On a recent Wednesday morning at our Community Life Center, we asked several of our members, “What do you like about the Well?” Their answers capture the core reasons that the Well Community exists, and as we prepare to ask our larger community to partner with us on North Texas Giving Day, we’d like to share some of them with you.
“You help out with us, and you all treat us nice and you all understand us.”
“It’s a positive environment.”
Individuals living with serious mental illnesses, like members of the Well Community, often face unkindness and discrimination. But they know that the Well is a stigma-free environment where they’re met with kindness and support.
“I’ve made good friends.”
“I like coming here to see everybody’s face.”
“I like being with all my friends.”
“I like to make new friends and show them I enjoy the Well.”
Friendship was a common thread in members’ answers. At the Well, they’re surrounded by others who understand their struggles and care about them. And, because of this, they often invite others to experience the Well Community with them.
“I like Bible study here a lot.”
“I love coming to play bingo.”
The daily challenges of serious mental health conditions consume so much of a person’s energy and resources, leaving little capacity for things that are fun and life-giving. That’s why the activities members enjoy at the Well are especially meaningful. As they play games, get creative through crafts and attend Bible study together, they’re blessed with breaks from their day-to-day struggles as well as opportunities for laughter and connection.
“I love the retreat. I can’t wait until November.”
The poverty that so often compounds serious mental illnesses places vacations out of reach for our members. But twice a year they get away for an overnight spiritual retreat—a rare opportunity to relax, spend time in nature and be refreshed. These retreats are the only times all year that they escape the city.
“It’s like family here.”
Of all the reasons our members give for coming to the Well Community and inviting others, this is the one we hear the most: The Well is like a family. It’s a community where people are cared for, where they belong and where they are missed when they are absent.
All of these reasons remind us why we’re so grateful for our larger community that makes the Well possible. Those who give, volunteer and pray enable us to continue to provide a place where those living with serious mental illnesses are welcomed and supported, where they find connection and friendship each time they come.
Each September, this community demonstrates their care in a special way by partnering with us on North Texas Giving Day, a time when we highlight the needs of the Well and how gifts can make a difference. This year, it falls on September 18, and we’re excited to once again celebrate the partnership of the many donors who come alongside us to help us continue to serve our members all year round.
Early giving is now open, so click here to give now!