The National Alliance on Metal Illness of Maryland is honored to announce that it has received a grant from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation for $9,000, which will allow them to reinvigorate and expand specific outreach and opportunities to veterans with mental health conditions. This includes peer support groups and education courses using the same successful NAMI model for programs, but limited to veterans, at Vas, in the community. Funds from this grant will help rebuild and expand a sustainable set of NAMIs free, peer programming for veterans with mental health issues.
“We are thrilled to have the support of the Disabled Veterans National Foundation,” said Kate Farinholt, Executive Director of NAMI Maryland. “There are three primary mental health considers that affect veterans: 1. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; 2. Depression; and Traumatic Brain Injuries. Peer support has been found to be extremely effective as a supplement to treatment as well as often an entry point to acceptance. By awarding us this grant, the DVNF is showing a commitment to improving the mental health of our veterans and their families and we look forward to re-developing and rebuilding this important program for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) in Maryland.”
Joseph VanFonda (USMC Sgt.Maj. Ret.), CEO of the Disabled Veterans National Foundation said, “Emotional support from peers is vital on the road to civilian transition after military service. The work NAMI is doing for veterans is instrumental in creating an environment that fosters healing and DVNF is proud to partner with this organization and their mission.”
NAMI Maryland looks forward to working with the DVNF and our other partners on this important support and education project. If you would like to learn more or get involved with our expansion of services to SMVFs in Maryland, please contact [email protected].
About the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Maryland
NAMI Maryland is the NAMI state organization in Maryland. The mission of NAMI Maryland is to improve the quality of life for individuals and their families coping with mental illness. We are dedicated to providing free education, support and advocacy for individuals with mental illnesses, their families, and the wider community. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
About the Disabled Veterans National Foundation
Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and our freedom.
DVNF achieves this mission by:
- Offering direct financial support to veteran organizations that address the unique needs of veterans, and whose missions align with that of DVNF.
- Providing supplemental assistance to homeless and low-income veterans through the Health & Comfort program and various empowerment resources.
- Providing an online resource database that allows veterans to navigate the complex process of seeking benefits that they are entitled to as a result of their military service, as well as additional resources they need.
- Serving as a thought leader on critical policy issues within the veteran community and educating the public accordingly.
