BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which began as a grassroots organization formed around a kitchen table by two mothers in Minneapolis, MN, has grown into an international organization dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by mental illness. NAMI of Marion and Crawford Counties (NAMI-MCC) is continuing this mission by offering a series of free Family-to-Family classes and CONNECTION support sessions.

NAMI Family-to-Family is a class designed for families, significant others, and friends of people living with mental health conditions. Recognized as an evidence-based program by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the course aims to provide a better understanding of mental health conditions, increase coping skills, and help participants become advocates for their loved ones.

NAMI-MCC will be offering an eight-week series of Family-to-Family classes every Tuesday in October and November (excluding Election Day, November 5, 2024) from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Crawford Success Center, located at 130 N. Walnut St., Bucyrus, OH. These classes are free and open to loved ones, caregivers, and friends of individuals living with mental health issues. All class materials are provided.

To register for the Family-to-Family class series, call the NAMI-MCC office at 740-375-0796 or visit namimcc.org for more information.

In addition to the Family-to-Family classes, NAMI-MCC offers free, confidential CONNECTION support sessions in various locations:

  • 2nd Thursdays, 2:00-3:30 PM at Crawford Co. Art Center, 1810 E. Mansfield St., Bucyrus, OH 44820
  • 2nd Thursdays, 6:30-8:00 PM for LGBTQ+ at McKinley Park Shelter, Marion, OH 43302 (or NAMI-MCC Office in case of rain)
  • 3rd Mondays, 6:30-8:00 PM at Galion Library, 123 N. Market St., Galion, OH 44833, and virtually at this link
  • 3rd Tuesdays, 10:00-11:30 AM at the WIC Office, 1520 Isaac Beal Rd., Bucyrus, OH 44820

For more details, visit namimcc.org or call 740-375-0796. Remember, you are not alone – NAMI-MCC cares and is here to help.