NAMI Chicago

Our CEO Matthew Davison spoke with the Chicago Tribune about how ongoing enforcement tactics are eroding trust and taking a real psychological toll on communities across Chicago. Thank you to Gregg Pratt, Laura Rodríguez Presa, and Rebecca Johnson for covering this important story. ➡️ Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gsU7Auqa

From conversations on navigating the crisis system to shared solutions on Illinois mental health policy and advocacy, Sista Afya's summit brought powerful ✨ voices together — with a shared purpose to drive real change! Huge thanks to the NAMI Chicago Recovery, Helpline, Policy, 988, and Mental Health Court teams for coming out! #MentalHealthSummit #mentalhealthcare

A huge thank you to everyone who voted for Edlyn Alcedo for the 2025 She Inspires Me Award! While she didn’t take home the award, Edlyn was thrilled to be nominated and celebrated the moment with her family. Despite the chilly day, it was full of laughter, joy, and special memories. 💜 Here are some highlights from the She Inspires Us Awards ceremony.✨

“People are feeling isolated. And that’s intentional.” Our CEO, Matt Davison, spoke with Jon Asplund at Crain's Chicago Business about the growing fear and anxiety communities are experiencing amid ICE raids and the toll it’s taking on our city’s mental health. Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/gjVD9D6G

Happy Veterans Day 🇺🇸 Today, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of all who have served. Your courage safeguards the freedoms and values we cherish, and we are deeply grateful for your service. For anyone who may need support today, you’re not alone. Our NAMI Chicago Helpline will be open during its usual hours to offer support. 📞 833-NAMI-CHI (626-4244)

November support groups are here! Whether you’re living with a mental health condition or supporting someone who is, NAMI Chicago offers free, safe, and confidential spaces, both in-person and virtual, to connect with others who understand. 💚 Find a group that fits your journey and join us this month. Find out more here: https://lnkd.in/e3aHZKpJ

Watch this clip of NAMI Chicago CEO Matt Davison discussing systems change and the challenges families face accessing mental health care. Thanks again to 🫶 Loyola University Chicago and the Health Law Society for inviting us to the DEI panel on medical distrust. #mentalhealthcare

“The system keeps letting us down. But I refuse to give up on my daughter.” Suzanne’s story is more than a mother’s love; it’s a call to fix a mental health system that too often leaves families without support until a crisis hits. 💚 Read her journey here: ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gggr7GjQ

STRONGER 💚 TOGETHER! We want to give a special shout-out to NAMI Illinois for hosting their statewide conference, 2025 Stronger Together for Mental Health: Hope, Resilience, & Healing Conference, an incredible two-day event featuring more than 100 speakers and 41 sessions. Jim Poole, our Senior Director of Policy, led a session on Campus Mental Health in collaboration with the Young Invincibles. NAMI Chicago Clinical Support Manager Laney Chace, MSW and Director of Care Coordination Kathy Ziecik, MA, LCPC presented on "Assisted Outpatient Treatment: A Pathway to Community Care" alongside Scott Block. 🎉 Congratulations to Stephanie Goeres, our Senior Manager of 988, for being awarded the NAMI Illinois Linda Dzuibala Above and Beyond Award. This annual recognition honors individuals within NAMI affiliates who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the organization's mission by going "above and beyond" their assigned duties. See the highlights here: https://lnkd.in/gJVMfK9r

Thank you to the Loyola University Chicago School of Law for inviting NAMI Chicago CEO Matt Davison to participate in the DEI Panel addressing medical mistrust. Matt spoke about the impact of our work and shared insights for future health law professionals on how to build trust through advocacy, policy, and community engagement. Special thanks 🫶 to the Health Law Society and Professor Weinmeyer for a thoughtful conversation! Catch the highlight here. #EndtheStigma #MentalHealthforAll