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September is a time to honor the strength and resilience of individuals, families, and communities living with mental health or substance use challenges. According to SAMHSA, more than 20 million Americans are in recovery, illustrating that healing is within reach for many.
NCFamU honors this journey by offering peer support, guidance, and connection to resources that foster healing and hope. Below are resources from SAMHSA to help you or someone you know in their journey:
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2025 Recovery Month Toolkit - A one-stop collection of shareable materials—downloadable graphics, social media content, and awareness messaging designed for partners and communities to spark conversations and spread the message that recovery is possible.
- SAMHSA’s 24/7 National Helpline (English/Spanish): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - A confidential, free, and accessible line offering treatment referrals and information for anyone facing mental health or substance misuse challenges.
| | Photo provided by SAMHSA.gov via RecoverMe Campaign |
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RecoverMe Campaign - A peer-driven campaign with affirming tools and storytelling resources for recovery journeys in both English and Spanish.
Together, we can break down stigma, amplify stories of recovery, and remind our communities that every step toward healing matters.
| | In September, we recognize Suicide Prevention, which serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, connection, and awareness in preventing suicide. The statistics are sobering: in 2023, over 49,000 Americans died by suicide, making it one of the leading causes of death in the United States (CDC). | | Photo Provided by CDC.gov. Provisional data shown above are based on death certificate data received, but not yet fully reviewed, by CDC's National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Provisional data provide an early estimate of deaths before the release of final data. | | |
If you or someone you know is in crisis, NAMI provides several resources you can access or share:
- Crisis support: Call or text 988, or visit 988Lifeline.org for free, 24/7 crisis counseling and emotional support.
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Suicide Prevention Toolkit: Download NAMI’s Crisis & Prevention materials for tips, awareness messaging, and guidance on starting conversations
- NAMI HelpLine: Access peer support, information, and referrals Monday to Friday at 800-950-6264, or text "NAMI" to 62640
Stigma, isolation, and silence feed despair, yet connection and empathy can light a path forward. Even a brief check-in or a kind gesture can be a lifeline. Together, we can bring hope into the conversation and foster healing.
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage | |
From September 15th to October 15th, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. With more than 62 million Hispanic Americans in the U.S. (U.S. Census Bureau), these communities enrich every aspect of our society, from culture and education to leadership and innovation.
At NCFamU, we honor Hispanic voices by ensuring that families have access to culturally responsive mental health support and resources. Research shows that Hispanic individuals are 50% less likely than their white peers to receive mental health treatment (NAMI), highlighting the importance of building equitable systems of care. This month, we celebrate contributions while recommitting to the work of breaking down barriers to support.
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This back-to-school season, NCFamU was able to support over 90 children by providing essential school supplies to help them start the year with confidence and dignity. Many of these children face challenges such as parental incarceration, substance use, or absence, and having the right tools in hand makes a meaningful difference in their academic success and emotional well-being.
We are especially grateful to the Bernhardt Furniture Company of Lenoir, NC, whose generous support helped make this initiative possible. With their partnership, we were able to extend care, encouragement, and hope to families in our community.
| | Together, we are proving that when communities come together, children can step into the classroom ready to learn, grow, and thrive. | | |
Every story has the power to inspire. At NCFamU, we believe that sharing experiences of challenge, resilience, and hope can uplift others and strengthen our community. We also welcome guest speakers whose knowledge, expertise, or lived experience can help educate and empower the families and youth we serve. Together, these voices create meaningful connections, spark healing, and foster lasting change.
We invite you to share your testimony with us. Submissions may be featured in our newsletter, on our website, across social media, or even as part of a future monthly webinar.
- Become a Guest Speaker – Want to share your story live during one of our monthly webinars? Submit your interest here: Guest Speaker Form
- Be Featured in Our Newsletter/Website/Social Media – Share your written story to inspire others across our platforms: Feature Form
Together, we can create a space where lived experiences fuel connection, healing, and change.
| | NCFamU is excited to bring together young people through our engaging youth group meetings. These events provide a supportive space for youth to connect, share experiences, and develop skills for positive mental health. From our younger group to teens, these meetings are designed to encourage open conversation, build confidence, and create a sense of community. Together, we are empowering our youth to thrive and grow. | | We’re busy planning our next community events! Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to connect, learn, and engage with NCFamU. | |
Monthly Webinar Series
Be sure to register for our Monthly Webinar Series! Each month, we dive into a variety of important topics focused on education and personal growth, with a special emphasis on holistic health. From mental and emotional wellness to physical health and nutrition, our expert guest speakers provide valuable insights that you can apply to your everyday life.
| | | If you or your family need support, guidance, or just someone to talk to, don't hesitate to reach out - NCFamU is here to help! | | We are Always Looking to Expand our Resource Network | | | Join us in making a difference - explore opportunities to collaborate, volunteer, or donate to NCFamU today! | | | | | |
