NAMI Waukesha is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to provide help to those affected with mental illness and their families and friends. Since 1979, NAMI Waukesha has worked to improve the understanding of mental illness by providing information and referrals, offering court support during commitment proceedings, facilitating support groups throughout the community, sponsoring educational meetings, and advocating on behalf of those with mental illness.

Education and Information

• Monthly Programs - offer speakers knowledgeable about various issues facing families who are dealing with mental illness.  See upcoming events for speakers and topics.
• Family-to-Family - 12-week course for families of individuals with severe brain disorders, taught by trained family members.
• Bi-monthly Newsletters - full of information regarding educational programs and articles, calendar of events, volunteer opportunities and program news.
• Resource Guides - updated annually, these books contain information for people with mental illness about services provided by Waukesha County to families and individuals
• Lending Library - relevant books, videos, pamphlets, periodicals and DVDs.
• Brochures - on major mental illnesses and/ services offered..
• Peer to Peer 9-week companion course of Family to Family for persons with mental illness, taught by trained consumers.
• In Our Own Voice: Living with Mental Illness - a recovery education presentation given by trained mental health consumers for other consumers, family members, friends, professionals, and lay audiences.

Support Program

• Courtroom Support for families experiencing commitment and criminal proceedings involving mental illness, with knowledge of the resources available and individual personal support.
• Support Groups that meet monthly and provide a place to share concerns and gain strength from others who have experienced the challenges of mental illness.
• One-on-One support, education, information, and referrals.

Advocacy

• Legislative Committee active in seeking legislation on the federal, state and county levels that will improve the lives of persons with mental illness.
• Housing Support & Advocacy for individuals affected by mental illness who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless.
• Help with securing appropriate care and treatment.
• Networking with the correctional system, mental health services, and other agencies on state and local levels.