Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness and countless more family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers are directly impacted. That is why NAMI Racine County joins the nation wide movement to raise awareness for mental illness, fight stigma, and encourage a compassionate community.

In 2022, as the local community and the world emerge from an emotionally taxing pandemic, mental illness and mental wellness have become everyday conversations with the CDC reporting “more than 50% will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime.”

NAMI Racine County is committed to making sure that no one ever feels alone when facing the symptoms of a mental health concern.

“The first step in making people feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns is to remove the stigma unfairly surrounding mental illness and emotional wellbeing,” shares Bridget Munson, Executive Director at NAMI Racine County. “The amazing staff and volunteers at NAMI Racine County have created a series of events during Mental Illness Awareness Week to help facilitate those conversations.”

Sunday October 2nd – October 7th an online auction is open to the public. With over 70 items including food and drink baskets, family fun adventures, sports memorabilia, and exclusive one-of-a-kind items, there is something for everyone! Register to bid at www.charityauction.bid/NAMI2022. Auction closes at 8:50 on October 7th. 100% of proceeds from this event support NAMI Racine County’s effort to provide mental health programs at no cost to participants.

Monday, October 3rd from 6:00-7:30PM at NAMI Racine County (2300 De Koven Ave Racine WI 53403), NAMI Racine County will host Hearing Voices, an interactive workshop that allows people to experience first-hand what it is like to have auditory hallucinations. Open to the public; registration encouraged; free.

Wednesday, October 5th from 6:30-7:30PM, prospective local legislative candidates will share insight into community mental health goals in a forum open to the public either via Zoom or at the Racine Public Library. Invited panelists include Robin Vos, Robert Wittke, Anthony Hammes, Greta Neubauer, and Van Wanggaard. Moderated by Adam Rogan. Open to the public; registration encouraged; free.

Friday, October 7th from 5:30-9:00PM NAMI Racine County hosts their annual fundraiser at the Roma Lodge where guests will gather for networking and fundraising with all proceeds support NAMI Racine County. Ticket sales are closed. Donations are still accepted www.namiracinecounty.org/donate

Saturday, October 8th from 10:00AM-12:00PM, NAMI Racine County is pleased to offer for the first time The Family Experience ­– a free presentation providing insight into the impact of mental illness on the family unit.

October 3 - October 6th - Also offered are four separate fundraisers in partnership with local restaurants: Panda Express (Monday the 3rd from 10:30AM-9:00PM), Chipotle (Tuesday the 4th from 4:00-8:00PM), Noodles & Co. (Wednesday the 5th from 4:00-8:00PM), and Panera (Thursday the 6th from 4:00-8:00PM). A portion of the proceeds from each of these businesses is donated to NAMI Racine County to help provide mental health services at no cost to participants.