The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Montgomery County recently presented a check for $2,500 to Montgomery County Community College to help support its Partnership on Work Enrichment and Readiness (POWER) Program. POWER helps individuals in mental health recovery to successfully develop and reach their education and career goals.
Founded in 1979, NAMI Montgomery County is an education, support and advocacy organization with a mission to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by mental illness and their families through support, education and advocacy.
“Our goal at NAMI is to advocate for the full array of services and opportunities needed for those affected by mental illness to lead full and productive lives in the community,” said Carol Caruso, Executive Director of NAMI PA Montgomery County. “The POWER Program is certainly a viable means towards achieving that goal. We are very grateful to have it here at the College as we have seen firsthand how it empowers students to realize their potential and achieve more than they once thought they could.”
The College’s POWER Program is a two-credit education and career exploration course. With the assistance of an individual advisor, participants develop a personalized career plan. Classes, held twice a week, focus on the topics of time management, study skills, public speaking, college success skills, and career assessment, resume writing and professionalism. The classes provide information about financial aid, disability services and college resources.
“Because of the support of the Montgomery County mental health community, the POWER Program has been able to foster the success of many persons with mental illness,” said Diane Haar, Associate Professor of Human Services & Psychology and POWER Program Director. “Students continue in college courses and programs, transfer to other universities, gain part-time or full-time employment and develop friendships and a richer social life. NAMI and the POWER Program share a mutual philosophy and their financial contribution will enhance the success of our students.”
NAMI Montgomery County participates in an annual regional fundraising Walk created to increase awareness, fight the stigma attached to mental illnesses and raise funds for support services, including education and family support. This year’s Walk, The Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalk: Changing Minds . . . One Step at a Time, was held on May 2, 2010, at the College’s Central Campus in Blue Bell. Next year’s walk will also be held at the College and is scheduled for May 22.
Beginning Oct. 6, NAMI Montgomery County will hold its monthly public meetings in the Science Center Auditorium at Montgomery County Community College’ Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, at 7 a.m. Meetings will be held the first Wednesday of each month. These informational meetings feature keynote speakers and will cover topics such as the latest research and services in behavioral health for both children and adults. The meetings are free and are open to the public.
