I came to NAMI after I dealt with my child's onset of mental illness. It was a harrowing experience during which I felt helpless and alone. When I found support through NAMI -- its FREE courses for family members, as well as support at the NAMI office -- it changed my life. I can't say enough about the caring and educated people I have met through this organization. I became a volunteer so that I could help others -- especially families with adolescents -- so they wouldn't have to go through what I did. Education is power -- and that's what NAMI does best!