NAMI Merced County

NAMI Merced County is a non-profit grassroots organization in Merced County, California, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by mental illness. Founded by dedicated local women Belinda Foutz and Ida Mae Frade, who taught the Family-to-Family class annually, the organization was incorporated in 2006. It operates under the mission of providing support, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for people with mental illness and their families.

Mission and Goals

NAMI Merced County aims to enhance the lives of individuals and families impacted by mental illness through various programs. Its core goals include:

• Advocacy: Promoting non-discriminatory access to quality healthcare, housing, education, and employment at the county, state, and national levels.
• Education: Raising public awareness about mental illness to reduce stigma.
• Stigma Reduction: Working to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness.
• Research Advocacy: Advocating for increased funding into the causes and treatments of mental illness.

Programs and Services

The organization offers several key programs:

• Family-to-Family Classes: A 12-week course providing vital information and insight for family members of individuals with mental illness.
• Peer-to-Peer Recovery Class: A 10-week program designed for those living with mental illness.
• Family Support Groups: Bi-weekly meetings for families to share experiences and maintain self-care.
• Weekly Connections Support Group: Offered during the weeks when Peer-to-Peer classes are not held.
• Ending the Silence: An educational program targeting middle and high school students to address mental health awareness and reduce stigma.
• Parents and Teachers as Allies: Designed for school staff and parents to recognize early signs of mental illness in children and adolescents.
• In Our Own Voice: A public education program where individuals share personal stories about coping with mental illness.

Funding and Partnerships

NAMI Merced County operates with support from memberships, donations, contract funding from Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, and grants from NAMI National and NAMI California. Additional financial support comes from local organizations and community grants.

Leadership

Since its incorporation, NAMI Merced County has flourished under the leadership of several dedicated presidents, including Mary Hofmann, Jan Morita, Kristi Rieg, and Myisha Reed. These leaders have played crucial roles in expanding local services and programs.

Vision

The ultimate vision of NAMI Merced County is a future where mental illness no longer impedes individuals from reaching their full potential. This is envisioned through early diagnosis, effective interventions, and targeted treatments, ultimately leading to a day where prevention or cure might be possible.