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In 2005, HOMES organized the first Mountain Respite Camp for residents and alumni. This was a weekend excursion to the San Bernadino Mountains for 35 clients, who enjoyed a climbing course, archery, arts & crafts, campfire program, and other activities. The subsidized cost of $70 per person included transportation, two nights’ lodging in a cabin, all food and activities for the weekend. Through donations, several campers who could not afford to pay received full or partial scholarships. The camp was such a great success, in 2006 it was extended to three nights and 52 mentally ill individuals attended. In addition to HOMES residents and alumni, clients from other mental health agencies were invited to participate, creating an opportunity for people to make new friends. New activities included mountain bikes and volleyball. In 2007, Camp participation expanded again and 73 clients participated. This year clients enjoyed the services of a masseuse and a trip to nearby Jenks Lake as well as all the previous activities. For the first time, participants were able to earn scholarships to camp through volunteer work for HOMES. In 2008, 82 campers attended the annual event! The Mountain Respite Camp provides clients with a “vacation from mental illness,” as one participant expressed it. The emphasis is on relaxation, socialization, and the opportunity to challenge oneself with new activities. All Orange County mental health clients are invited to apply for the annual HOMES Mountain Respite Camp. If you attended camp in 2008, please don't forget about our reunion.
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23% of American adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder, and of those with a severe mental illness, one in 20 is homeless. Five to seven percent of mentally ill adults are currently institutionalized, but most can live independently with supportive services such as those provided by HOMES. Although it is a local organization, HOMES works to increase national awareness of housing problems faced by the mentally ill. HOMES staff members take part in events that educate others about the challenges posed by fulfilling the housing needs of the mentally ill, including those who are homeless, and ways to overcome them. Events include: |
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Family members and clients are typical attendees at many of these events. Others include community groups who work with Orange County’s mentally ill population such as law enforcement, hospitals, clinics and mental health providers. Pharmaceutical companies also participate in many of these activities. |
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| Every year, the mental health community of Orange County hosts a picnic for mental health clients and their family at Centennial Regional Park in Santa Ana. The picnic includes free food and drinks for all attendees, live concert and dancing, carnival and group games, face painting, and the famous watermelon eating contest. Click here to see pictures from this year's event. | |
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| An organization dedicated to advancing community values, the annual events held by H.O.M.E.S. sustain community involvement. Engaging events that inspire attendees to come back year after year ensure that the H.O.M.E.S. board and staff increase community awareness of its mission and strengthen its ability to serve. At these events one can experience the energetic, friendly spirit that has enabled H.O.M.E.S to be successful. | |
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