1991

GAC Founded

A coalition of 23 community groups—including psychiatric patients, families, advocates, providers, and citizens—founded GAC in Milwaukee.

1993

Employment Program Begins

GAC’s Employment Program began with a messenger position at Foley & Lardner. We now have SEs & TEs at over 9 different locations.

1994

Clubhouse International

GAC joined a network of Clubhouses that founded Clubhouse International, a global organization for teaching, advocacy, and accreditation.

Clubhouse International continues to accredit Clubhouses worldwide.

1997

Education Program Begins

Via this program members attend MATC, Marquette, MATC, and other local educational institutions) to reach vocational goals or for self-enrichment.

1998

Housing Assistance Begins

GAC help members find safe, affordable housing. GAC has a certified benefits specialist who assists in navigating housing options tailored to their needs.

2001

New Location

GAC moved to 210 E Michigan Street where we still reside to this day. Our building is one of the oldest buildings in Milwaukee.

2019

Water St Boutique

GAC launches a stylish, affordable clothing shop that is open to the public, in the same building. All proceeds are invested into GAC programming.

2022

Community Mural above Water St Entrance

A mural by Milwaukee artist Tia Richardson, created with GAC members, celebrates recovery, community, and creativity.

2023

RMU Remodel

Design for a Difference team transforms the Retail Management Unit into a more functional and inspiring space, boosting pride and productivity.

2023

Rebrand

GAC and Nelson-Schmidt unveil GAC’s fresh logo and exterior sign, reflecting the Club’s vibrant community and forward-looking mission.

2025

Building Renovations

GAC remodels the Culinary Unit for functionality and greater accessibility to accommodate even more members working in the brightened unit.

2025

Culinary Remodel Complete

Renovations included knocking down walls, installing a walk in fridge and freezer, new serving station and appliances and new flooring and shelving systems.

The Origin of the Clubhouse Model

The term “Clubhouse” originates from the language used to describe the vision and work of Fountain House, the first Clubhouse, established in New York City in 1948. Fountain House began when a group of former patients from a psychiatric hospital started meeting informally—as a kind of “club”—to support one another. From the very beginning, the emphasis was not on treatment or services, but on community, belonging, and mutual support for people living with mental illness.

This approach laid the foundation for what is now known as the Clubhouse Model, which is centered on membership and inclusion rather than clinical care. The message of belonging is embedded in the very word “Clubhouse,” making it a powerful symbol of the model’s values.

Today, the model is overseen by Clubhouse International, and there are more than 320 accredited Clubhouses operating in approximately 30 countries worldwide. In Milwaukee County, the Grand Avenue Club proudly serves as the only accredited Clubhouse, continuing the legacy of Fountain House by offering a supportive community for individuals living with mental illness.

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