We are persons who live with mental illness and are committed to the mission of NAMI, to "improve the lives of persons with mental illness and their families." We are part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Consumer Councils were created by NAMI to be a voice for consumers in each state. NAMI Illinois has instituted our state Consumer Council. The officers and members are all people living with mental illness. The creation of this council demonstrates the value of persons with mental illnesses and their experiences to improve all areas of mental health services.
We are a strong, productive part of NAMI.
Our personal stories, publicly expressed, provide others with an understanding of mental illness. They also demonstrate the absolute necessity for improvement in current mental health services. Our daily struggles with our illnesses require a voice and understanding by others. If we all "unite" and start talking, it will be impossible not to be heard.
There is help. . . As consumers of mental health services we know the pain first hand and we know how to help. You don't have to be alone dealing with schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and many other mental illnesses. There is help and we are here for you.
We need you. . . We have a stronger voice when yours is united with ours. By joining NAMI Illinois, you bring power to our numbers and a unique voice that many people with mental illnesses do not have. Make a difference.
We need your voice because with increased membership comes power to work effectively for improved treatment of, and more research into, mental illnesses and a better quality of life for those who suffer from them.
As a member of NAMI you join forces with people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness, parents, siblings, spouses, friends, professionals, and organizations. You will benefit from membership in the State NAMI Illinois and the National NAMI and receive the Consumer Council's newsletters, conference information and legislative alerts, as well as information, announcements and newsletters from NAMI Illinois and NAMI.
You can join NAMI today. Contact:
NAMI Illinois
218 West Lawrence
Springfield, Illinois 62704
Telephone: (217) 522-1403 V/TTY
Fax: (217) 522-3598
Toll Free: (800) 346-4572
Email: namiil@sbcglobal.net
Victoria Gonzalez, Chair
Connie Clark, Vice Chair
Pam Conley, Secretary
Richard Salazar, Treasurer
Mary Rottmann, At Large
Bonnie Hinkler, At Large
Carrie Atterberry, At Large
Virginia Lake, Representative to NAMI Illinois Board of Directors
Susan Ling, Representative to NAMI Consumer Council
Greg Coughlin, Alternate Representative to NAMI Consumer Council
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