College Relations

April 2, 2007

Contact: Margo W. R. Steiner at 978-542-7505 or margo.steiner@salemstate.edu

Congressman John F. Tierney (D-Salem) joins John Hayes (third from right) from Salem State College’s Chartwells Dining Service and representatives from Pioneer House at the National Clubhouse Employment Expansion Project Celebration in Washington, DC.

Salem, Mass. - U.S. Congressman John F. Tierney (D-Salem) presented an award of recognition on March 22 in Washington, D. C. to Salem State College’s Chartwells Dining Service. The award, honoring Chartwell’s twelve-year partnership with Pioneer House in Peabody, was presented as part of the National Clubhouse Employment Expansion Project celebration held on Capitol Hill.

"The advocacy and support network established by Pioneer House is an invaluable resource to members of our community. I am pleased to recognize Chartwells at Salem State for their partnership with Pioneer House and their dedication to providing meaningful employment to empower people coping with mental illnesses," said Tierney in his remarks.

Chartwells at Salem State College has employed members of Pioneer House since 1994. Pioneer House, part of the Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition, assists adults with major mental illnesses by expanding employment, housing, and educational opportunities for them in their communities. The transitional and supported employment programs offered by Chartwells help give members a stable and productive working experience.

The luncheon awards ceremony, held in the Cannon House Office Building, was co-hosted by the Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition, the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the International Center for Clubhouse Development. The event was part of the National Clubhouse Employment Expansion Project for people who have mental illness, and highlighted nationwide employment successes through Clubhouse support. There are over 200 Clubhouses in the United States, with four locations serving constituents of the Sixth District.