NAMI Applauds “Network of Care,” Encourages Statewide Partnerships

Posted on June 11, 2007

Washington, D.C.—The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has entered into a partnership with Trilogy Integrated Resources, creators of the Network of Care community Web sites, to familiarize NAMI members with the powerful on-line resources provided by the Network—and to promote its adoption by state and local government agencies nationwide.

NAMI’s national convention in San Diego, June 20-24, 2007 will include a symposium on the Network of Care as a model program. Network resources can be reviewed at www.networkofcare.org.

"NAMI supports the Network of Care and its innovative approach to wellness and recovery through user-friendly online tools and access to timely information," said NAMI executive director Michael J. Fitzpatrick. "It is a resource that is making a difference in the lives of consumers, families, and agencies alike."

The Network of Care Web site was recognized as a model program in the President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health final report in July 2003. Since then, over 300 mental health websites have been launched across the country, including 45 sites serving 77 counties in the Transformation Grant state of Ohio. SAMHSA recently approved the use of Transformation Grant funds for the statewide implementation of the Network of Care, and NAMI Ohio played an instrumental role in collaborating with the state.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families living with serious mental illnesses, through research, education, support and advocacy.

"The Network of Care has specific tools in each of our mission areas," Fitzpatrick noted. "Research and education in the form of a library of over 30,000 current health articles; support in the form of a local directory of services; a secure area to keep personal records; and access to local legislative information." Now in 13 states, the Network of Care is soon to be launched in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Alaska.

"The Network of Care is consumer-friendly and culturally-responsive," he said. "It is uniquely positioned to carry out our shared vision by effectively linking consumers, family members and service providers in local communities.

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