Mental illness is almost a taboo subject in our culture; something we rarely speak about, rarely understand, but often avoid and stereotype. This stigma renders the issue as being invisible, except when tragedy strikes. It is seen through the lens of diagnosis and symptom and dismissed as incurable, lost and hopeless.

Employment Options Inc., a psychosocial Clubhouse situated in the heart of Massachusetts, has seen beyond the mental illness and the stigma, and supported various wonderful people through their journey of fighting mental illness. After 10 years of dedicated service and encouragement, the need to create a permanent memory of their experiences arose. Thanks to the thoughtful participation and cooperation of so many, Voices of Hope was created.

Voices of Hope is many things to Options — a tale of inspiration, courage and strength, a tribute to supportive relationships, a reflection on the journey to recovery, and most of all…a memoir that moves every heart.

This book is a celebration of the human spirit. It marks the continuing journey of 23 ordinary people of extraordinary spirit, who live with mental illness. Told through their personal stories and thoughts, it recounts a determination to actively participate in life despite the barriers created by illness and by the stigma rampant in our culture.

This book also celebrates a place - Employment Options Inc. - a community remarkable for its capacity to accept and honor members and their past difficulties and for its focus on the positive values of recovery. Through its many varied and creative programs, Options provides opportunities and assistance in the areas of employment, education, parenting, recreation, advocacy and housing services. Friendship, family and respect are the result.

"To me, that is the main role of the staff at Options — to provide hope. And whatever you can do to give people that sense of hope, is a necessary and important ingredient of the Options Clubhouse "

About the Author

Helen L. Shore hails from the UK and came to USA in 1988. She obtained a Masters in Counseling Psychology. Using this degree and her work for the Center for Mental Health Services Research at the University of Massachusetts Medical School as a basis, Helen's writing skills provided the vehicle through which the Voices could express themselves and be heard. Her future ambitions include continuing to write professionally in the field of mental health, to write a bestselling mystery novel, and a personal promise to become a strong "voice of hope" for those who live with serious mental illness every day of their lives.

"More than being an opportunity to write, working with the members and staff of Employment Options has been a life altering experience"

Stories from Voices of Hope have appealed to many community readers through local newspapers .

How to Order

To order this book please mail a completed order form (PDF 222K) with your check to:

Employment Options, Inc.
82 Brigham Street
Marlborough, MA 01752