The Nuts and Bolts of this Growing Program Emily Cepla Amanda Swindle

What are NAMI on Campus clubs? o Raising mental health awareness. o Educating the campus community. o Supporting and connecting students. o Promoting services and supports. o Advocating. Student-led clubs that address mental health issues by:

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.

I’m Interested—Now What?

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 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. Do NAMI on Campus leaders pay membership dues?

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.

NAMI on Campus—CNU Events

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