Contact us :
(413) 786-9139 or (800) 295-2121
information@namiwm.org

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The Basic Rights workshop provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities under:

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
• Massachusetts Special Education Law and
• No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

This workshop is designed to help parents learn to be effective partners with their child’s school to decide their child’s eligibility for special education, and to plan, make decisions and monitor their child’s progress in school.

• Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2009
• Location: BHN Corporate office, 417 Liberty St., Spfld
• Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Contact: Linda Roy, 737-0960 ex.3027

A presenter from the Federation for Children with Special Needs will conduct this workshop. Federation workshops are free to parents and open to the public. You are welcome to attend any workshop in or outside of your immediate community.

Please register in advance through your local contact person or at Click Here or phone the Federation’s receptionist at 617-236-7210 or 800-331-0688.

Come Join us!

Welcome to the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Western
Massachusetts affiliate. Our site is dedicated to providing you with helpful information about resources and support, as well as information about upcoming local NAMI events.

NAMI-WM is a grassroots, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with severe mental illness We offer compassionate support, education, resources, referrals, and advocacy, always free of charge.

What are Severe Mental Illnesses?
Mental illnesses are biologically-based brain disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depression, and panic disorder. Research suggests genetics and chemical malfunctioning of the brain as causes. Mental illnesses are not caused by character flaws or poor child rearing.

Information-Advocacy-Referrals
NAMI-WM provides free information, advocacy and referrals relevant to legal matters, insurance benefits, children's services, medications, emergency/crisis services, mental health providers, doctors, rehabilitation services, descriptions of mental illnesses, treatments available, research findings, and much more.

Open Your Mind Campaign
Many people suffering from mental illness and their families, do not seek help because of the stigma mental illness carries in our society. This stigma is translated into discrimination such as under-funding for services and unequal insurance coverage. NAMI-WM tries to erase stigma through its Iris Project, annual Walkathon, and through public education in schools, businesses, colleges, police workshops, civic groups, religious groups, legislators, and the media. NAMI-WM provides free speakers, literature, and videos. Contact us.