On Our Own of Charlottesville

is a consumer-operated program for persons who acknowledge their status as consumers of mental health services. Many are also homeless, have issues of substance abuse, or are ex-offenders. They are often transient, live in shelters, or temporary housing arrangements. Some members choose to call themselves ex-inmates or survivors of long term psychiatric hospitalizations. Many of our members are clients of the local public mental health agency. All are part of the On Our Own community.

On Our Own of Charlottesville developed after a core group of consumers came together to discuss the unmet needs of individuals in the Charlottesville area and to advocate for changes within the mental health system. Each of these consumers, through their own experience, found that treatment often meant coercion, lack of choices, frightening experiences within hospital settings, and being constantly aware that if help was needed, then forces could be unleashed that would take away their liberty.

After much haggling, debating and plain discussion, agreement was reached to submit a grant proposal to establish a consumer run drop-in center. To the amazement of all the grant was written and awarded, and the Drop-In Center opened in July of 1990.

Everyone who came to the Center became involved. There was no money for paid staff. The money from the grant covered rent and utilities and any extra went for food and coffee. The hours were 4-6 pm, five days per week. The census during those first few months was about 10 persons per day, increasing within the first year to about 30 persons per day. Currently the census is over 50 per day and the Center is opened 365 days per year.

The most critical and important thing we worked on from the beginning was to develop and articulate a set of values which are the framework for all the growth we have experienced over the years. On Our Own of Charlottesville is a member run program. The force which drives the entire program is our commitment to provide services requested by the members, not imposed by others.

Though socializing was and is the most important function of the Center, we provide help with housing, food, clothing, furniture, transportation, getting medical or psychiatric services, applying for jobs, veteran’s benefits, social security, or food stamps – whatever members request. We hope members will become self reliant and if possible, help other members.

Services are organized around consumers, not places. There are no service plans and no documentation.

Outreach is essential as it helps to connect people with services. There are no appointments. We meet consumers at a variety of places: restaurants, the mall, houses, or the park.

A major role of On Our Own of Charlottesville is to advocate for positive change in the mental health system and attitudes toward consumers. Staff and members serve on the board of, or as consultants to, various state and local organizations.

On Our Own of Charlottesville has moved four times since 1990, each time to a larger place where we could provide additional services. The present Peer Support Center has become a model for consumers from other parts of Virginia who want to create centers in their communities.