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The Nuts and Bolts of t his Growing Program. Emily Cepla. Amanda Swindle. What are NAMI on Campus clubs?. Student-led clubs that address mental health issues by:. Raising mental health awareness . Educating the campus community . Supporting and connecting students .
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The Nuts and Bolts of this Growing Program Emily Cepla Amanda Swindle
What are NAMI on Campus clubs? Student-led clubs that address mental health issues by: • Raising mental health awareness. • Educating the campus community. • Supporting and connecting students. • Promoting services and supports. • Advocating.
What do they do? • Hold vigils to honor victims of suicide. • Sponsor movie nights with mental health themes. • Host speakers who come to campus and educate students on mental health themes. • Launch stigma-busting campaigns on campus. • Post flyers with positive mental health messages. • Hold NAMI In Our Own Voice presentations on campus. • Lobby for mental health resources to be readily available.
Why do they matter? • Raise awareness and hope. • Expand reach and audience. • Connect young adults to a cause. • Bring new energy to NAMI. • Brings young adults to NAMI at all levels. • Future of NAMI.
And then? • Four Easy Steps: • NAMI checks to see if there is already a club being formed on campus. If not, the student is sent the Startup Packet. • Fill out the Startup Packet: • Write Constitution. • Recruit 5 members. • Recruit faculty advisor. • Become recognized by their school. • Get endorsed by NAMI. • Includes recognition from NAMI State Organization and NAMI Affiliate.
Frequently Asked Questions • How can I support NAMI on Campus clubs? • Help work with the school to get a club on campus. • Engage club members in what you’re doing. • Write blogs and articles. • Participate in your state • convention. • Provide information and • resources. • Share supplies, space and • funding. • Help with sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions Do NAMI on Campus leaders pay membership dues? • All NAMI on Campus leaders create a free NAMI account online, which provides them with access to the NAMI on Campus Leaders Only web section. • Student leaders are not required to become NAMI members, but are strongly encouraged to join NAMI through their NAMI State Organization or NAMI Affiliate at the $3 Open Door Level.
Frequently Asked Questions Can I start a club as a NAMI leader? YES, but… Students MUST take the lead on campus. NAMI on Campus clubs are student-led, but many NAMI State Organization and NAMI Affiliate leaders take the initiative in getting a school interested in NAMI on Campus and work to recruit students to take over the on-campus activities.
Learn from a Leader • Curious freshman wanting to get involved. • Knew I was passionate about issues regarding mental health – personal experiences. • Became general member of NAMI, moved up to club Secretary and then eventually club President. • Sparked an immense passion for raising awareness of mental health support, education and advocacy.
Challenges • Recruiting members and member retention. • Creating and implementing new and exciting ideas and events. • Energizing young students to be interested and passionate about mental health. • Motivating executive officers and club members to stay involved and proactive.
Successes • Increased membership over the years. • Increased recognition and knowledge of NAMI on Campus throughout CNU. • More interactive club meetings. • Increased involvement in annual NAMI Walk in Richmond, VA.
Questions? Contact Information: ecepla@nami.org 703-600-1107