Community 43: Redefining Mental Health Care Through Connection

When it comes to mental health, connection really matters. Having a sense of community can be just as important as therapy or medication.

That’s what makes Community 43, a mental health outpatient clinic, so unique. It’s more than a place for support – it’s a place to belong, heal, and find purpose.

What makes Community 43 different from other outpatient facilities?

The clubhouse model!

“We brought the clubhouse model to Arizona,” Kara Cline, former CEO of Community 43, explained. “It’s an 85-year-old model based out of New York City and is recognized by the World Health Organization as the best model for mental health in the world.”

How it works

Everyone – no matter their diagnosis – has something to contribute to the community.

“Members work closely with staff in a work-ordered day,” Cline said. “We want them to have a sense of accomplishment and capability. Our goal is to help them build confidence and become more self-sufficient.”

Every day, members help with the website, work in the culinary unit, give tours, and more!

“If you were to come in and tour, you wouldn’t be able to tell who’s a member and who’s staff because they work closely together to run the organization,” Cline added.

With on-site medical and psychiatric support available, Community 43 blends the structure of care with the heart of a true community.

“There is real empowerment and efficacy in this model because our social practitioners meet every member where they’re at and give them a lot of choice.”

Watch the video

Funding from AZ Blue has supported Community 43’s mission to increase opportunities and end isolation for those most in need of mental health care. Community 43 recently received $1,000 as a finalist for the Courage in Action Awards at the AZ Blue Foundation State of Mind: 2024 Mental Health Summit.

Press play below, and visit their website to learn more or get connected: Community 43.