Do you have a loved one with a mental illness? Support others who do in a support group!

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of people living with serious mental illness and their families.

Volunteers help to serve as Support Group Facilitators for NAMI’s Family Support Group program. Support Group Facilitators provide support, education, and practical knowledge to other people living with mental illness and family members. Groups meet weekly under the guidance of two Volunteer Facilitators.

Role Requirements: ▪ Personal experience having an adult family member with a mental illness ▪ Complete a 2-day training program provided by NAMI ▪ Current member of NAMI, or willingness to join ▪ Volunteers are kindly asked to make a 1-year commitment upon completion of training. Facilitators are scheduled on a rotating basis; minimum 3 hours per month

Volunteer Responsibilities: ▪ Facilitators are not counselors or teachers; instead, they are primarily present to give the group structure by opening and closing each support group session, guiding the discussion, and shifting the discussion when necessary ▪ Maintain confidentiality of support group attendees ▪ Work cooperatively with a co-facilitator to conduct the group ▪ Report attendance to the Director of Signature Programs