In December of 2009 I became a NAMI Connection Facilitator.  I did so because NAMI Connection is a wonderful and beneficial program for those who live with mental illness.  It is non-judgmental, helps build self confidence, sets realistic goals, establishes support systems and offers tools and knowledge to help prevent relapse.

     “The real gift of Connection, the real heart of Connection, is connecting with other people in an accepting environment.  We all come as we are and stay who we are in group without fear of misunderstanding. We are connected to each other and to the experiences of each other which offers us new ways of coping and new ways of thinking.”

     Connection has helped me personally by really allowing me to realize a dream I had, one that I was not sure could be accomplished.  Through NAMI Connection I had the courage to become a group Facilitator for NAMI.  It has opened doors for me by enabling me to utilize abilities that I did not know I had.

     NAMI is the National Alliance for Mental Illness (800) 950 – NAMI or NAMI.org.  NAMI is dedicated to improving the lives of those individuals & families affected by mental illness.  We are families, friends and individuals that serve to strengthen communities across the country.

     In February 2010 NAMI started Weekly Peer Run Support Groups called NAMI Connection.  These groups are for and run by persons who live with mental illness.  These groups are facilitated by facilitators who are trained and many are Certified Peer Specialists.  Connection groups are held weekly in four different locations in Montgomery County (once a month in each location).