NAMI FaithNet is a group of dedicated volunteers within NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties that reaches out to area faith communities in an effort to make them aware of NAMI programs, as well as other area mental health resources. In doing so, we encourage them to participate in promoting mental health awareness. Currently, only two affiliates in the state of Colorado (NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties and NAMI Western Slope) have active FaithNet involvement in their communities.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015, was a National Day of Prayer as part of National Mental Illness Awareness week. FaithNet of NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties hosted an Open House/Information Event at the Lone Tree campus of the University of Phoenix. Clergy and lay leaders from a variety of denominations joined us and enjoyed a continental breakfast that was generously donated by Einstein Bagels and the Duffy Roll Cafe. Our guests had the opportunity to peruse resource tables, as well as talk with representatives from NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties, Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network, FaithNet and a CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) officer from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department. It was a wonderful networking opportunity that fostered dialogue about the many mental health education, support and outreach initiatives at NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties and within our local community.
There was also an opportunity to view a DVD of the NAMI signature program In Our Own Voice. This is a powerful video that shares lived experiences from a variety of individuals living in recovery from mental illness. It definitely inspires hope. Each person who joined us, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about area resources, as well as an opportunity to network with both the representatives and other faith community leaders. NAMI FaithNet extends its sincere gratitude to all who were a part of this successful event. We value and appreciate the opportunity to further educate and increase mental health awareness among leaders of our faith communities.
- Sheila Brockmeier