Last week, I had the great honor to speak to the Parker Rotary. http://www.parkerrotary.org
In preparation, I intended to share my own personal story, as well as further build awareness about the classes, support, and outreach NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties offers.
I was fortunate to join in the regular meeting before speaking and learned much about the diverse service works the Parker Rotary is involved in, locally and abroad. One project of particular interest, was their Camp RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.) Two participants, both local high school students, shared their experiences from the leadership training camp. Each, enthusiastically made a short presentation sharing about the week’s activities and team building exercises, which gave them greater confidence to apply their learned skills in day-to-day life. What a wonderful program that trains future leaders with service-minded hearts.
Among the group, there was a genuine interest in mental health awareness, which made things natural and easy. Everyone was warm and receptive as I shared my own personal story, as well as the important works we are doing at NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties. As follow-up, the audience asked many relevant questions about the need for greater mental health awareness and education today. The shared synergies between their interest in mental health and the programming we offer at NAMI highlighted the possibility of a future partnering opportunity. Generously, they made a monetary contribution to our organization, which is most appreciated and will be well used to further our community efforts.
On a final note, a few members of the Commerce City Rotary joined the meeting and shared some successful mental health initiatives that they have implemented within their community. Their committed efforts are proving to have great benefit in building greater mental health awareness. The Parker Rotary is exploring similar opportunities. I was asked to share with them ways that NAMI could be a resource in those efforts. This was the perfect time for NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties to shine, as we are so well suited to offer education and support.
I look forward to continued dialogue with them about ways we can partner in a mutually beneficial way. Again, many thanks for the wonderful opportunity to join you…
Warmest Regards,
Jason Hopcus
President
NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties