The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is returning to Park County, and the community is invited to join the celebration at its kickoff event on Thursday, Jan. 25. The event, which marks the re-establishment of NAMI in the area after a few years of absence, aims to raise awareness about mental health and provide a platform for local mental health care providers and organizations.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Comprising families, individuals and advocates, it works to raise awareness, provide education and advocate for mental health policies. NAMI envisions a world where mental health is prioritized, and affected individuals receive the support, understanding and opportunities they deserve. By participating in the event, the Cody community can engage with NAMI’s mission to destigmatize mental health issues, foster understanding and build a caring network for those impacted by mental illness.

There are two options for community members and mental health professionals to participate in the festivities. The first option is a free lunch at Cody Regional Health’s Pitchfork Room from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring speakers around noon. The second option is a late afternoon gathering with pizza at the Grizzly Room at the Cody Public Library from 4-6 p.m., with speakers scheduled at 5.

Various mental health organizations, including the Department of Family Services, Downrange Warriors, the Library Telehealth group, and the CISM Team of Search and Rescue, will have informational tables for attendees to visit. NAMI welcomes other interested organizations to participate by contacting them via their Facebook page or speaking to a NAMI member.

Highlighting the importance of community support, the event sets the stage for the upcoming NAMI networking group, a Family-to-Family Support Group, scheduled for the spring. Sammi Strow, who will lead the group, is among the speakers at the events.