NAMI in the Community
NAMI Fort Wayne strives to educate our community on all aspects of mental health.
We share personal experiences to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and promote the dignity of all persons living with mental health challenges. We work with faith communities to be welcoming and supportive of people struggling with the effects of mental illness. We talk about the prevalence of mental health conditions and encourage all to seek appropriate care. We initiate conversations and network with local organizations to improve access to quality resources and support systems so that all persons can live a fulfilling life.
We’re all in this together. Connect with us today!
NAMI FaithNet
NAMI FaithNet is a mental health outreach program and resource network of NAMI members, friends, clergy and congregations that encourages communities of all faith traditions to be welcoming and supportive of people who struggle with the effects of mental illness, both those living with it and their family members. NAMI Fort Wayne seeks to reduce the stigma of mental illness by advancing the knowledge of mental disorders and recognizing the vital role of spirituality in the recovery journeys of those for whom faith is a key component.
One in five people may develop a mental health condition during their lifetime. As people often turn to communities of faith when difficulties arise, NAMI Fort Wayne reaches out to offer support and education through the FaithNet Bridges of Hope presentation. This hour-long program about mental illness is coupled with the presenters’ personal stories and concludes with a question-and-answer session. The presentation demonstrates ways in which faith-based communities can offer comfort, convey acceptance and create hope.
NAMI Fort Wayne has given this program to general audiences as well as smaller, more specialized groups such as those who have responsibility for caring ministries. Our FaithNet program has opened the door for many to discuss and find support for a mental health issue of their own or that of a loved one. Beyond the presentation, we can offer additional resources as appropriate.
Please contact the NAMI Fort Wayne FaithNet Program Coordinator, for additional information.
Community Events
NAMI Fort Wayne participates in events throughout the northeastern Indiana community. We also sponsor free, public education or social events every month.
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free course for adults (18 and older) caring for a family member or loved one with a mental illness. The Fall 2026 course will begin Thursday, September 24th and run through November 12th. Sessions will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM in Chad's House located directly behind The Carriage House. If the [...]
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free course for adults (18 and older) caring for a family member or loved one with a mental illness. The Fall 2026 course will begin Thursday, September 24th and run through November 12th. Sessions will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM in Chad's House located directly behind The Carriage House. If the [...]
Whether you want to share ideas, lend your skills, or simply learn more, there’s a place for you. NAMI Fort Wayne invites the entire community to be part of Community Connect—a new initiative designed to bring people together to plan, create, and participate in meaningful mental health awareness efforts. Events and activities may include educational speakers, [...]
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free course for adults (18 and older) caring for a family member or loved one with a mental illness. The Fall 2026 course will begin Thursday, September 24th and run through November 12th. Sessions will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM in Chad's House located directly behind The Carriage House. If the [...]
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free course for adults (18 and older) caring for a family member or loved one with a mental illness. The Fall 2026 course will begin Thursday, September 24th and run through November 12th. Sessions will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM in Chad's House located directly behind The Carriage House. If the [...]
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free course for adults (18 and older) caring for a family member or loved one with a mental illness. The Fall 2026 course will begin Thursday, September 24th and run through November 12th. Sessions will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM in Chad's House located directly behind The Carriage House. If the [...]
Community Connect
Join us–be part of the movement!
Whether you want to share ideas, lend your skills, or simply learn more, there’s a place for you.
NAMI Fort Wayne invites the entire community to be part of Community Connect—a new initiative designed to bring people together to plan, create, and participate in meaningful mental health awareness efforts. Events and activities may include educational speakers, panel discussions, brainstorming sessions, walks in the park, the annual summer picnic and holiday party.
Mental health touches everyone. Through Community Connect, we aim to make awareness visible, accessible, and actionable throughout Fort Wayne.
All events are free and open to the public. We encourage you to bring a friend!
Upcoming Opportunities to Get Involved:
- Candlelight Vigil for Those Lost by Suicide — September 22, 2026 from 8:15-8:45 PM
- Planning & Project Nights (4th Tuesdays) — help shape campaigns, events, and outreach efforts. September 22, 2026, October 27, 2026; November 24, 2026. held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
- Educational Speakers or Panel Discussions — Learn from experts and engage in important conversations.
- Annual Summer Picnic — A relaxed, family-friendly gathering for connection and support. August 25, 2026.
- Holiday Party — Celebrate the year and our community together. December 15, 2026.
Whether you want to share ideas, lend your skills, or simply learn more, there’s a place for you.
NAMI Fort Wayne invites the entire community to be part of Community Connect—a new initiative designed to bring people together to plan, create, and participate in meaningful mental health awareness efforts. Events and activities may include educational speakers, panel discussions, brainstorming sessions, walks in the park, the annual summer picnic and holiday party.
All events are free and open to the public. We encourage you to bring a friend!
Upcoming Opportunities to Get Involved:
- Planning & Project Nights (4th Tuesdays) — help shape campaigns, events, and outreach efforts. October 27, November 24 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
- Educational Speakers or Panel Discussions — Learn from experts and engage in important conversations. Tentatively September 22 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
- Annual Summer Picnic — A relaxed, family-friendly gathering for connection and support. August 25 held at Northside Park, Psi Ote Upper Pavillion
- Holiday Party — Celebrate the year and our community together. December 15 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
Whether you want to share ideas, lend your skills, or simply learn more, there’s a place for you.
NAMI Fort Wayne invites the entire community to be part of Community Connect—a new initiative designed to bring people together to plan, create, and participate in meaningful mental health awareness efforts. Events and activities may include educational speakers, panel discussions, brainstorming sessions, walks in the park, the annual summer picnic and holiday party.
All events are free and open to the public. We encourage you to bring a friend!
Upcoming Opportunities to Get Involved:
- Planning & Project Nights (4th Tuesdays) — help shape campaigns, events, and outreach efforts. October 27, November 24 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
- Educational Speakers or Panel Discussions — Learn from experts and engage in important conversations. Tentatively September 22 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
- Annual Summer Picnic — A relaxed, family-friendly gathering for connection and support. August 25 held at Northside Park, Psi Ote Upper Pavillion
- Holiday Party — Celebrate the year and our community together. December 15 held at Chad’s House which is directly behind The Carriage House at 3327 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.
Plan to attend the NAMI Fort Wayne Annual Holiday Party on Tuesday, December 15 from 6-9 PM at Chad’s House.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! Invite a friend and introduce him or her to NAMI in a relaxed and casual setting.
There will be no peer, spouse or family support groups tonight; however, facilitators will be available for persons who request support.
Doors open at 6 PM with a potluck buffet of delicious main dishes and beverages provided by the NAMI board. Attendees are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share. The ever-popular mystery present swap-steal will follow dinner. Every guest is welcome to participate. We ask that those who are able please bring a wrapped gift approximately $10 in value.
This event is free and open to the public.
