NAMI Oregon is a statewide organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness and their families through education, support, and advocacy. With over 1,500 members in 17 affiliates, we provide a range of free programs, including classes and support groups, as well as our Resource Helpline, which offers compassionate navigation support to help families and individuals manage mental health conditions.
Our advocacy efforts have led to significant legislative victories, such as the full implementation of the 988 crisis system in Oregon in 2023, advancing mental health policy and support statewide. NAMI Oregon supports over 15,000 residents annually, empowering them with the tools and resources they need to navigate their mental health journey.
The impact of these initiatives is profound, as demonstrated by the stories of individuals who have benefited from our services:
Jane, a caregiver, sought guidance on transitioning her adult child out of a mental health facility under her guardianship. Through compassionate support and expert navigation provided by our trained staff, Jane received valuable resources and a roadmap for her child’s reintegration into community life, ensuring continuity of care and support beyond the facility’s walls.
Mark reached out seeking assistance in finding a therapist specializing in trauma therapy. Through our Helpline, Mark learned how to navigate the process of finding a therapist who aligns with his insurance coverage and specializes in the type of therapy he was seeking, equipping him with the skills to proactively seek appropriate mental health support.
Sarah contacted our Helpline seeking resources and support for her aging parent struggling with mental health challenges. Navigating the complexities of caregiving, Sarah found comprehensive assistance through our Helpline, which offered tailored resources and referrals to local services that could meet her parent’s unique needs.
These stories exemplify the critical role our Helpline plays in bridging gaps in mental health care access and providing personalized support to individuals and families in their times of greatest need. With the support of grant funding, we aim to expand our Helpline’s capacity to serve even more individuals like Jane, Mark, and Sarah, ensuring that everyone in Oregon has equitable access to the mental health resources they deserve.
Additionally, our Resource Café will provide essential in-person mental health navigation support. Located at our headquarters in outer SE Portland, this physical space will empower individuals to navigate their mental health journey with dignity and resilience. Volunteers and staff will offer one-on-one support, access to resources, and a supportive community network, fostering connections that enhance overall well-being.
Our commitment to expanding access to mental health care extends to rural areas through the hiring of Regional Directors in Southern Oregon and Mid-Valley Oregon. These leaders will create a greater impact by providing crucial support and resources to underserved communities, ensuring that mental health services reach even the most remote areas of our state.
Together, the Resource Café, enhanced Resource Helpline, and expanded regional leadership will significantly improve access to mental health resources across Oregon, supporting individuals and families in their pursuit of mental health wellness and recovery.
Your support of NAMI Oregon will help improve the lives of individuals living with mental illness and their families through education, support, and advocacy in Oregon.
