New Hope Clubhouse Staff
Our Mission
New Hope Clubhouse is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to individuals on their journey to mental wellness. We offer a safe and inclusive space where members can engage in meaningful activities, build connections, and regain a sense of purpose. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is committed to empowering each individual to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. At New Hope Clubhouse, we believe in the power of community and collaboration in promoting mental well-being.


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
Retired March 2025
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 - Retired August 2024


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
Business Unit Manager
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"​Welcoming ALL With Open Arms"
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My name is Keeley and I have recently started working at the Clubhouse. I love that this model feels less clinical and more representative of what our members will see and do in real life. Our members are gaining invaluable life skills through side by side work and socializing. Seeing them succeed is our ultimate goal. I am honored to be a part of their recovery journey and help them in any way that I can. Everyone should be able to have a place to feel acccepted, seen and cared for.
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Keeley Vaught, BA, OBHP
Team Lead


"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, OBHP
Business Unit Manager
"Celebrate the Little Victories"
My name is Victoria and I go by Tori. I have recently joined the staff and I am very excited to start this new journey. The clubhouse is a great place for the members to utilizez their strengths and build on them through social interaction. I believe no person is identified by their struggles therefore, I am excited to work side by side with the members and staff to ensure every individual knows how valued and worthy they are. I look forward to seeing the growth of each and every member.
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Tori Blough, BA, OBHP
Food Court Manager
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"​There is always a path towards recovery and success"
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My Name is Doc Januzzi and I have recently joined our team at New Hope Clubhouse. The Clubhouse is a great place for members to get support from our staff as well as other members. We have a great team aspect here which I believe gives us a great ability to help encourage and guide our supported members. No matter how difficult one's journey may be, there is always a path towards recovery and success.
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Doc Januzzi, OBHP
Food Court Manager
​​Clubhouse Staff
over the years



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, LMHC, LCAC, Therapist
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: Branch Office Administrator
Employer: Edward D. Jones
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