New Hope's Staff
Sense of community
My name is Bambee. I have worked at the Northeastern Center over the past 39 years. Most of my career I have had the pleasure of being part of the New Hope Clubhouse. I became the director in 2009. New Hope Continues to meet the standards and provide a meaningful work setting where men and women are respected, valued, and create meaningful relationships. Our hope is that any person that walks through our doors will find purpose, support, and employment/education opportunities. Most of all, they will all find a place to belong.
Bambee Lehman, MS, BA, OBHP
Clubhouse Director
Be yourself
My name is Andrea. I have worked for NEC for over 27 years. I transferred to Clubhouse when the opportunity arose in 2009. I like the model of rehabilitation and I have always enjoyed helping others.
Andrea Brand, OBHP
Business Unit Manager
A True Sense of Belonging
My name is Lynn. I have been working with NEC for close to 13 years. When the position came open about 11 years ago to work within the Clubhouse, there was no hesitation. Working at New Hope Clubhouse allows me to help others believe that they can strive to accomplish their goals, make friends, have a place of belonging, as well as being accepted for who they are, no matter what struggles they face. Having a location where everyone can feel accepted and not judged, I believe, is so needed at this time.
Lynn Chupp, OBHP
Food Court/Kitchen Manager
Working side-by-side matters...
My name is Tracy, and what I love most about the clubhouse model is working side-by-side with members and staff. We are all a team working together to help promote a positive working environment that reinforces rehabilitation and recovery, and HOPE for every single member.
Tracy Cochran, BS, OBHP
Team Leader
"Bloom where you are planted"
My name is Heather but I go by Thea. I have been in mental health for the last 4 years. I love working with people to help them realize their full potential. I believe that compassion and grace can only come from adversity. No matter what struggles we face in life we can always overcome and choose joy everyday. I am so excited to work at Clubhouse and work along side members.
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Thea Johnson, AGS
Business Unit Manager
"Your Imperfections are what make you beautiful!"
I started my journey in human services in 2009, working as a DSP in the group home setting with individuals who have a DD waiver. I moved on to be a team lead in a supported living home for high behavioral clients. After graduating from IPFW in 2016 with a Bachleors, I became a QMRP, writing the ISP & BIPS for clients. Making a switch to mental health is 2017, I began helping individuals with skill building activities and advocating for their mental health needs. I love building rapport with all of our members and sharing new ideas/ways to build on everyone's strengths daily.
Stephanie Minich
Food Court/Snack Bar Manager
Advisory Board Members
Tracy Cochran, BS, Board Chair
Title: New Hope Clubhouse Team Leader
Employment: Northeastern Center
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy, Employment and Community Support
Bambee Lehman, MS, BA, Director
Title: Director of New Hope
Employer: Northeastern Center
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy, Employment and Community Support
Kelly Graden, BSN
Title: RN
Employer: Health Care Instructor
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Northeastern Center Board Member, Community Support
Susan Kamara
Title: Staff Therapist
Employment: DeKalb County/NEC
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy, Employment Development
Brad Baker
Title: Teacher, Retired
Employer: Bakers Fruit and Flower Farm
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy, Employment Development
Samantha Cares, BA
Title: Case Facilitator
Employer: Northeastern Center/Steuben County
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy
Carl Ritchie
Title: Facility Director
Employer: Cole Center Family YMCA
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Advocacy, Employment
Jayme Becker
Title: Clubhouse Member & NAMI Recovery Support Specialist
Employment: Voluntary member
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Consumer Perspective
Rotating Member
Title: Clubhouse Member
Employer: Voluntary member
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Consumer Perspective
Clubhouse Staff Representative
Title: Clubhouse Counselor
Employer: New Hope Clubhouse/NEC
Contribution to the Clubhouse: Adcocacy