Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Farewell to Board Members
Two of our Board members have left our Board of Directors: Winnie and Lars Schilling. Winnie has served as Vice President of our Board and was instrumental in starting our Art Reach program, providing tickets for cultural opportunities and events to consumers. Lars served as our Treasurer and managed our account for all three of our Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalks. We appreciate their years of service and wish them well in the future.
We are moving!
After 16 years of being headquartered in Glenside (and before that, having our first AMI of Eastern PA office in Oreland), in early 2011 we will be moving our major operations to 100 W. Main Street in Lansdale. We will take over the lease as of January 1st although we may still operate out of the Glenside office until mid or late January. The reason for the re-location is to situate ourselves geographically to better serve Montgomery County’s families and individuals affected by mental illness. This move will consolidate our Norristown and Glenside offices, al-though we will continue to maintain a presence in Norristown (and maintain our bilingual staff there). We will keep our Potts-town office in addition to the office in Lansdale.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Local police officers attend mental illness seminar
NORRISTOWN — The two middle-aged men leading a recent class on a had a brittle, staccato style of telling their life stories.
The individual stories of Michael Solomon and Jack Klein, both of Philadelphia, ended with their eventual acceptance of needing to live with mental illness. But the details of their very different illnesses and the way they keep themselves on an even mental keel helped the “students” in the three-day class understand some of the complexities of mental illness, depression and psychosis.
Two of the eight “students” in the class declined to be identified because their work involved undercover police assignments. The other students included a Bucks County Correctional Facility worker, a state parole agent from Philadelphia, two patrolmen from the Lower Merion police department and one patrolman from the Cheltenham police department.
The Crisis Intervention School for law enforcement and criminal justice personnel trained 473 law enforcement personnel in 2009 at the Montgomery County Emergency Service (MCES) in Norristown. The MCES, located in Building 50 at Norristown State Hospital, operates a 73-bed, in-patient facility for involuntary and voluntary commitments and prisoners with mental health issues. The average length of stay is 8 to 11 days.
Solomon and Klein, under the auspices of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), give a one-hour tutorial to CIS classes several times a month, said Donald Kline, the criminal justice director of MCES. The organization also runs several other classes of varying lengths on mental health systems, psychiatric medication, substance abuse and suicide awareness.
The CIS classes are aimed at teaching law enforcement workers to “stay calm, recognize agitation, not expect rational discussion, initiate relevant conversation and stay positive.”
Solomon, a cordial man who talks in short bursts, worked during the one-hour session to make the law enforcement workers laugh. He was diagnosed with depression after his freshman year at Boston University and put on Stelazine, an anti-psychotic drug, 36 years ago. After taking an overdose of the drug, his mother found him and he was hospitalized at Haverford State Hospital. He recovered from his “MD” - manic depression, long enough to work for his late father’s company for several years.
While living in Philadelphia, Solomon went into “a manic high” that he described as “like driving a car without brakes.” He ended up gambling at Resorts International in Atlantic City.
“I went down there and thought I was the Messiah,” Solomon told the adult students. Solomon’s uncle came to the gambling hall and took him to a 30-day stay at a private psychiatric hospital. With a Lithium treatment he was able to transition into a half-way house from 1986 to 1987.
He has gone through a divorce and a remarriage, the death of his father and several emotional crises while coping with his mental illness. Solomon, the successful sales manager of a food distributor, is proud that he is the senior presenter in Montgomery County for the Crisis Intervention Specialist program at MCES. He takes Klonopin and Clozaril, does a lab test once a month to monitor chemical levels and sees a psychiatrist regularly.
“I love making people laugh. I’m at my cousin’s office because I can cope that way,” he said. “Being married for me is another coping skill.”
Klein said he started sniffing airplane glue at 13, got involved in juvenile crime and eventually was “diverted” from a jail term by “volunteering” for the U.S. Army. He served in Vietnam and described himself as the “prototype for Corporal Klinger,” a television character in “M*A*S*H*” who faked mental illnesses. His military job was processing soldiers’ remains.
“I’ve gone through most of the (mental illness) diagnosis in the book,” Klein said. “I’ve been at Haverford State Hospital, in the Veteran’s Administration psychiatry system and other hospitals.”
“It took me a while to accept that I had a drug problem,” Klein said. “I was in and out of hospitals and finally got sober in 1980.”
Klein has not had an alcoholic drink or taken an illegal drug since 1980, he said. His successful treatment involves going to counselors, nearly constant exercise and a 12-step Alcoholics Anonymous program.
Jack’s coping skill starts with lap swimming. He goes to a senior center and does 2.5 miles of lap swimming on most mornings, he said.
“It gets me awake and helps me de-stress by getting my day started a little better,” Klein said. “I need my calendar to be full with a lot of different things.”
“Keep up the good work. Share what you learned today with your co-workers,” Solomon said. “My hope is that when you go back to your jobs and you cross paths with someone who is stressed and showing symptoms you can help them.”
“The media tells us how awful mental illness is. Its our job to allay those fears and teach people how to relate in a calm professional manner,” said Michelle Monzo, the Forensic Division & Education Specialist at MCES. “We are all individuals.”
The individual stories of Michael Solomon and Jack Klein, both of Philadelphia, ended with their eventual acceptance of needing to live with mental illness. But the details of their very different illnesses and the way they keep themselves on an even mental keel helped the “students” in the three-day class understand some of the complexities of mental illness, depression and psychosis.
Two of the eight “students” in the class declined to be identified because their work involved undercover police assignments. The other students included a Bucks County Correctional Facility worker, a state parole agent from Philadelphia, two patrolmen from the Lower Merion police department and one patrolman from the Cheltenham police department.
The Crisis Intervention School for law enforcement and criminal justice personnel trained 473 law enforcement personnel in 2009 at the Montgomery County Emergency Service (MCES) in Norristown. The MCES, located in Building 50 at Norristown State Hospital, operates a 73-bed, in-patient facility for involuntary and voluntary commitments and prisoners with mental health issues. The average length of stay is 8 to 11 days.
Solomon and Klein, under the auspices of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), give a one-hour tutorial to CIS classes several times a month, said Donald Kline, the criminal justice director of MCES. The organization also runs several other classes of varying lengths on mental health systems, psychiatric medication, substance abuse and suicide awareness.
The CIS classes are aimed at teaching law enforcement workers to “stay calm, recognize agitation, not expect rational discussion, initiate relevant conversation and stay positive.”
Solomon, a cordial man who talks in short bursts, worked during the one-hour session to make the law enforcement workers laugh. He was diagnosed with depression after his freshman year at Boston University and put on Stelazine, an anti-psychotic drug, 36 years ago. After taking an overdose of the drug, his mother found him and he was hospitalized at Haverford State Hospital. He recovered from his “MD” - manic depression, long enough to work for his late father’s company for several years.
While living in Philadelphia, Solomon went into “a manic high” that he described as “like driving a car without brakes.” He ended up gambling at Resorts International in Atlantic City.
“I went down there and thought I was the Messiah,” Solomon told the adult students. Solomon’s uncle came to the gambling hall and took him to a 30-day stay at a private psychiatric hospital. With a Lithium treatment he was able to transition into a half-way house from 1986 to 1987.
He has gone through a divorce and a remarriage, the death of his father and several emotional crises while coping with his mental illness. Solomon, the successful sales manager of a food distributor, is proud that he is the senior presenter in Montgomery County for the Crisis Intervention Specialist program at MCES. He takes Klonopin and Clozaril, does a lab test once a month to monitor chemical levels and sees a psychiatrist regularly.
“I love making people laugh. I’m at my cousin’s office because I can cope that way,” he said. “Being married for me is another coping skill.”
Klein said he started sniffing airplane glue at 13, got involved in juvenile crime and eventually was “diverted” from a jail term by “volunteering” for the U.S. Army. He served in Vietnam and described himself as the “prototype for Corporal Klinger,” a television character in “M*A*S*H*” who faked mental illnesses. His military job was processing soldiers’ remains.
“I’ve gone through most of the (mental illness) diagnosis in the book,” Klein said. “I’ve been at Haverford State Hospital, in the Veteran’s Administration psychiatry system and other hospitals.”
“It took me a while to accept that I had a drug problem,” Klein said. “I was in and out of hospitals and finally got sober in 1980.”
Klein has not had an alcoholic drink or taken an illegal drug since 1980, he said. His successful treatment involves going to counselors, nearly constant exercise and a 12-step Alcoholics Anonymous program.
Jack’s coping skill starts with lap swimming. He goes to a senior center and does 2.5 miles of lap swimming on most mornings, he said.
“It gets me awake and helps me de-stress by getting my day started a little better,” Klein said. “I need my calendar to be full with a lot of different things.”
“Keep up the good work. Share what you learned today with your co-workers,” Solomon said. “My hope is that when you go back to your jobs and you cross paths with someone who is stressed and showing symptoms you can help them.”
“The media tells us how awful mental illness is. Its our job to allay those fears and teach people how to relate in a calm professional manner,” said Michelle Monzo, the Forensic Division & Education Specialist at MCES. “We are all individuals.”
Monday, November 1, 2010
Midterm Elections Looming
As we are now only one day out from the mid-term elections it is crucial to keep in mind that the issues relevant to our mental health community ought to be bi-partisan issues as mental illness knows no party affiliation.
Not only is it critical that you vote but I ask that each of us ensure that we assist others in our mental health and broader disabilities community to have the opportunity to cast their vote as well.
The results of the election will determine the leadership and agenda-setting party within both chambers of Congress and, on the state level, usher in a new administration and potential waft of new freshman members of the general assembly. These times are ripe with opportunities for coalition building amongst NAMI affiliates and potential partnering organizations throughout the state.
· Make an informed decision before you cast your vote. Learn where the candidates stand on issues of relevance to our community. Go to www.namiswpa.org and click on the ‘Voter’s Guide” icon on the homepage.
· Go to www.votespa.com the Pa Department of State’s online voting information and resource center to locate polling places, contact county election officials and for other useful information and Election Day tips.
Look for a complete wrap-up of the results of the mid-term elections and the potential impact on our mental health community (including next steps for legislative advocacy) in subsequent "Call to Action" alerts and within the winter 2011 edition of the ‘Voice”.
Link to NAMI Southwestern PA Voter's Guide:
http://www.namiswpa.org/documents/uploadeddocs/VotersGuideSWPA1.pdf
(Much thanks to our friends at NAMI PA MainLine for the template of the voter's guide. Go to their website to access guides for districts throughout the state) www.nami.org/sites/NAMIPAMainLine
As always sincere thanks to each of you for your ongoing efforts to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illnesses and let's get out and vote next Tuesday!
Not only is it critical that you vote but I ask that each of us ensure that we assist others in our mental health and broader disabilities community to have the opportunity to cast their vote as well.
The results of the election will determine the leadership and agenda-setting party within both chambers of Congress and, on the state level, usher in a new administration and potential waft of new freshman members of the general assembly. These times are ripe with opportunities for coalition building amongst NAMI affiliates and potential partnering organizations throughout the state.
· Make an informed decision before you cast your vote. Learn where the candidates stand on issues of relevance to our community. Go to www.namiswpa.org and click on the ‘Voter’s Guide” icon on the homepage.
· Go to www.votespa.com the Pa Department of State’s online voting information and resource center to locate polling places, contact county election officials and for other useful information and Election Day tips.
Look for a complete wrap-up of the results of the mid-term elections and the potential impact on our mental health community (including next steps for legislative advocacy) in subsequent "Call to Action" alerts and within the winter 2011 edition of the ‘Voice”.
Link to NAMI Southwestern PA Voter's Guide:
http://www.namiswpa.org/documents/uploadeddocs/VotersGuideSWPA1.pdf
(Much thanks to our friends at NAMI PA MainLine for the template of the voter's guide. Go to their website to access guides for districts throughout the state) www.nami.org/sites/NAMIPAMainLine
As always sincere thanks to each of you for your ongoing efforts to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illnesses and let's get out and vote next Tuesday!
Friday, September 10, 2010
NAMI Montgomery County Monthly Meeting Date Change
Starting in October, we will hold our monthly meetings on, the first Wednesday of each month at the Blue Bell Campus of Montgomery County Community College. The meetings for this fall (October, November and December) will be held in the large auditorium of the Science Center at 7 PM. We encourage carpooling to the meetings, especially for those not comfortable with driving at night, and we hope to assist in coordinating this for our members.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Norristown Family Support Group
Norristown Family Support Group will change to the second Monday of the Month, starting in November. There will be no Norristown Family Support Group meeting in October due to the Federal holiday on October 11th. Please consider attending our Monthly Educational meeting, at Montgomery County Community College, Blue Bell campus on October 6th, at 7 PM in the Science Center.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
NAMI Montgomery County Helps Support POWER Program
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.
Read the complete story.
Read the complete story.
Friday, August 13, 2010
NEW Bucks County Peer to Peer Training
Recovery: Learning to Live Well
Bucks County announces its fall class schedule. There is no cost to take our classes, however registration IS REQUIRED. Call 1-866-399-NAMI(6264) to register.
Peer to Peer Classes:
Beginning Tuesday, September 14 and continuing for 10 weeks at 6:30 P.M.
Blooming Glen Mennonite Church
713 Blooming Glen Rd.
Blooming Glen (Perkasie), PA 18911
and
Beginning Wednesday, September 15 and continuing for 10 weeks at 6:30 P.M.
Abington Memorial Health Center (formerly Warminster Hospital)
225 Newtown Rd.
Warminster, PA 18974
The NAMI Peer-to-Peer education course provides a full approach to recovery for people with mental illness who are interested in achieving and maintaining wellness.
The course is taught by trained peer mentors who are successfully managing their own conditions. The course uses a combination of lecture, interactive exercises, and structured processes offered in a confidential setting.
- Share experiences with peers who are also working toward recovery
- Gain further insight into mental illness
- Gain knowledge of how to manage and cope with circumstances
- Learn to identify feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and events that can result in a possible relapse
- Learn how to be an active participant in a treatment plan
- Learn how to strengthen interpersonal relationships
The nine week course is offered free of charge, and meets for a two-hour session weekly.
Visit www.nami.org/peertopeer, phone the NAMI HelpLine (1-866-399-NAMI(6264), or e-mail info@nami.org
NEW Bucks County Family to Family Classes
Bucks County announces its fall class schedule. For the first time, due to popular demand, there will be a Family to Family class in the upper Bucks area. There is no cost to take the classes, however registration IS REQUIRED.
Family to Family classes:
Beginning Monday, September 13 and continuing for 12 weeks at 7:00 P.M.
Blooming Glen Mennonite Church
713 Blooming Glen Rd.
Blooming Glen (Perkasie), PA 18911
and
Beginning Tuesday, September 14 and continuing for 12 weeks at 7:00 P.M.
Crossing Community Church
80 Silver Lake Rd.
Newtown, PA 18940
Classes fill up quickly, so contact: 1-866-399-NAMI (6264) to register.
Family to Family classes:
Beginning Monday, September 13 and continuing for 12 weeks at 7:00 P.M.
Blooming Glen Mennonite Church
713 Blooming Glen Rd.
Blooming Glen (Perkasie), PA 18911
and
Beginning Tuesday, September 14 and continuing for 12 weeks at 7:00 P.M.
Crossing Community Church
80 Silver Lake Rd.
Newtown, PA 18940
Classes fill up quickly, so contact: 1-866-399-NAMI (6264) to register.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
NEW Family to Family Class Starting Sept 22 near Lankenau Hospital
NAMI PA, Main Line Presents its FALL 2010 FAMILY-to-FAMILY (F2F) Education Program.
Location: LANKENAU Hospital area
When: Beginning WEDNESDAY, September 22
From 7 to 9:30 PM
For more information and to register contact Judy Green at 610 - 668 - 7917 or email F2FMainLine@aol.com
Family-to-Family is a series of 12 weekly classes, one evening per week, structured to help family members understand and support a relative diagnosed with a serious mental illness while maintaining their own wellbeing. The course is taught by trained volunteer family members who know what it’s like to have a loved-one with a serious mental illness. F2F is offered as a community service free of charge. REGISTRATION is REQUIRED
Location: LANKENAU Hospital area
When: Beginning WEDNESDAY, September 22
From 7 to 9:30 PM
For more information and to register contact Judy Green at 610 - 668 - 7917 or email F2FMainLine@aol.com
Family-to-Family is a series of 12 weekly classes, one evening per week, structured to help family members understand and support a relative diagnosed with a serious mental illness while maintaining their own wellbeing. The course is taught by trained volunteer family members who know what it’s like to have a loved-one with a serious mental illness. F2F is offered as a community service free of charge. REGISTRATION is REQUIRED
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
July Adult “Ask the Doctor” Call with Guest Xavier Amador
Save the Date: Friday, July 23, 2010
Please join us for our monthly adult issues conference call with NAMI’s Medical Director Dr. Ken Duckworth and guest Xavier Amador. Dr. Amador is an internationally sought-after speaker, clinical psychologist, and a professor at Columbia University, Teachers College, in New York City. He is the Founder and Director of the LEAP Institute and author of eight books including the national best seller “I’m Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!”
He will discuss “People Living with Serious Mental Illness that are in ‘Denial’ and Refuse Treatment”
The call is toll free and scheduled from 11-12:30 Eastern Time on Friday, July 23rd. To access the call, please dial 1-888-858-6021; participant code 309918#. This call can be made from any phone.
Please join us for our monthly adult issues conference call with NAMI’s Medical Director Dr. Ken Duckworth and guest Xavier Amador. Dr. Amador is an internationally sought-after speaker, clinical psychologist, and a professor at Columbia University, Teachers College, in New York City. He is the Founder and Director of the LEAP Institute and author of eight books including the national best seller “I’m Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!”
He will discuss “People Living with Serious Mental Illness that are in ‘Denial’ and Refuse Treatment”
The call is toll free and scheduled from 11-12:30 Eastern Time on Friday, July 23rd. To access the call, please dial 1-888-858-6021; participant code 309918#. This call can be made from any phone.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Pennsylvania Peer Support Coalition
WHO: All peers doing peer support work
WHAT: Southeast Regional Peer Support Coalition Meeting
WHERE: Norristown State Hospital
1001 Sterigere Street
Building #6
First Floor
Norristown, Pa. 19401
WHEN: Friday, August 13, 2010
1:00pm – 3:00pm
RSVP: Maureen Feeny-Byrnes at mfeenyby@montcopa.org or 610-278-3626
Please bring snacks, if needed
WHAT: Southeast Regional Peer Support Coalition Meeting
WHERE: Norristown State Hospital
1001 Sterigere Street
Building #6
First Floor
Norristown, Pa. 19401
WHEN: Friday, August 13, 2010
1:00pm – 3:00pm
RSVP: Maureen Feeny-Byrnes at mfeenyby@montcopa.org or 610-278-3626
Please bring snacks, if needed
Monday, July 12, 2010
Additional Family to Familiy Classes - Delaware County
New Family to Family class in Delaware County, starting September 13, 2010 for twelve consecutive weeks at the First Presbyterian Church of Lansdowne, Lansdowne & Greenwood Avenues, Westminster Hall off the front driveway. 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
For information call the office @ 610-623-0071 or Linda Macalister 610-284-7150 or Jeannette Shepper @610-328-0998.
You must register to attend.
For information call the office @ 610-623-0071 or Linda Macalister 610-284-7150 or Jeannette Shepper @610-328-0998.
You must register to attend.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Doctors, Depression, and DNA
In a June 25, 2010 Newsweek.Com article, reporter Mary Carmichael asks the question: “Can a genetic test help patients get on the right antidepressant?” A new test, GeneSightRx, helps doctors and patients pick the right anti-depressants. This new test has replaced the trial and error approach at the Mayo Clinic and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, the two institutions where it was developed. Click here to read the entire article.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Family-to-Family Education Programs will be offered this Fall in the Norristown and Glenside Offices
For more information or to register for either class please call 215-886-0350
The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a free 12-week course for families and caregivers of individuals with mental illness. Trained family members teach the course. All instruction and course materials are free to class participants. The Family-to-Family curriculum focuses on diagnosis, medications, brain function, and communication skills for disorders such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Family-to-Family classes are offered in hundreds of communities across the country as well as in Canada and Mexico.
Norristown Office: Catholic Social Services 353 E. Johnson Highway
When: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 6:30-9:00 PM
Instructors: Sue Soriano and Carol Caruso
Glenside Office: 100 South Keswick Ave, Glenside 19038
When: Monday, September 13, 2010 6:30-9:00 PM
Instructors: Anne Magowan and Al Grabish
For more information or to register for either class please call 215-886-0350 or e-mail: montconami@aol.com
Deadline for registration is September 10, 2010
The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a free 12-week course for families and caregivers of individuals with mental illness. Trained family members teach the course. All instruction and course materials are free to class participants. The Family-to-Family curriculum focuses on diagnosis, medications, brain function, and communication skills for disorders such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Family-to-Family classes are offered in hundreds of communities across the country as well as in Canada and Mexico.
Norristown Office: Catholic Social Services 353 E. Johnson Highway
When: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 6:30-9:00 PM
Instructors: Sue Soriano and Carol Caruso
Glenside Office: 100 South Keswick Ave, Glenside 19038
When: Monday, September 13, 2010 6:30-9:00 PM
Instructors: Anne Magowan and Al Grabish
For more information or to register for either class please call 215-886-0350 or e-mail: montconami@aol.com
Deadline for registration is September 10, 2010
Friday, June 18, 2010
DID YOU KNOW . . .
Montgomery County has a great online resource, a website called the Network of Care for Behavioral Health, provided by the Montgomery County Department of Behavioral Health/Developmental Disabilities.
This Web site is a resource for individuals, families and agencies concerned with behavioral health. It provides information about behavioral health services, laws, and related news, as well as communication tools and other features. Regardless of where you begin your search for assistance with behavioral health issues, the Network of Care helps you find what you need - it helps ensure that there is "No Wrong Door" for those who need services. This Web site can greatly assist in our efforts to protect our greatest human asset - our beautiful minds.
Please click here to learn how to get services in Montgomery County
This Web site is a resource for individuals, families and agencies concerned with behavioral health. It provides information about behavioral health services, laws, and related news, as well as communication tools and other features. Regardless of where you begin your search for assistance with behavioral health issues, the Network of Care helps you find what you need - it helps ensure that there is "No Wrong Door" for those who need services. This Web site can greatly assist in our efforts to protect our greatest human asset - our beautiful minds.
Please click here to learn how to get services in Montgomery County
Sunday, May 9, 2010
PA Faces a Significant Revenue Shortfall
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department Public Welfare - BUDGET UPDATE
May 6, 2010
PA Faces a Significant Revenue Shortfall.
To help the economy we must avoid cuts if we can. Targeted revenue increases are the best approach.
The Governor’s proposed budget for DPW focuses on sustaining services, quality results, and accountability. When Governor Rendell released the budget proposal in February, he noted a major financial risk if there was a shortfall of state general fund revenue. This week, the Governor announced a revenue shortfall of $1 billion as of the end of April. The state, like many across the country, faces calls for cuts.
Further cuts to the DPW budget harm the PA economy and could prolong the recession.
DPW funding supports jobs that sustain the economy
The health and human services sectors employ more than one in ten working Pennsylvanians.
• PA hospitals employ more than 270,000 people directly.
• Nursing facilities employ more than 75,000 people.
• More than 200,000 work in other health and human service settings supported through DPW’s public investment.
Every million dollars cut from health investments in the DPW budget results in a loss of $2.7 million in Pennsylvania business activity.
DPW spending brings federal dollars into the PA economy
DPW programs bring in more than $12 billion in federal funding that gets spent here in the PA economy. Almost any cut of state funds in DPW is compounded by a loss of federal dollars.
The Governor’s plans for raising new revenue will help us avoid harmful cuts, and will not harm the economy. In addition to drawing down more federal funds, the plan calls for:
Taxing tobacco make good sense for PA’s health and finances ($42 million next year)
A tax on cigars and smokeless tobacco is good public health policy. PA is the only state in the nation without a smokeless tobacco tax and one of two states without a cigar tax.
Closing tax loopholes for corporations is only fair ($66 million next year)
71% of corporations subject to PA Corporate Net Income Tax pay no tax at all. Major corporations enjoy an unfair advantage over PA’s small business because of loopholes in the law.
A natural gas severance tax is needed on Marcellus Shale reserves ($161 million next year)
Enacting a natural gas severance tax will ensure that big out-of-state gas companies, not taxpayers, pay the environmental and public costs of increased drilling.
Pennsylvania taxpayers can no longer afford to give big business a bonus for paying their sales taxes on time ($74 million next year)
Ordinary citizens don’t get a discount when they pay their personal income taxes by April 15. This antiquated incentive for big business should be eliminated.
The mission of the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) is to protect and serve Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens, to promote, improve and sustain the quality of family life, and to break the cycle of dependency, while managing our resources effectively and promoting respect for employees. For more information about the DPW budget visit www.dpw.state.pa.us. For information on how to support funding for this critical program visit the non-partisan Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center at http://www.pennbpc.org/
May 6, 2010
PA Faces a Significant Revenue Shortfall.
To help the economy we must avoid cuts if we can. Targeted revenue increases are the best approach.
The Governor’s proposed budget for DPW focuses on sustaining services, quality results, and accountability. When Governor Rendell released the budget proposal in February, he noted a major financial risk if there was a shortfall of state general fund revenue. This week, the Governor announced a revenue shortfall of $1 billion as of the end of April. The state, like many across the country, faces calls for cuts.
Further cuts to the DPW budget harm the PA economy and could prolong the recession.
DPW funding supports jobs that sustain the economy
The health and human services sectors employ more than one in ten working Pennsylvanians.
• PA hospitals employ more than 270,000 people directly.
• Nursing facilities employ more than 75,000 people.
• More than 200,000 work in other health and human service settings supported through DPW’s public investment.
Every million dollars cut from health investments in the DPW budget results in a loss of $2.7 million in Pennsylvania business activity.
DPW spending brings federal dollars into the PA economy
DPW programs bring in more than $12 billion in federal funding that gets spent here in the PA economy. Almost any cut of state funds in DPW is compounded by a loss of federal dollars.
The Governor’s plans for raising new revenue will help us avoid harmful cuts, and will not harm the economy. In addition to drawing down more federal funds, the plan calls for:
Taxing tobacco make good sense for PA’s health and finances ($42 million next year)
A tax on cigars and smokeless tobacco is good public health policy. PA is the only state in the nation without a smokeless tobacco tax and one of two states without a cigar tax.
Closing tax loopholes for corporations is only fair ($66 million next year)
71% of corporations subject to PA Corporate Net Income Tax pay no tax at all. Major corporations enjoy an unfair advantage over PA’s small business because of loopholes in the law.
A natural gas severance tax is needed on Marcellus Shale reserves ($161 million next year)
Enacting a natural gas severance tax will ensure that big out-of-state gas companies, not taxpayers, pay the environmental and public costs of increased drilling.
Pennsylvania taxpayers can no longer afford to give big business a bonus for paying their sales taxes on time ($74 million next year)
Ordinary citizens don’t get a discount when they pay their personal income taxes by April 15. This antiquated incentive for big business should be eliminated.
The mission of the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) is to protect and serve Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens, to promote, improve and sustain the quality of family life, and to break the cycle of dependency, while managing our resources effectively and promoting respect for employees. For more information about the DPW budget visit www.dpw.state.pa.us. For information on how to support funding for this critical program visit the non-partisan Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center at http://www.pennbpc.org/
DPW Budget Message - PA Faces a Significant Revenue Shortfall
Related links included on the following pages:
DPW Budget Updates: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003683356.htm
Secretary of Public Welfare: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/
Budget Briefing Information: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003683356.htm
Budget Information: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003678716.htm
DPW Budget Updates: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003683356.htm
Secretary of Public Welfare: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/
Budget Briefing Information: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003683356.htm
Budget Information: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/About/Secretary/003678716.htm
A CELEBRATION OF REMEMBRANCE 2010
Saturday May 22, 2010
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Raindate May 23, 2010
Broad Run Park, Pavilion A
1475 Broad Run Road
Downingtown, Pa 19335
Join our Chester County affiliate in an afternoon of remembering those we’ve lost affected by mental illness. Help raise funds for NAMI Chester County. Help us decrease stigma and raise public awareness about mental illness.
The afternoon's Agenda:
A picnic with snacks and beverages will be provided.
At 2:30 a brief memorial service, that will concluding with doves being released.
Faye Hoek will treat us to fantastic vocals on acoustic guitar.
Enlightening information will be shared.
The Gallagher Family authors of the book "No More Secrets" speaks about Depression, Anxiety, and Attempted Suicide.
Bring a lawn chair or sit on a picnic bench and enjoy.
A drawing will be held with great prizes donated by local merchants one of which are 2 box seat tickets to a Phillies game, donated by Nova Care.
Purchase a raffle ticket and/ or drop a donation in the donation box to help raise funds for NAMI a very worthy cause. The National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI, is dedicated to the understanding of mental illnesses and to the recovery of all individuals whose lives are affected by these diseases.
Any questions contact Irene Roach at 610-269-5179 or iroach0000@yahoo.com
Find directions and more information at: chester.nami.org
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Raindate May 23, 2010
Broad Run Park, Pavilion A
1475 Broad Run Road
Downingtown, Pa 19335
Join our Chester County affiliate in an afternoon of remembering those we’ve lost affected by mental illness. Help raise funds for NAMI Chester County. Help us decrease stigma and raise public awareness about mental illness.
The afternoon's Agenda:
A picnic with snacks and beverages will be provided.
At 2:30 a brief memorial service, that will concluding with doves being released.
Faye Hoek will treat us to fantastic vocals on acoustic guitar.
Enlightening information will be shared.
The Gallagher Family authors of the book "No More Secrets" speaks about Depression, Anxiety, and Attempted Suicide.
Bring a lawn chair or sit on a picnic bench and enjoy.
A drawing will be held with great prizes donated by local merchants one of which are 2 box seat tickets to a Phillies game, donated by Nova Care.
Purchase a raffle ticket and/ or drop a donation in the donation box to help raise funds for NAMI a very worthy cause. The National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI, is dedicated to the understanding of mental illnesses and to the recovery of all individuals whose lives are affected by these diseases.
Any questions contact Irene Roach at 610-269-5179 or iroach0000@yahoo.com
Find directions and more information at: chester.nami.org
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Transition Resource Fair
Thursday, May 6, 2010
7:00-9:00PM
Wissahickon High School Cafeteria
521 Houston Road, Ambler, PA 19002
Join us for a A Community Resource Fair with special sessions just for youth!
Featured speakers will cover topics such as getting and keeping a job, Travel Training, financial planning….with opportunities for youth to participate in mock interviews… and more!
The Resource Fair will be open from 7-9 PM. Representatives from the following areas will be available to provide information and to answer your questions.
• Advocacy Groups
• Community Resources
• Postsecondary Education
• Recreation and Leisure
• Employment/Day Programming
For more information: Jacki Lyster, MCIU Training and Consulting 610-755-9393 jlyster@mciu.org
7:00-9:00PM
Wissahickon High School Cafeteria
521 Houston Road, Ambler, PA 19002
Join us for a A Community Resource Fair with special sessions just for youth!
Featured speakers will cover topics such as getting and keeping a job, Travel Training, financial planning….with opportunities for youth to participate in mock interviews… and more!
The Resource Fair will be open from 7-9 PM. Representatives from the following areas will be available to provide information and to answer your questions.
• Advocacy Groups
• Community Resources
• Postsecondary Education
• Recreation and Leisure
• Employment/Day Programming
For more information: Jacki Lyster, MCIU Training and Consulting 610-755-9393 jlyster@mciu.org
Thursday, April 22, 2010
You're Gonna Miss Me
This Monday, April 26th, Belmont Behavioral Health will be sponsoring a screening of the film "You're Gonna Miss Me" at International House, 3701 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia. The doors open at 6:30 PM and the film begins at 7 PM. A panel discussion will begin at 8:45 PM. This is free to the public and light refreshments will be offered. An RSVP is requested, not required. register at www.eventbrite.com/org/442773872 or contact Eve at barnette@einstein.edu or 215-581-3829.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
NAMI-PA is being featured on the next Puerto Rican Panorama
The program will present an update of the Alliance, announce the upcoming NAMI walk in Montgomery County and an interview with versatile Puerto Rican artist José MartÃn Pacheco.
This show airs on 6abc-TV on Sunday, April 25, at 5 a.m. and overnight between Sunday & Monday at 3:40.
After the weekend, it can be viewed on the 2nd WPVI (digital) channel on 6.2 or on your cable system (245 on Comcast; 466 on FiOS; etc.)
This show airs on 6abc-TV on Sunday, April 25, at 5 a.m. and overnight between Sunday & Monday at 3:40.
After the weekend, it can be viewed on the 2nd WPVI (digital) channel on 6.2 or on your cable system (245 on Comcast; 466 on FiOS; etc.)
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Mutual Support Group for People Who Hear Voices
When: Mondays from 3:30-5:00 PM
Where: Friends Meeting House, Swede St. at Jacoby St. Norristown, PA 19401
Free and open only to people who hear voices
Begins May 3, 2010
Call Berta at 610-270-3004
Where: Friends Meeting House, Swede St. at Jacoby St. Norristown, PA 19401
Free and open only to people who hear voices
Begins May 3, 2010
Call Berta at 610-270-3004
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Breaking the Silence: Mental Illness and the Family
Do you have a family member suffering from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other serious mental illness? Do you know where to find help? Do you think enough support is available?
NAMI PA Chester County presents a screening and discussion of the eye-opening public television program “MINDS ON THE EDGE: Facing Mental Illness”
Christ Memorial Lutheran Church
Paoli Pike and Line Road, Malvern
April 15 7:00-9:00 pm
NAMI Chesco Office: 484-947-5643
Let’s talk about improving support and treatment for people with mental illness in our community! Learn more about mental illness at www.nami.org and www.mindsontheedge.org
Funding for MINDS ON THE EDGE: Facing Mental Illness provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to enhance public understanding of science and technology in the modern world. Additional Funding for outreach initiatives provided by the van Ameringen Foundation.
NAMI PA Chester County presents a screening and discussion of the eye-opening public television program “MINDS ON THE EDGE: Facing Mental Illness”
Christ Memorial Lutheran Church
Paoli Pike and Line Road, Malvern
April 15 7:00-9:00 pm
NAMI Chesco Office: 484-947-5643
Let’s talk about improving support and treatment for people with mental illness in our community! Learn more about mental illness at www.nami.org and www.mindsontheedge.org
Funding for MINDS ON THE EDGE: Facing Mental Illness provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to enhance public understanding of science and technology in the modern world. Additional Funding for outreach initiatives provided by the van Ameringen Foundation.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
ATTN: Parents/Caregivers of Children and Adolescents
Mental Health Association of South Eastern Pennsylvania Presents PEAK – Being Your Child’s Best Advocate - A Free 4 week Educational Workshop For parents/caregivers who want to learn how to become their child’s best advocate with the systems that serve children and adolescents in Montgomery County. As a participant, you will learn about the following: Behavioral Health, Special Education, Drug and Alcohol, Juvenile Justice, Developmental Disabilities, Early Intervention, Children and Youth
WHEN: April 13 – May 4, 2010 Tuesday Evenings 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
WHERE: Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, 1605 West Main Street, Norristown, PA 19403
Cost: Workshop is FREE. Light Meal Provided. A small Stipend towards your Child Care expense will be provided based upon your attendance and participation.
Preregistration is required.
Register by phone, mail or email to: LisaNovick, 601 DeKalb Street, Suite 3 , Norristown, PA 19401, tel 610-279 8511 ext.113, email lnovick@mhasp.org
WHEN: April 13 – May 4, 2010 Tuesday Evenings 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
WHERE: Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, 1605 West Main Street, Norristown, PA 19403
Cost: Workshop is FREE. Light Meal Provided. A small Stipend towards your Child Care expense will be provided based upon your attendance and participation.
Preregistration is required.
Register by phone, mail or email to: LisaNovick, 601 DeKalb Street, Suite 3 , Norristown, PA 19401, tel 610-279 8511 ext.113, email lnovick@mhasp.org
Monday, March 29, 2010
Educational Forum on Assisted Out-Patient Treatment
The National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) of Montgomery County will hold an educational forum regarding current and proposed legislation on assisted outpatient treatment for individuals with mental illness. The event will feature mental health professionals, legislators, family members and individuals in recovery. Our moderator will be Maiken Scott, behavioral health editor for WHYY. The event will take place at Montgomery County Human Services Center, 1430 Dekalb Street, Norristown, on Wednesday, April 7th, from 7-9pm. This event is open to the public. Seating is limited and until noon on Monday April 5th, we will prioritize NAMI MontCo members and residents of Montgomery County. After that time registration will be open to all interested in attending. Please call (215-886-0350) to RSVP.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalks collaborates with Actress Glenn Close's BringChange2Mind
BringChange2Mind.org is a not-for-profit organization created by Glenn Close, the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation (CABF), Fountain House, and Garen and Shari Staglin of IMHRO (International Mental Health Research Organization).
The idea of a national anti-stigma campaign was born of a partnership between Glenn Close and Fountain House, where Glenn volunteered in order to learn about mental illness, which both her sister and nephew suffer from.
BringChange2Mind.org has partnered with NAMI to bring teams to our NAMIWalk in the effort to raise awareness and to eliminate the stigma of mental illness.
Check out Glenn Close's YouTube video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhEhBCt0slw
The idea of a national anti-stigma campaign was born of a partnership between Glenn Close and Fountain House, where Glenn volunteered in order to learn about mental illness, which both her sister and nephew suffer from.
BringChange2Mind.org has partnered with NAMI to bring teams to our NAMIWalk in the effort to raise awareness and to eliminate the stigma of mental illness.
Check out Glenn Close's YouTube video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhEhBCt0slw
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Call for Board Candidate Nominations and Bylaws Amendments
We currently have three seats on our Board of Directors to fill, and are accepting nominations for candidates. Criteria for eligibility: - Be a member in good standing of the affiliate - Be willing to attend and participate in monthly Board meetings and all committee assignments - Be willing to promote the NAMI mission We are also accepting proposed revisions to our Bylaws. If you are interested in submitting your name or someone else’s as a candidate, please put your nomination in writing (email or hard copy) and provide the individual’s name, address, why you are nominating that person and what you feel they would bring to our MontCo Board. Nominations may be submitted to montconami@aol.com or mailed to NAMI, 100 So. Keswick Avenue, Glenside 19038. If you would like a copy of our Bylaws please contact us by email or at 215-886-0350.
Friday, March 19, 2010
HOLD THE DATE . . . April 7, 2010 - Forum on AOT
We’re finalizing plans to hold a public Information Forum on Assisted Outpatient Treatment. Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) laws allow for court-ordered treatment on an outpatient basis, and have been passed in several states starting a decade ago with Kendra’s Law in New York. Pennsylvania’s Mental Health Procedures Act has included involuntary outpatient commitment for over 40 years – a little known and little used fact! Our forum will provide information on the current Pennsylvania law, proposed amendments and the concerns of individuals with serious mental illness and their families. We urge you to attend, educate yourself and form your own opinion on this issue. We will email an update once plans are finalized, but in the meantime, please hold the date:
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
7 PM to 9 PM
Location to be announced
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
7 PM to 9 PM
Location to be announced
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Art Reach Events
Art Reach continues to be a great success. All of our tickets for the Center City Opera Theater’s presentation of Mozart’s The Magic Flute on March 21st were given out, first come first serve within 3 days! (Tickets may still be available for purchase. Please contact the Center City Opera Theater directly at (215) 238-1555) Tickets are still available through Art Reach for Here & Now, presented by the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus. Please contact our office at (215) 886-0350.
Saturday, April 17th, 2010 at 2:00pm
Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus Presents:
Here & Now
AT THE ARDEN THEATER
40 N. 2ND ST.
PHILADELPHIA, PA.
We return to the present to examine the importance of friends, lovers, and others who are there for us in time of need. Among the works featured in this concert is the Philadelphia premiere of “Through a Glass, Darkly,” a portrait of 36 hours in the life of a successful young businessman on the verge of losing everything he holds dear to crystal meth addiction
Saturday, April 17th, 2010 at 2:00pm
Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus Presents:
Here & Now
AT THE ARDEN THEATER
40 N. 2ND ST.
PHILADELPHIA, PA.
We return to the present to examine the importance of friends, lovers, and others who are there for us in time of need. Among the works featured in this concert is the Philadelphia premiere of “Through a Glass, Darkly,” a portrait of 36 hours in the life of a successful young businessman on the verge of losing everything he holds dear to crystal meth addiction
Monday, March 15, 2010
IT'S TIME TO SIGN UP TO WALK NOW!
The Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalk is May 22nd!
Our Walk is growing and we want YOU to be a part of it! Please go to our website and sign up now. Join an existing team or create a team of your own. WHY DO YOU WALK? Please email Neen Davis at neendave@aol.com and share your story with us. We ALL want to STOMP OUT STIGMA and CREATE AWARENESS. Mental Illness touches so many of us. Please sign up now to show your support of this worthy cause.
Our Walk is growing and we want YOU to be a part of it! Please go to our website and sign up now. Join an existing team or create a team of your own. WHY DO YOU WALK? Please email Neen Davis at neendave@aol.com and share your story with us. We ALL want to STOMP OUT STIGMA and CREATE AWARENESS. Mental Illness touches so many of us. Please sign up now to show your support of this worthy cause.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Walk Planning Meeting Feb. 24
We are having a Planning Committee Meeting for our 3rd Annual Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalks on Wednesday Feb. 24th, 6:30 PM, at our Glenside Office (100 So. Keswick Avenue, 19038). For more information or to RSVP Please call 215-886-0350 or contact us at montconami@aol..com.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Family-to-Family and NAMIWALK news
There is still space available for Family to Family, our 12 week course offered at no charge to family members/caregivers of persons with mental illness. The course will begin on Tuesday March 2nd and will run for 12 consecutive Tuesday evenings (6:30 - 9 PM). The course will be offered at Creative Health Services, 11 Robinson Street in Pottstown. For more information or to register call 215-886-0350.
The Planning Committee for our 3rd Annual Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalks will meet at our Glenside office on Wednesday Feb. 24th, 6:30 PM. If you are interested in helping to organize this regional effort to increase awareness and understanding of mental illness and to raise funds for NAMI's support, education and advocacy efforts, please call Carol Caruso at 215-886-0350. Also, go to our website at www.nami.org/namiwalks/Pa/Philly to register yourself as a Walker, to join an existing Walk Team or to form your own Team (families, friends, businesses, schools etc. make great Teams).
Our Kick-Off event will be on Monday March 22nd, 7 PM at Belmont Behavioral Health in Philadelphia. This event is for our Team Captains and sponsors.
The Walk, an effort of six NAMI affiliates in our region, is scheduled for Sunday May 2nd, 10 AM, at Montgomery County Community College in Blue Bell. It's not too late to get on board and be a part of Team NAMIWalks!
The Planning Committee for our 3rd Annual Greater Philadelphia NAMIWalks will meet at our Glenside office on Wednesday Feb. 24th, 6:30 PM. If you are interested in helping to organize this regional effort to increase awareness and understanding of mental illness and to raise funds for NAMI's support, education and advocacy efforts, please call Carol Caruso at 215-886-0350. Also, go to our website at www.nami.org/namiwalks/Pa/Philly to register yourself as a Walker, to join an existing Walk Team or to form your own Team (families, friends, businesses, schools etc. make great Teams).
Our Kick-Off event will be on Monday March 22nd, 7 PM at Belmont Behavioral Health in Philadelphia. This event is for our Team Captains and sponsors.
The Walk, an effort of six NAMI affiliates in our region, is scheduled for Sunday May 2nd, 10 AM, at Montgomery County Community College in Blue Bell. It's not too late to get on board and be a part of Team NAMIWalks!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Snow Alert - Feb 11 Family Support Groups Cancelled
Our Glenside and Pottstown Family Support Groups scheduled for Thursday February 11th are cancelled.
Snow Alert - Feb 10 Connection Support Group Postponed
Our NAMI Connection Peer Support Group scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday February 10th, noon at Pottstown Library, is postponed until Wednesday February 16th, noon at Pottstown Library.
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