My journey with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) began three years ago, when I was asked to serve as the liaison between Trinity Episcopal Church and the NAMI Southeast Louisiana chapter.
Serving Trinity in a greater capacity has certainly been rewarding. I had no idea what my new role would involve, but as we have heard John Pitzer say: Just take the opportunity to serve others—and do it!
Service. Hands-on service. I think that is what we are all called to do, and I am blessed to be a part of it.
Working with NAMI has given me opportunities to serve others and make new friends at Trinity. The TLF program, Trinity’s clergy and staff, and many parishioners have been instrumental in our work.
Each month, our group visits the NAMI Clubhouse on Canal Street to meet and work alongside people living with mental illness. We see firsthand the challenges Clubhouse participants face, as well as the support they receive through NAMI’s clinical services and educational programs.
Our role is to help provide organized activities that foster teamwork, build skills, strengthen social connections and give participants opportunities to serve others.
Service. Hands-on service. I think that is what we are all called to do, and I am blessed to be a part of it.
Interested in joining us at the NAMI Clubhouse? Contact Ken Harrell at kenharrell1955@gmail.com, or learn more at namisela.org.
Another opportunity for hands-on support is NAMIWalks Southeast Louisiana on Saturday, September 26, from 9 a.m. to noon at Audubon Park. Team Trinity will walk alongside hundreds of participants to raise awareness and funds for mental health care in our community. Learn more and register with Team Trinity.
