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The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Lake County is a non-profit, self-help organization of families, friends, users of mental health services, and professionals, dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons affected by neurobiological brain disorders (commonly known as mental illnesses), such as schizophrenia, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, autism, and depression. NAMI of Lake County is affiliated with NAMI national and NAMI Illinois, giving its members support, education and advocacy at three levels: local, state and national. Our mission is to provide support, education, advocacy, and resources to those who suffer from neurobiological brain disorders and their families. |
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Support
NAMI of Lake County offers friendship, understanding,
encouragement, and mutual support to all who are faced with a chronic
neurobiological brain disorder of a loved one. Family members learn
coping skills by sharing their experiences and exploring solutions to
common problems. Families and those with neurobiological brain
disorders learn that they are not alone, the disorder is treatable, and
the illness is not anyone's fault.
Education
NAMI of Lake County educates through meetings, conferences,
training and educational materials for families and professionals.
Monthly general meetings feature speakers on topics that educate our
members and the community about mental illness and related issues.
Speakers and resource materials are provided for meetings of other
organizations. NAMI of Lake County members have opportunities to
volunteer in programs and community events designed to educate the
public and/or aid those who suffer from brain disorders.
Advocacy
NAMI of Lake County brings the needs of persons with a
neurobiological brain disorder and the needs of their families to the
attention of legislators, service providers, medical staff, and the
general public. The organization protects the rights of persons with
neurobiological brain disorders and actively presses for improved
community support services.
Accomplishments
NAMI of Lake County:
- Founded the Independence Center, 2025 Washington, Waukegan (847)360-1020, a psychosocial/vocational rehabilitation program for persons with neurobiological brain disorders.
- Founded Lake County Enterprises, Inc. to develop businesses that provided therapeutic employment for individuals with a psychiatric disability. Operated Uptown Café (formerly Mes Amis), Waukegan.
- Successfully lobbied for the establishment of the Lake County Health Department's Group Home.
- Worked with the staff of the College of Lake County to develop supports that enable persons with a psychiatric disability to make successful enrollments.
- Periodically offers classes such as NAMI's Visions for Tomorrow and Family-to-Family education courses for members and the general public.
- Produced a stigma-busting video that also restores hope and promotes community support services.
- Developed the Lake County Resource
Guide for Mental Illness and Other Neurobiological Brain
Disorders - text, forms, references and service &
support organizations for mental illness and other neurobiological
brain disorders.
3001
Green Bay Road, Building 5
North Chicago, IL 60064
(847) 249-1515
Last Updated: March 7, 2011