March Spotlight

Heidi Matthews

iQ iiiHow did you first learn about NAMI NH and how long have you been involved with the organization?

I first heard of NAMI NH by reading a newspaper article listing a class coming up called “Visions for Tomorrow” I took that class 10 years ago and have been active with NAMI NH ever since.

iQ iii Can you share what your NAMI NH volunteer roles are and have been?

I took the training to teach “Parents Meeting The Challenge” and teach this course yearly, I am a co-facilitator of the “Parents meeting the Challenge Support group, and I do public speaking events on a regular basis thru “Life Interrupted”.

iQ iii What motivates you to continue to dedicate your time and energy to NAMI NH?

Even when my life is in crisis I feel motivated to dedicate my time because when I needed NAMI NH the most they were there for me. I feel when I go out and either teach a class or speak to an audience, if there is just even one person’s life changed or view against mental illness changed by my story, my time was well spent.

iQ iii How have the NAMI NH Support and Education programs helped you?

I attend NAMI NH trainings and conferences whenever possible, I feel the more education I can get the better resource I’ll be for someone else in need. NAMI NH gave me hope when I needed it. The support and education I get thru NAMI NH is something I will use for the rest of my life helping others! I can’t thank NAMI NH enough.