Clubhouse Unit Leader Michael Koslow to hike Pacific Crest Trail and raise money for Thrive along the way.
(Hendersonville, NC – January, 2014) Thrive Executive Director Kristen Martin announced today that one of her staff members plans to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in April and raise money for Thrive Clubhouse with every mile walked. Michael Koslow, a Unit Leader at the Clubhouse, will begin his 2,633 mile thru-hike on April 29 and is seeking donations for each mile hiked. His goal is to raise $10,000 for the Clubhouse program, appealing to philanthropic organizations, hiking groups, and individuals personally touched by mental illness.
Thrive is a local nonprofit dedicated to helping adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses move from merely surviving to thriving. “Our programs enrich members’ lives as they develop the skills critical to becoming socially and vocationally integrated into society,” said Martin. “For an agency like ours hit hard by budget cuts in the past year, Michael’s fundraising effort is greatly appreciated.”
For many of the Thrive community, the Clubhouse plays a vital role in their lives. The Clubhouse demonstrates that people with mental illness can successfully participate in society through education, employment, and other social activities. The Clubhouse offers prevocational work-ordered day programs; social and recreational programming; holiday support; and individualized services to its members.
Tricia, a participant in the Clubhouse program, shares why it’s important to her to keep Thrive alive and thriving. “I began to have panic attacks and symptoms of bipolar disorder about 5 years ago. With the support of my family, the Thrive staff members were able to help me learn to socialize again and to learn what it takes for me to feel
healthy. I was my own worst enemy before I began here and now I want to be a role model for others that are just beginning their recovery journey.”
Individuals or organizations who are interested in contributing can make direct donations by check to Thrive, with the memo line “Thru-hike for Thrive.” To learn more information about this nonprofit or to make a general donation, please visit thrive4health.org or call 697-1581. You can also follow Michael’s journey on the Thrive Facebook page at thrive4health.