NAMI On Campus includes student-led groups on high school and college campuses that spread mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and give support to those with mental health conditions, loved ones of individuals with mental health conditions, and other interested individuals.
NAMI Smarts for Advocacy is a hands-on advocacy training program that helps people living with mental illness, friends and family transform their passion and lived experience into skillful grassroots advocacy. NAMI Smarts for Advocacy is designed as a series of three 1-2 hour workshops or modules or as a single full-day training that develops the following skills:
- Telling a compelling story that is inspiring and makes an “ask” in 90 seconds
- Writing an effective email, making an elevator speech and making an impactful phone call
- Orchestrating a successful meeting with an elected official
The unique step-by-step, skill-building design of NAMI Smarts is effective with a wide range of participants, including those who are new to advocacy as well as individuals with years of experience.
Participants routinely share that they have never been able to condense their story or made a clear “ask,” but with NAMI Smarts, they are now able to. Lobbyists who represent NAMI State Organizations or mental health coalitions also love this program—they see participants come out confident and able to share their stories in a way that moves policymakers.
NAMI FaithNet is an interfaith resource network of NAMI members, friends, clergy, and congregations of all faith traditions who wish to encourage faith communities who are welcoming and supportive of persons and families living with mental illness.
NAMI FaithNet strives to encourage welcoming, caring congregations as well as to promote the vital role of spirituality in the recovery journeys of many who live with mental health conditions, those for whom faith is a key component. NAMI FaithNet is not a religious network but includes an effort to outreach to all religious organizations.
NAMI Walks is a 5K walk that brings the community together with people of all ages and fitness levels to combat stigma, raise funds, promote awareness of mental illnesses, and celebrate recovery.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Dates, times, and registration are TBD. You can show interest in the program and sign up for updates by clicking this link. Select “Participant Interest,” click on the program that interests you, and enter your details.
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
If you are interested in volunteering for any of these programs, please click here. The following page will provide more information on how to get involved. If there are any additional questions regarding these programs, please contact us.