The National Alliance on Mental Illness, New River Valley has announced the launch of its renowned Family-to-Family program, starting Mar. 12, 2025.
“I was a teen when my older brother was diagnosed with a mental illness,” said Nancy Bodenhorn, co-leader of the Family-to-Family program in the New River Valley. “My family came to a good place after much floundering, and we could have used a class like this.”
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, eight-session educational program designed for family members, friends, and loved ones of adults living with mental health conditions. The program provides valuable information on anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
The course is designed to enhance participants’ understanding and advocacy skills while promoting self-care. Taught by trained family members who have a loved one with a mental health condition, NAMI Family-to-Family is an evidence-based program that provides practical tools and support for families navigating mental health challenges.
“I choose to teach this class as a tribute to my brother and my parents, as a ‘pay it forward’ to others who seek support in managing the changes, challenges, and blessings that come with a mental illness diagnosis in the family,” Bodenhorn said.
The class will be held in-person Wednesday evenings 6- 6:30 p.m. from March 12
through April 30 at Christiansburg Presbyterian Church, which generously offered NAMI space for the program. The address is 107 Main Street, Christiansburg.
NAMI New River Valley invites anyone with a family member or close friend affected by mental illness to participate in this program. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. To register, contact NAMInrvVA@gmail.com or 540 585-1627.
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health
organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
NAMI NRV is an affiliate of NAMI Virginia. NAMI NRV and dedicated volunteer members and leaders work tirelessly to raise awareness and provide essential education, advocacy, and support group programs for people in our community with mental health conditions and their loved ones.
For more information, contact NAMInrvVA@gmail.com or 540 585-1627.
NAMI NRV
