NAMI West Central Illinois begins serving region with creation of Mount Sterling office

MOUNT STERLING, Ill. — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)-Illinois office has announced the launch of a new affiliate, NAMI West Central Illinois, to serve the mental health needs of the residents in the region.

Following a year-long intensive application process, NAMI recently approved the creation of the new affiliate, which will be headquartered in Mount Sterling with outreach efforts throughout west-central Illinois.

Around 60 percent of adults with a mental illness don’t receive care. A study of more than 90,000 people worldwide found the stigma regarding mental health is one of the top reasons people do not seek assistance. The new NAMI West Central Illinois affiliate is striving to change that, according to NAMI Illinois executive director Andrew Wade.

In a press release, Wade said, “In challenging times like these, everyone needs hope. We’re excited to bring NAMI resources and support to west-central Illinois residents and grateful to all of the leaders who worked so tirelessly to get this new affiliate off the ground. With NAMI, you are never alone.”          

NAMI Illinois and its affiliates throughout the state provide free mental health services, programs, training and resources to Illinois residents who have mental health concerns, as well as offer vital resources to families and friends.

The Tracy Family Foundation (TFF) and other community leaders recognized the need for mental health resources and approached NAMI Illinois to begin discussions for a new affiliate to serve west-central Illinois.

An open house will be held in June (date and location to be announced). A program director will be hired shortly to lead the WCI Affiliate.

“While the affiliate will launch from Brown County, NAMI West Central Illinois has the goal to provide mental health services and resources to all counties within the region,” said Terry Jenkins, WCI Affiliate steering committee chair. “We’re dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with mental health challenges and their families through support, education and advocacy. It takes all of us working together to ensure the well-being of our residents.”

To volunteer with NAMI West Central Illinois and/or to learn more about the services and resources that will be offered, email NAMI_WCI@namillinois.org or call 217-522-1403.