NAMI Washington County, Inc.

06/17/2026

Tomorrow we're making light catchers!

Our 'Letting in the Light' series continues, and this time we're bringing a little color to the windows and a little brightness to our hearts.

Using tissue paper, dried flowers, and creativity, we'll create one-of-a-kind light catchers that remind us that even the smallest bits of light can make a big difference.

Whether you're joining us for the first time or returning for another creative morning, we'd love to have you there.
No artistic experience needed—just bring yourself.

Come make something beautiful, catch a little sunshine, and carry a bit of light home with you. ✨☀️

06/12/2026

Why is celebrated? NAMI CEO Dan Gillison shares some history of this month, and why acceptance and affirmation matters.

Read the full blog now: nami.org/lgbtqi-mental-health

06/11/2026

Today, we gathered in nature, slowed down, and created together.

At our first 'Letting in the Light' workshop, participants of all ages spent time collecting natural treasures, arranging leaves, flowers, stones, and shells into beautiful nature mandalas.

As we created, stories began to emerge.

Some mandalas honored beloved dogs who are no longer with us. Some reflected the strength of loved ones facing cancer. Others captured the changing seasons, memories of sunshine, growth, gratitude, and the simple things that help us keep moving forward.

Some participants worked quietly on their own. Others created side by side, building mandalas together...one piece at a time.

What made today so special wasn't just what we made, but the space we shared. A space to slow down, connect with nature, express ourselves, and be reminded that even the smallest pieces can come together to create something beautiful.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful morning. We can't wait to continue the journey and keep letting in the light.☀️🌿

06/11/2026

06/09/2026

🧵💙 Help Us Wrap Our Teens in Comfort & Care 💙🧵

Through the end of June, NAMI Washington County is collecting fleece fabric donations to create no-sew comfort blankets for teens participating in our support groups and therapeutic arts programs.

Many of the young people we serve have experienced significant life challenges, including trauma, foster care, the loss of a parent or sibling, family addiction, mental health struggles, and other difficult circumstances. A simple blanket may seem small, but it can provide warmth, comfort, security, and a reminder that someone cares.

We are looking for:
✨ 2.5 yards of fleece (polar fleece or anti-pill fleece) in a fun pattern
✨ 2.5 yards of coordinating solid-color fleece

Animal-themed patterns are especially popular with our teens, including:
🐶 Dogs
🐱 Cats
🦊 Foxes
🐰 Rabbits
🐾 Other fun animal prints

Donations can be dropped off during Welcome Center hours:

📍 NAMI Washington County Welcome Center
279 S. 17th Ave., Suite 7
West Bend, WI 53095

🕙 Monday–Thursday | 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Thank you for helping us create moments of comfort, hope, and connection for youth in our community. Every blanket tells a teen, “You matter.” 💙

06/04/2026

NAMI Washington County was thrilled to participate in NAMI Wisconsin's CIT Symposium as we take steps to bring back CIT training to our county!

06/04/2026

Partnerships matter!
Check out our new programs in collaboration with The Youth and Family Project, Inc.! Starting June 11th!
Details below!

***LGBTQ+ Youth & Caregiver Support Groups***

Youth and their families are offered safe and affirming support on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month from 5:30 – 6:30 PM. Groups are held at NAMI Washington County Welcome Center at 279 S 17th Ave, West Bend, WI 53095 . Youth and their families may attend as often as they like, drop-ins are welcome and pre-registration is not required.

Save time and pre-register: https://form.jotform.com/260076222833149

06/01/2026

Our first workshop, 'Letting in the Light' begins soon, and we'd love to have you join us! 🌞

Together, we'll spend a little time creating, reflecting, and noticing the things that help us keep going. Whether it's a moment of calm, a supportive connection, time in nature, or simply gathering with others, there is a place for you here.

Session One: June 11 | 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

You are welcome to attend one session, two sessions, or all three. Come in whatever way feels right for you.

All ages are welcome, and no art experience is needed. Just bring yourself.

Curious about what we'll be creating? Take a peek at our earlier post for a little nature mandala inspiration and a glimpse of what Session One will hold.

At NAMI Washington County, we believe connection can be a powerful source of healing. We hope you'll pull up a chair, create alongside us, and spend a little time letting in the light.

💛 To register, email [email protected]

05/29/2026

🌈☀️ Summer is Here… and so is an exciting June at NAMI Washington County! ☀️🌈

We’re kicking off the season with an incredible lineup of programs designed to inspire connection, hope, healing, and community. June brings the launch of several NEW programs, including:

✨ Letting in the Light Workshops
💜 Stronger Together (for LGBTQ+ youth and caregivers - in collaboration with The Youth and Family Project, Inc.)
💬 EmpowerMEnt! (in collaboration with Elevate)

Alongside these new opportunities, you’ll also find many of our beloved programs, including:

🤝 Hope Connections
🎨 Connect & Create
💚 Making Space
👥 Teen Connections
🌟 NAMI Family & Friends Support Group
💙 Compassion Project

Returning to NAMI on June 18th:
🛟 QPR Su***de Prevention Training

Whether you’re looking for support, education, creative expression, connection, or simply a welcoming place to belong, there’s something for everyone at NAMI Washington County this summer. 🌻

📅 Check out our June Program Schedule and find a program that’s right for you!

🔗 Visit https://www.namiwashingtonwi.org/ to learn more and register for upcoming programs.

🌈 Join us at NAMI this June!

05/29/2026

I had the opportunity to drop off children’s safety kits at NAMI of Washington County.

The mission of NAMI is “to positively impact all those affected by mental health conditions by offering support, providing education and raising community awareness,” and I’m grateful to support an organization making such a meaningful difference in our community. Through programs like peer-to-peer support, art therapy, group therapy, grief counseling, and other community resources, they continue to create a safe and supportive space for individuals and families navigating life’s challenges.

These children’s safety kits include fingerprint ink cards, personal data keepers, online and social media safety tips, and resources for navigating difficult situations like bullying. Having these tools and conversations in place can provide peace of mind and help keep children safe.