Have a loved one with mental illness? Become a support group facilitator to help families!

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness and their families. Volunteers are needed to serve as Support Group Facilitators for NAMI's Family Support Group program. Support Group Facilitators provide support, education, and practical knowledge to other peope living with mental illness and family members. Groups meet weekly or biweekly under the guidance of 2 Volunteer Facilitators.

Role Requirements:

▪ Personal experience having an adult family member with a mental illness

▪ Complete a 2-day training program provided by NAMI. Available weekends only.

▪ Current member of NAMI, or willingness to join

▪ Volunteers are kindly asked to make a 6 month commitment upon completion of training. Facilitators are scheduled on a rotating basis; minimum one 90-minute group per month.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

▪ Facilitators are not counselors or teachers; rather, they are present primarily to give the group structure by opening and closing each support group session, guiding discussion, and shifting discussion when necessary.

▪ Maintain confidentiality of support group attendees

▪ Work cooperatively with a co-facilitators to conduct the group

▪Report attendance to NAMI staff