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Hi ,
May is officially Mental Health Month, and we couldn't have kicked it off in a more spectacular way. This past Saturday, our community gathered at the Sunset Ridge Country Club for an evening of elegance, advocacy, and shared purpose.
In this edition, we’re sharing a high-spirited recap of our "Run for the Roses" gala, including a mystery involving a certain four-legged guest, while looking ahead at the track. We have two vital programs launching this week designed to offer fresh perspectives on recovery and specialized wellness strategies for the seasoned members of our community. Read on to see how you can get involved in the next leg of our journey. |
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Racing for Hope Gala: A Triple Crown Success!
Thank You for Joining Us in the Winner's Circle
We are still galloping with excitement after an incredible evening at the Sunset Ridge Country Club this past Saturday! To everyone who donned their best fascinators and seersucker blazers for the NAMI CCNS Gala 2026, thank you for making it a night to remember.
It was a thrill to celebrate our community’s accomplishments with such a spirited crowd, made all the more impactful by the inspiring words from our guest speaker, Paige Thonus. Because of your support, we’ve crossed the finish line with the vital funds needed to keep our mental health programs and advocacy in the lead for our community.
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Snapshots from the Track: The Photos are In!
The wait is over! You can now relive the race and the evening through our official event gallery. A huge thank you to Hayley Stein Photography for capturing the stunning hats, vibrant décor, and all of your smiling faces so beautifully.
You can view the photos at the link below and download them for free to receive the high-resolution versions. We hope these serve as a wonderful reminder of a night spent championing hope. |
| Download Gala Pictures |
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Mystery at the Finish Line
If there is one way to know the crowd had a great time, it’s when the antics continue after the final lap! You may have noticed that our iconic horse, Medium Sebastian, who stood tall by the step-and-repeat for photos all night, managed to "break out of the gate" and disappear from the club after the gala. |
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We are happy to report that the mystery has been solved!
Sebastian has officially found his way to a new home. While he may have taken an unauthorized victory lap, he stands as a testament to the high spirits and incredible generosity shown during the gala. |
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Still Time to Join the Winner's Circle
If you missed the "most exciting two minutes in mental health advocacy," there is still time to get in on the action! In honor of Mental Health Month, you can still help us reach our fundraising goals. |
| Make a Donation to NAMI CCNS |
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Your donations ensure that NAMI CCNS continues to provide a winning hand to those in need by keeping our programs and resources free for all. Thank you for being our champion of hope! |
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TONIGHT Family Insight Evening: Supporting A Loved One Through Recovery
When: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: First Congregational Church of Wilmette (1125 Wilmette Ave)
The journey of recovery is a collaborative process, and the support of a family can make all the difference. Join us for our May Family Insight Evening, where we will focus on the vital role families play in supporting a loved one through recovery. Led by our experienced Family-to-Family teachers, this session provides a structured space to explore recovery-focused communication, practice supportive skills, and connect with peers who are also navigating this path.
No registration is required. Open to adults who have previously participated in NAMI Family-to-Family or NAMI Family Support Groups. Join us for an evening of education, empathy, and community. |
| Learn More About Family Insight Evenings |
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Mental Health Series for Adults 55+: Starts This Week
When: Fridays | May 8, 15, 22 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Morton Grove Public Library, Baxter Auditorium
Join NAMI CCNS this May for a powerful three-part series designed to foster understanding, resilience, and connection for adults ages 55+. Whether you are looking to build your own wellness toolkit or gain a deeper perspective on lived experience, these sessions at offer a supportive space for all.
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Session 1: Mental Health 101 (Friday, May 8)
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Start with the basics. We’ll discuss the landscape of mental wellness, share data on common conditions, and identify key warning signs and symptoms. This is an interactive conversation for anyone looking to deepen their foundational knowledge.
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Session 2: Self-Care Kits (Friday, May 15)
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Session 3: In Our Own Voice (Friday, May 22)
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Experience a powerful, personal look at mental health. Led by a speaker with lived experience, this presentation aims to reshape attitudes and change assumptions by sharing the reality of living with a mental health condition.
Registration is required for each session and remains open until the start of each program. Join us for one or all three to help build a community of empathy and support. |
| Register for Mental Health 101 |
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Save the Dates: Our 2026 Event Calendar
While we are focused on a busy spring, we want to make sure you have these key dates on your calendar for the rest of the year! From the golf course to the walking trail, there are so many ways to show your support for mental health in our community.
Mark Your Calendars For:
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The Taylor Brothers Golf Outing: June 6, 2026
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The Peter Krol Memorial Golf Outing: September 26, 2026
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The NAMI CCNS Community Walk: October 11, 2026
More details on registration and locations for these events will be coming soon. We can't wait to see our community show up in force throughout the summer and fall! |
| Explore Upcoming Fundraising Events |
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Grand Spring 2026 Rummage Sale: This Weekend
When: Friday, May 8, 8 AM – 2 PM | Saturday, May 9, 9 AM – 12 PM
Where: Winnetka Community House, Harkness Outreach Center, & Winnetka Congregational Church
Shop for a cause at this century-old community tradition supporting local social service agencies and NAMI CCNS. Discover a massive selection of items across three locations, including designer fashion, furniture, jewelry, and home goods. All departments are half-price during the Saturday session. Help support the well-being of underserved and marginalized neighbors in the Chicagoland area while finding your next great treasure. |
| More Rummage Sale Information |
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Whether you were with us in the ballroom or are joining us for our upcoming programs, your dedication is what allows NAMI CCNS to provide a lifeline to so many. The energy from this gala will fuel our outreach throughout the rest of the year, ensuring no one has to walk their journey alone.
Thank you for being part of our "stable" of supporters and for championing hope every single day. |
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