Club Feature: USJ’s NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Written by Zoë Sepa
The second addition to our club feature is USJ’s very own chapter of NAMI, which stands for National Alliance on Mental Illness. I sat down with Sophia Gallo, a leader and representative of USJ’s NAMI. We discussed all things related to the clubs beginning, their events, and how they plan to continue to create a safe environment and positive community at USJ. When asked why she had chosen to form NAMI on campus, Sophia shared:
“Dr. Benjamin had posted some fliers up about a club about mental health, and I was really passionate […] I wanted to help spread awareness, promote positivity, get people to understand that it will be okay, and be a good support system on campus. I wanted to help run something that’s good for people.”
With this in mind, NAMI has the goal to create a positive support system for members of the USJ community that either experience their own mental health struggles, or those who just want to be a part of spreading kindness and positivity on campus!
NAMI is very active and has many events that reach the USJ and greater Hartford community. Past events include a NAMI representative donating to local hospitals and shelters in need, ice cream and game night socials that include mental health theming, as well as connecting with SOAR to do small events and crafts such as glitter jars and coloring.
When asking Sophia if there was anything in addition she wished to share, she expressed that NAMI is always looking for new members! Everyone is welcome even if just to learn more, spread positivity, or to contribute to creating a supportive space on campus. Meetings are flexible and tend to occur at least once a month. Goodies and snacks are provided as well! Any members of the USJ community that think that NAMI is something they would like to be a part of are welcome to reach out to current members or faculty involved on campus, say hello at events, and DM the NAMI instagram at usj_nami. Keep an eye out for all the exciting things that NAMI has in store this semester!
Featured image by Zoë Sepa
