Friendship Corner is a programming space historically supported by NAMI Fond du Lac to
provide drop-in services to individuals in the community with mental illness. In the last year,
NAMI FDL has been encouraged by our national and state affiliate organizations to closely
examine how the programming offered by NAMI FDL serves the greater mission and vision of
NAMI and consider whether our services are adequately meeting our assessed community
needs while also aligning with the programming promoted by our nationally affiliated
organization. The Board of Directors for NAMI FDL has made the difficult decision to
discontinue the drop-in services provided at Friendship Corner. While we recognize this service
as valuable for our members and the community, our Board of Directors, in collaboration with
our affiliate organization, NAMI Wisconsin, agree that this service should be offered
autonomously from NAMI.

NAMI Fond du Lac embraces the mission to empower those young and old affected by mental
illness and reduce stigma through support, education and outreach. It is our vision for
individuals to live in a safe and accepting environment that supports and promotes mental
health and recovery. NAMI Wisconsin identifies the primary functions of local NAMI affiliates,
like NAMI FDL, as follows:
● Promote public education and understanding of mental illnesses.
● Offer free peer support, education and outreach programs for individuals with a mental
health diagnosis and their families.
● Engage in community education and advocacy to decrease stigma and increase
awareness.
● Respond to local HelpLine calls and emails from individuals and families seeking help.
● Advocate at the local, state, and national level to improve policies and funding for the
mental health system.

NAMI FDL is invested in providing evidence-based Signature Programming which offers
support, education, and outreach related to mental health in our local community. We believe
this change in how we serve our community will allow NAMI FDL to focus on building
partnerships with community organizations, including schools, law enforcement agencies, and
workplaces, and reach a larger demographic of youth, individuals, and family members
impacted by mental illness. Our Board of Directors is enthusiastic about the opportunity to
further promote NAMI programming in FDL County as we move ahead into 2023.
The final date for drop-in service at NAMI FDL is Friday, December 2nd, 2022.
Our Board of Directors wishes to thank all of our community supporters and volunteers for your
investment in mental health and is dedicated to further promoting NAMI Signature Programming
in Fond du Lac County moving forward.