Life Exchange Center (LEC) is an ODMHAS certified consumer-operated peer support drop-in center. It is a beacon of hope and recovery from individuals with mental health/substance use disorder.  The Center is designed to assist with the recovery process by providing social support, educational programs, and life skills training for individuals in recovery. It is the only center of its kind  in Cuyahoga County, located on Cleveland's eastside.

 

In 2011 the Life Exchange Center (LEC) became incorporated as a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit business.  LEC is governed by a Board of Directors of whom more than one-half have a personal relationship with mental health and/or substance use disorder either as a consumer of services or as a family member of someone who is a consumer. The day-to-day operations are managed and carried out by certified peer support staff all of whom are in recovery whether it be mental illness or substance use disorder.  Participants of Life Exchange Center are called members to signify that they have a formal role in the ownership of developing and managing the agency’s programs that are of specific interest to them.   

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Over years of  independent operation, LEC has grown significantly.  We are proud to say that our membership  increased  and  our Transitional Youth Housing Program (TYHP) has remained stable for months.  THYP houses young adults, ages 18 -25 and has been in operation since March 2016.

 

The Cuyahoga County ADAMHS Board remains the LEC’s primary funder and supporter. The St. Luke’s Foundation has generously provided funding for specific programing and items to include a 15 passenger van  and African drums. In addition, various other organizations have provided funding and in-kind gifts. The agency offers art therapy which is winner at LEC, and member's art in  all its forms is displayed throughout the building.

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When members are surveyed about why they like the LEC, their primary answer is that at LEC, they are provided with a sense of family and belongingness. They enjoy the food, workshops, classes, and they love the field trips!