NAMI Receives Innovation Award for 988 Advocacy Efforts

Apr 27, 2022

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) today was recognized for its #ReimagineCrisis campaign, receiving the Communications Innovation Award from the Public Affairs Council during its annual Advocacy Conference in Austin, Texas.

“NAMI is proud of how the Reimagine Crisis campaign has contributed to the increase in awareness of 988 and what needs to happen to provide a mental health response to the mental health crisis,” said Daniel H. Gillison Jr., CEO of NAMI. “We are deeply grateful for the Public Affairs Council’s recognition of this initiative,” he said. “It’s an honor to be recognized by an organization that represents best practices in public and government affairs.”

In November, NAMI brought together a broad coalition of stakeholders for “REIMAGINE: A Week of Action to Reimagine Our National Response to People in Crisis,” an effort to raise awareness and urge action to fund a comprehensive crisis response system ahead of the launch of 988. Starting in July, 988 will be available nationwide as a resource for people who experience a suicidal, substance use or mental health crisis. The Week of Action attracted more than 7,600 registrants who helped raise awareness for more funding for a mental health crisis system.

“While 988 is coming in July, we have a lot of work to do as a country to provide the crisis care that will help people experiencing a range of mental health crises,” Gillison said. “Our coalition of stakeholders has helped raise the alarm about the urgent need to truly reimagine crisis services.

“Now, more than ever, our communities need increased mental health services. NAMI wants everyone to know that they are not alone, and resources are available to help anyone experiencing mental health concerns for themselves or a loved one.”

Learn more about the 2022 Public Affairs Council Innovation Award winners here.

NAMI Advocacy Director Brandon Graham and NAMI Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski accept the Communications Innovation Award from the Public Affairs Council.