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History
Peoples Oakland is a private non-profit agency established by local residents as a community, planning and organizing agency. Originally, the mission was to enhance the integrity of the community through communications and negotiation among residents, merchants and institutional representatives. Peoples Oakland was very successful in its early organizing efforts, leading to the development of several community wide planning structures which still operate today.
The Peoples Oakland Mental Health Program was founded in response to the crisis faced by thousands of state mental hospital patients who, through deinstitutionalization programs, were released into the community with few supporters or social connections. Peoples Oakland began to organize former state hospital patients, providing education to support them in advocating for the rights.
Community Involvement
Peoples Oakland continues to build productive partnerships and networks with other service providers, community partners, institutions, and foundations. Peoples Oakland is proud to partner with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the City of Pittsburgh and the Federal Government.
Services
Wellness Services
Wellness and Fitness Activities assist members in understanding and applying a holistic approach to creating and maintain a healthy lifestyle. A wide range of activities are available. Members work with staff to develop and follow their individualized wellness recovery plans.
In the fitness center members use aerobic and weight training equipment and participate in classes such as yoga, walking groups, weight management and smoking cessation. Nutritional education is incorporated through the healthy foods offered at the Snack Shack and every event, celebration and function. Nutritional health is also a focus in the diabetes education class and weight management class.
Social and Recreational Services
Social and Recreational activities provide opportunities to meet and make friends and to participate in fun events at Peoples Oakland and in the community. Activities are continually evolving to meet the interests of the membership.
Events range from parties, cook-outs and playing pool to day outings and overnight vacations. There is an all season sports program with competition against other agencies in basketball, softball and volleyball.
Employment Services and Educational Supports
Peoples Oakland offers a wide range of employment services and education supports. Supports and opportunities are tailored to each member's strength and interests. Member's interest range from entering the work force to pursuing their education by attending local training centers and universities. Services offered include: individual career counseling; on the job training opportunities in reception, clerical support, housekeeping and peer support; job skills classes; job research assistance; competitive in-house and community placements; job coaching and support; educational supports and individual computer accounts with internet access.
Supported Employment and Education Program
Peoples Oakland is committed to assisting individuals with mental illness to find and keep employment in the community. Supported Employment (SE) is a nationally recognized, evidence-based approach to vocational rehabilitation for people with serious mental illnesses that emphasizes helping them obtain competitive work in the community and providing the supports necessary to ensure their success in the workplace. The SE program at Peoples Oakland is open to any individual in Allegheny County with a mental illness who wants competitive employment. We have staff who can help you with all phases of employment. Services are customized to the needs and desires of the individuals served. These services may include: benefits counseling, career counseling, resume development, interview practice, job development, placement and assistance in keeping a job. Staff is also available to assist you with information and support in your training and/or educational pursuits.
For more information, please contact the Peoples Oakland Supported Employment Specialist, Elise Barr: 412-683-7140 ext. 222 or 412-925-4307
Peer Support
Peoples Oakland has always been a leader in self help and peer support models. Opportunities are available for members to develop, lead and participate in activities and groups; work as a peer counselor; participate in community consumer activities such as CSP and PSAN; attend conferences and workshop. In addition, informal social relationships with peers allow unlimited opportunities to both provide and receive support.
Unique Opportunities Available:
- Every member of Peoples Oakland is assigned to rehabilitation counselor to assist them in developing and working on their own Recovery plan.
- Members have opportunities to improve their physical health, social life and employment opportunities through participating in Peoples Oakland groups and activities.
- Members actively participate in the management of Peoples Oakland by developing and leading groups, serving on the Peoples Oakland Board, etc.
- Members actively participate in the day to day operations of Peoples Oakland by assisting in peer support, housekeeping, clerical and reception activities as either a volunteer or a paid position.
- Members actively participate in advocacy and public policy activities.
- Members participate in community service activities such as volunteering and community walks.
3433 Bates Street Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
Phone (412) 683-7140 • Fax (412) 683-7138