CICS Center reopens under new direction

The CICS Center is once again open to serve as a friendly safe space for those living with a mental illness.

The center originally opened last March through Franklin County Community Services but closed in December 2019. Now under the direction of Prairie Ridge, the CICS center allows people with mental illnesses a place to gather with one another and participate in activities or have time to themselves in a judgment-free zone.

Joy Klein, center coordinator, said the reopening of the center came at a perfect time, as isolation and social distancing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has limited the opportunities for socialization and outreach for those who use the center.

“I feel like just them socialization and being together again is helping them out a lot,” she said. “Before they were really isolated because of the pandemic. There will be times I ask if we should play a game and they say they just want to talk.

The center is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. Those who wish to use the center must first get clearance through Robyn McKee at the Community Resource Center. Once approved, people are allowed to come and go as they please and are not required stay for full sessions.

Klein said each day comes with a set activity or theme, such as Frisbee golf or wear blue day. She said the activities are meant as a way for the attendees to work with one another, but for the most part, visitors have formed their own bonds and relationships with one another.

“It’s really interesting how they all came in on (last) Monday and they were really shy but by Tuesday or Wednesday, they were really opening up and being themselves,” she said.

With the ongoing pandemic, Klein said she and clients take precautions while at the center. Those who use the center are asked to use hand sanitizer and have their temperatures checked before entry and wear masks when at the center. She said she will clean and sanitize the center at least twice a day.

She said the focus on cleanliness and safety has eased some concerns of those who use the center and has ultimately helped foster a more stress-free environment.

“It’s reassuring to them that we’re all taking all of these safety precautions and that makes them feel better to know that we’re all in this together and we’re being safe about it,” she said.