Finding Her Voice: Karla’s Journey of Growth and Achievement
Karla (to the far right) recently received a Personal Achievement Award for her accomplishments this past year.
“I have learned that I can achieve the things I want to do because I am more than my diagnosis.”
Ten years ago, Karla began attending Oasis House Clubhouse, where she found connection, encouragement, and opportunities to grow. This growth has led Karla to step outside of her comfort zone.
This year, Karla represented Oasis House at two conferences and served on a planning committee for the 2026 Pennsylvania Clubhouse Coalition Conference, dedicating her time and energy. At this conference, Karla read her poetry to an audience. Later on, she shared her recovery story, which takes strength and courage. Then, at the 2026 International Clubhouse Conference, Karla stood at the podium and spoke to an audience of 500 people.
In recognition of her accomplishments and perseverance, Karla received a Personal Achievement Award.
Rebecca Franz, Program Coordinator of Oasis House, looked at Karla and said, “You had a pretty amazing year.”
Karla agreed, “I have done things I never did before.“
At Oasis House, Karla has seen a difference in herself. With encouragement from staff and members and a strong commitment to her recovery, Karla is confident and brave enough to grow in new ways.
When asked what has helped her along the way, Karla offered a genuine answer: “Therapy and the support system I have.”
Rebecca has also witnessed the transformation. She remembers Karla feeling nervous at the Pennsylvania Clubhouse Coalition (PCC) conference, but she still stepped up to the podium and spoke.
“Everyone clapped for you and said, ‘You got this,’” Rebecca recalled. “At the conference, we all had a really strong connection. We felt supported and accepted.”
That acceptance has helped Karla do things that once scared her. She is not only attending conferences and participating in workshops but also sharing her life experiences and finding her voice.
“You are going to these conferences, and you are famous there,” Rebecca said with a smile. “You speak with everyone and are always with a group of people talking, laughing, and telling stories.”
With enthusiasm Karla said, “After each conference, I am excited to go to the next one. They always make you feel better.”
Her growth extends far beyond the conference room. She is also gaining experience and discovering new interests through her Transitional Employment position at York Fresh Food Farms.
“It’s good and the people there are great,” Karla said about her job. “I like learning how to grow fruits and vegetables and seeing produce I have never seen before.”
Rebecca shared that the people at York Fresh Food Farms have been equally impressed with Karla. “They love you and cannot say enough good things about you.”
Karla’s accomplishments have come alongside some difficult moments. She has experienced some personal challenges and has stayed positive, keeping her mental health a priority. Progress does not mean every day is easy. For Karla, it means moving forward, even when life presents challenges, and not letting a hard moment define her future.
Her advice to those struggling is heartfelt. Karla, with encouragement, says, “Keep pushing and do not give up. You are more than your diagnosis and even in the darkest days, there is still light.“
On tough days, she finds comfort in the simple things: reading a book, playing a game, or spending time at Oasis House.
When asked what she loves most about Clubhouse, she says: “The people. They have made me feel more confident to achieve my goals.“
Karla wants others to know that their challenges do not determine who they become. Achievement can mean taking a chance on something new, discovering your voice, and realizing that people are excited to listen.
She continues growing, one experience and one opportunity at a time. Her advice says it all: “Keep moving forward. Do not let life keep you down.”
When Rebecca reflected on her remarkable year, Karla happily said, “It has been great.”
Congratulations, Karla, on an incredible year of growth, courage, and new experiences! Your accomplishments are a powerful reminder that we are more than our challenges and that amazing things happen when we believe in ourselves.