PLACERVILLE, Calif. — The Placerville Rotary Club has awarded its prestigious Paul Harris Fellow honor to Yan Bennis, recognizing his leadership and sustained contributions to mental health services in El Dorado County.
Bennis, Executive Director of Clubhouse El Dorado, accepted the award during a recent Rotary Foundation Dinner, describing the recognition as both humbling and deeply meaningful.
“It was truly an honor to receive the Paul Harris Fellow Award… I am proud to finally be part of a network that lives these values every day,” Bennis said, thanking the Rotary club for its continued support of local mental health initiatives.
The Paul Harris Fellow distinction, established in 1957 by Rotary International, is one of the organization’s highest honors. It is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a commitment to “Service Above Self,” often through charitable contributions or significant community impact. The recognition is tied to contributions of at least $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation or may be granted by a local club to honor outstanding service.
Building a Mental Health Lifeline in El Dorado County
Since opening in August 2024, Clubhouse El Dorado has emerged as a critical resource for adults recovering from mental illness. Operating under NAMI El Dorado County, the program follows an internationally recognized “clubhouse model,” emphasizing voluntary participation, job training, and social connection.
Bennis, who brings more than 17 years of behavioral health experience, has been instrumental in launching and expanding the program. His professional background includes work at Fountain House in New York City—considered the birthplace of the clubhouse model—as well as Connections House in Contra Costa County.
Local leaders say his work fills a longstanding gap in services.
“Programs like Clubhouse El Dorado are essential,” a Rotary representative noted at the event. “They provide not just treatment pathways, but a sense of belonging and purpose for individuals navigating mental health challenges.”
Advocacy Beyond the Office
In addition to administrative leadership, Bennis has taken an active role in community outreach across El Dorado County. He frequently speaks at civic organizations, including local Rotary chapters and the El Dorado Hills Community Council, promoting awareness and reducing stigma around mental illness.
He has also contributed to statewide discussions, recently presenting at the NAMI California Annual Conference on how to successfully establish new clubhouse programs in underserved communities.
His advocacy extends into direct support efforts, including organizing donation drives for essential items such as warm clothing and sleeping bags for individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.
A Recognition Rooted in Service
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition reflects not only financial contributions to Rotary’s global humanitarian efforts—such as polio eradication, clean water access, and education—but also local service that strengthens communities.
For Bennis, the award underscores a broader mission.
“I have always admired the work of Rotary clubs and the Rotarians who dedicate themselves to strengthening their communities through service, connection, and compassion,” he said.
As mental health continues to be a growing concern statewide and locally, leaders say partnerships between service organizations and nonprofits like Clubhouse El Dorado will remain critical in expanding access to care and community-based support.
