Family • Friends • Advocacy
We are growing with the times but we remember what’s important . . .
NAMI Schenectady is a grassroots organization dedicated to building better lives for individuals and families affected by mental illness. For more than 30 years, we have been a source of hope, support, education, and advocacy within our community.
Our story began when a small group of Schenectady parents came together to support one another as they navigated the challenges of having loved ones living with mental illness. Their shared commitment led to the formation of the Schenectady Relatives Group, which was incorporated as AMI-Schenectady in 1988 and has continued to serve the community ever since.
In 1998, we officially became NAMI Schenectady, reflecting our affiliation with the National Alliance on Mental Illness and our connection to a nationwide network of support and advocacy.
Today, our members include individuals living with mental illness, family members, friends, advocates, mental health professionals, and service providers—all working together to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and ensure that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
NAMI Schenectady is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
*Family Support: The NAMI Family Support Group meets almost every Wednesday evening (check Recent Posts for exceptions) at Ellis Hospital from 6-8 PM. A trained Clinical Social Worker, Kevin Moran, facilitates the group for family members of people suffering from a mental health condition or mental illness. For more information, contact the NAMI support line at 518-986-9114. Anyone with an impacted family member is welcome regardless of residency. To attend this confidential, free group, sign in at Ellis Hospital’s Security Desk, accessed through the Emergency Department entrance, and ask directions to the C3 conference room in the Psychiatry Department.. Please check the Directory of Services (in the drop-down menu above) for listings of other Capital District Family Support and Children’s Services.
*Friends: Recreational activities, picnics, meetings, and other friendly gatherings are scheduled throughout the year. Check our Postings and Events Calendar from time to time for more information.
*Advocacy: NAMI Schenectady can help in the search for advocacy and self-help groups. Check the Directory of Services in categories such as Benefits, Compeer/Peer Self-Help, and Legal Services to name a few. Also note that a growing list of links is posted on our “Other Resources” page and includes activities in the Capital District, statewide, and nationally.