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Hi ,
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, fighting stigma, and providing support for those living with mental health conditions. Throughout this month, we celebrate the resilience of our community and the vital importance of prioritizing our collective well-being. We invite you to join us in championing mental health by engaging with our upcoming events, sharing resources, and fostering open conversations that remind everyone they are not alone.
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NAMI CCNS Support Group Highlight:
Saturday Morning Family Support Group Helps Family Members Know They Are Not Alone
When: Every Saturday | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: St. Francis Hospital, Glass House Room OR Online via Zoom
Every Saturday morning, NAMI CCNS hosts free, peer-led support groups for the families, friends, and caregivers of individuals living with mental health conditions. Participants can choose between an in-person meeting at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston (Glass House Room) or a simultaneous online session. These groups are specifically designed to provide a flexible morning option for those who may find it difficult to attend our traditional evening programs.
Led by trained volunteers who have their own lived experience supporting loved ones, these confidential meetings offer a nonjudgmental space to share wisdom, coping strategies, and local resources. They focus on wellness, community, and shared strength. By joining this community of peers, you can find practical support and the profound relief of knowing you are not alone on this journey. Whether in person or online, we welcome you to join us any Saturday morning. |
| Learn More About Family Support Group |
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Find Your Community: Free Support Groups for Every Journey
At NAMI CCNS, we believe that no one should have to navigate mental health challenges alone. We offer a variety of free, peer-led support groups designed to provide a safe, confidential space for sharing experiences and gaining strength. No registration, just walk in. You will be welcomed! |
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Connection Recovery Support
Mondays, Saturdays @ 4PM, Zoom |
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NAMI Connections is a free, peer-led support group program for adults working on mental health recovery. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others |
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Balance for Success Recovery
Tuesdays @ 7 PM via Zoom |
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This group focuses on balancing the pressures of college or work while managing a mental health diagnosis and staying on the path to recovery. |
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Family Support Groups
Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays
Meets In-Person or via Zoom |
| Read More |
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Peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. |
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Grief and Loss Support Group
Saturdays @ 10 AM via Zoom |
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Through the Grief and Support group, participants find healthy ways of remembering and honoring someone they care about. |
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Veterans Support Group
2nd & 4th Tuesdays @ 7 PM
In-Person in Lincolnshire |
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This support group is for veterans living with a mental illness or mental health issues and Gold Star Families. Share problems you are facing and learn how others have dealt with the same issues. |
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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+
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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NAMI CCNS Gala 2026: This Saturday
When: Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Sunset Ridge Country Club
In honor of Mental Health Month, we are thrilled to host our annual gala this Saturday! We look forward to celebrating our community’s accomplishments this year and raising the vital funds needed to sustain our mission. Your support allows NAMI CCNS to continue advocating for mental health and providing free programs and resources to our community.
Can't make it to the gala? You can still make an impact! If you are unable to attend, we encourage you to consider making a donation to support our ongoing outreach and advocacy efforts. |
| Make a Donation to NAMI CCNS |
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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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Caring for Someone with Dementia or Other Cognitive Changes
When: Friday, May 1, 2026 | 1-2 PM
Where: Glenview Public Library, Community Room East
Learn practical ways to support people living with dementia or other cognitive changes. Get tips for daily caregiving, adapting activities, and fostering healthy family dynamics. Presented by Cynthia Phon, Director of North Shore Senior Center’s House of Welcome Adult Day Services and Senior Options. Registration required. |
| Register for this Community Event |
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Grand Spring 2026 Rummage Sale
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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Thank you for being an essential part of our community and for your unwavering support of our mission. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month throughout May, we are reminded that our work is only possible because of the compassion and dedication you show every day. Your commitment helps us provide vital resources and hope to those navigating mental health challenges across our community. Thank you for standing with us this May and all year round. |
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