our main focus is mental health. We believe that it is really difficult to be successful in many areas of life if your mental health is suffering, so we work hard to help our clients get the mental healthcare they need. One thing we are seeing since the pandemic started, is an increase across the board in people who report symptoms of mental illness. Prior to the pandemic, the number of people who reported symptoms of mental illness each year was about 1 in 5, or 20%. Throughout 2020, that number increased to 30% of people reporting symptoms of mental illness. More people are struggling than ever before, which is totally understandable when you consider the conditions we have been living with for the past year and a half. The question becomes, then, what can be done to improve people’s mental health?

Thrive offers help for people with severe and persistent mental illness at our Clubhouse Day Program. This program has been providing mental health services in Henderson County since 1983, and the program has helped hundreds of people to move from surviving to thriving in the community. At the Clubhouse, staff work side-by-side with members with a focus on “doing with” rather than “doing for.” Clubhouse staff know how important it is for members to have a voice and a say in the day-to-day decisions. At the Clubhouse, members work to improve vocational skills, learn daily living skills like cooking, and learn how to have healthy relationships. Members experience fewer hospitalizations and law enforcement contacts as a result of attending the Clubhouse.

While the Clubhouse is great for some people, it isn’t the right fit for everyone who is experiencing symptoms of mental illness. Thrive is so thankful for our community partners who also offer people help with mental healthcare, like AdventHealth. AdventHealth offers both in-patient and out-patient treatment options for behavioral healthcare in our community, which means that patients can easily access the level of care they need to be well.

At AdventHealth, there is a focus on Whole-Person Care – body, mind and spirit. On the website, AdventHealthNC.com, you will see many references to Whole-Person Care as they describe the many services offered to strengthen the body, mind, and spirit and encourage overall wellness. The behavioral health care services offered at AdventHealth are extensive. There are options for individual, group, and family therapy, pediatric and geriatric psychiatric services, relaxation therapy, therapeutic crafts, and many others. They have psychiatrists and psychologists available and they offer in-patient and out-patient services for behavioral health. They also offer Primary Care Behavioral Health which provides seamless access to behavioral health care for patients who share concerns with their primary care providers. Primary care providers, who often have a long-term and trusted relationship with their patients, can play a key role in assessing the need for and providing behavioral health interventions.

In August, AdventHealth expanded this collaborative care to even more patients through a partnership with Concert Health. AdventHealth Hendersonville was a pilot for this program. “It has been a dream come true to embed this facet of patient care within our offices,” said Kelley Singer, MD, director of physician quality and physician enterprise for AdventHealth Hendersonville. “Patients visibly relax with relief as they learn behavioral health professionals practice within the same location. The willingness to engage with our psychiatrists or psychologists is almost 100% now, contrasting with almost never in the past.”

Hendersonville is so lucky to have multiple options for mental health care available in our very own community, but we have to spread the word! It is crucial that we ensure people actually know about their options for mental health. We need to make sure that people know who they can call if they need help or if they are concerned about the mental health of a loved one. Share the information; talk about it with your friends and family. Let’s normalize mental health care, so that anyone who needs help knows who to call and is not afraid to ask for help when they need it.

AdventHealth – A Great Community Partner to Thrive!

The staff and board members at Thrive are getting ready for our biggest fundraiser of the year – 9th Annual Bids & Blues on October 12. This year has been a very strange one with COVID and all sorts of events being cancelled or made virtual. Thrive has decided to make this event in-person, but a Drive-In where people can come and listen to music from their car. Thrive staff are very excited that we have found a way to keep this event in-person, but still safe for the people attending, and we have all been hard at work to find sponsors for the event and raise funds for Thrive’s essential programs.

Thrive is so incredibly thankful that our presenting sponsor for Bids & Blues will again be AdventHealth. When asked why AdventHealth has chosen to support Thrive at the highest level yet again, Assistant to the President, Graham Fields, replied with the following quote:


“AdventHealth is honored to partner with Thrive to address Behavioral Health needs in Henderson County. This growing whole-person care need was identified as a top priority in the AdventHealth Community Health Needs Assessment. In addition to serving clients through our inpatient Women’s Behavioral Health unit and outpatient behavioral health clinics, AdventHealth also partners with Thrive to enhance the county’s community-based mental health system to fully support relationship-based, personalized care and maintain services for the chronically mentally-ill in the area. Thrive also helps address another priority in the Community Health Needs Assessment through its efforts to connect clients to safe and affordable housing in the community.”

We at Thrive are so humbled by these words, and we are so thankful that we have a partner like AdventHealth Hendersonville to help us work toward better mental health in Henderson County. Many people do not realize how extensive the incredible mental healthcare services are at AdventHealth. AdventHealth Hendersonville offers both inpatient and outpatient Behavioral Health services, including care specifically for patients of their Primary Care Providers. Through this innovative model of care, AdventHealth’s Primary Care Behavioral Health Providers work with the established patient’s primary care provider for those who are 18 and older and experience behavioral health concerns, including depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychosis.

Many of the individuals who receive behavioral health care at AdventHealth Hendersonville also attend the Thrive Clubhouse – a day program for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. At the Clubhouse, members can get help with daily living skills, relationship skills, and work skills. The services members receive at the Clubhouse work hand-in-hand with behavioral healthcare services from AdventHealth Hendersonville to provide that whole-person care that Fields mentioned.

AdventHealth Hendersonville has some unique inpatient care options, including a behavioral health unit dedicated to women only, ages 18 and older. AdventHealth’s Women’s Behavioral Health Unit offers all private, newly renovated rooms and a variety of treatments including:
Depression
Dual Diagnosis/ Drug Addiction
Anxiety and panic attacks
Bipolar disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Trauma
Co-dependency
Grief and loss
Dissociative identity disorders
Sexual abuse issues

Another amazing offering from AdventHealth is the Inpatient Geriatric Behavioral Health unit, which is currently being renovated. This service offers a full range of behavioral and mental health services to assist older adults ages 55+ through the difficult circumstances that many aging adults face. Treatment includes individual and group therapy as well as medication management to improve the patients’ ability to live independently or function comfortably in an institutional setting. Because many older adults with behavioral or cognitive disorders also suffer physical distress, the Geriatric Behavioral Health program at AdventHealth offers a comprehensive assessment of medications, physical and psychiatric diagnoses and assessment of functional abilities.

Thrive would like to say thank you, once again, to AdventHealth Hendersonville for their continued support as the presenting sponsors of the 9th Annual Bids & Blues. If you would like to attend this exciting event, purchase your tickets today. Find more information about Bids & Blues at https://thrive4health.org/welcome/bids-blues/.

To learn more about AdventHealth’s Outpatient Behavioral Health Services, please call 828-650-8232. For information about our Inpatient Behavioral Health Services, please call 828-681-2288.