Several months ago I was invited to emcee a fundraiser dinner for the Waipahu Aloha Clubhouse. I respectfully declined because I am terrible at that sort of thing, but said I’d be interested in writing a story about the programs at the clubhouse if I could come see it and talk to people.

A visit was arranged and a story was written, and now I’m writing again about the fundraiser.

The Waipahu Aloha Clubhouse has been open since 1997, and though its service to members and the community at large is vital, it exists relatively quietly. People don’t know it’s out there on Waipio Point Access Road behind the high school; or if they do, they’re not sure what goes on inside.

Inside it’s busy but peaceful, with folks sitting in small groups working on projects or chatting while enjoying something to eat. There’s a feeling of camaraderie and ease throughout the single- story building. People seem glad to be there.

The clubhouse is a place for people with severe mental illness to spend their days doing meaningful work alongside friends who understand and support them. The Waipahu Aloha Clubhouse is one of nine in the state and one of about 300 across the country. Because of the clubhouse, hundreds of people diagnosed with several mental illness have been able to stay off the streets, stay safe and live stable, happy, productive lives.

On most days there are about 50 members in attendance, though total active membership is three times that. Close to 30 members are working at outside jobs in the community, jobs that they have trained for with clubhouse staff. Within the clubhouse there are different departments that are run by members. These include the food service unit, which provides two meals a day and dinner for special occasions; the facilities staff, which looks after the building and the grounds; and the career development team.

There is a small shop in the building where members can find bargains on donated clothing. With guidance received from the clubhouse, several members are enrolled in college. It is a hopeful place for people who may have had hopeless times. Everyone looks out for one another. They celebrate holidays together. They go as a group to memorial services for former members because they feel like family. That sort of community is precious, particularly for people who have suffered alone.

The clubhouse is a nonprofit organization, though the staff members are employees of the state. The proceeds from this fundraising event will go toward programs for the members.

So the fundraiser dinner: It’s on Friday, Oct. 26, at The Pacific Club with music, dancing and a silent auction. Clubhouse members will share their stories of how mental illness affected their lives and how they are able to progress in their recovery because of the support they find in the program. Individual tickets are $100 per person, and the deadline for purchase is today. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting waipahualohaclubhouse.org or by calling 265-2792.

Reach Lee Cataluna at 529-4315 or lcataluna@staradvertiser.com.