Meeting Summary – March 24 Planning Session
NAMI Fort Wayne launched its new Community Connect initiative with a collaborative planning session on March 24, focused on expanding public engagement and increasing mental health awareness across the community.
Key outcomes and ideas included:
- Mental Health Awareness Month (May) Planning
- Yard signs featuring “Mental Health Struggles?” with website, logo, and QR code
- Window clings and t-shirts with similar messaging
- Exploration of a bus wrap public awareness campaign
- Distribution of business cards and “Mental Health Awareness” pins at the Northeast Indiana Mental Health Summit (May 19)
- Investigation into banners along major roadways
- Plans for landmark lighting in green, including the Parker-Cole Bridge and MLK Jr. Bridge
- Potential media outreach to highlight these efforts
- Community Partnerships & Outreach
- Exploring a “NAMI in the Lobby” program at Parkview
- Idea to distribute pens and materials to healthcare providers
- Discussion of placing green ribbons in Headwaters Park (pending approval)
- Upcoming Education Nights
- June 23: Potential guest speaker from the Public Defender’s office
- September 22: Exploring a panel with Judge Williams at PFW
- Ongoing Visibility Efforts
- Yard sign campaign to continue beyond May
- Quotes being gathered from multiple vendors for promotional materials
This session generated strong momentum, with multiple volunteers taking ownership of next steps to bring these ideas to life.
