| NAMI New Hampshire
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We extend hearty congratulations to Sharon Stout, Alexa Felix, and Lauren Ariano, who were all recently recognized for their impact as NAMI New Hampshire volunteers at the 2024 Spirit of NH Awards Event hosted by Volunteer NH. Held annually, this event “recognizes those who go above and beyond the call to serve throughout the Granite State, shining a spotlight on the often unsung heroes among us in front of an audience of their families, friends, colleagues, and the greater community.” We are so proud of this amazing trio! As we celebrate their recognition, we reflect on the wonderful accomplishments that brought them here.
Sharon has volunteered with NAMI NH for nearly fifteen years, serving as the leader of the NAMI Monadnock affiliate, and as a long-time NAMI NH family support group facilitator and NAMI Family-to-Family teacher. She is a tireless advocate who is passionate about fighting the stigma surrounding mental illness and still has fresh ideas to spread awareness in her community.
Alexa is a go-getter who can often be found volunteering at NAMI NH events. She primarily serves as a SurvivorVoices speaker, sharing her story of losing her father to suicide in 2020 and how she has channeled her loss into advocacy work. She recently participated on a panel about suicide, stigma, and hope, and partnered on a NAMI NH blog on men’s mental health.
Lauren is a young adult In Our Own Voice presenter and was involved in the creation of the very first NAMI on Campus chapter in NH at the University of New Hampshire. After her college graduation, she became a NAMI Connection support group facilitator, helping to lead one of our virtual support groups.
As these three honorees took the stage, they all shared in their speeches that they are grateful for the opportunities NAMI NH has given them. However, it is we who are deeply grateful for their dedication to improving the lives of all people affected by mental illness and suicide. It is only through the support of our over two hundred volunteers that we are able to do our work and touch the lives of over 50,000 Granite Staters each year. To Sharon, Alexa, Lauren, and all NAMI NH volunteers: Hope truly starts with you!
Interested in joining us? To learn more about volunteering with NAMI NH, check out our Volunteer page, which includes our volunteer application. We hope to hear from you!