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July 2026 Newsletter
Brighter Days Start with Support
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As summer continues, we're excited to share new ways to stay connected, support one another, and build community. This month we're honoring National Minority Mental Health Month, highlighting our new virtual Peer Support Group option, sharing valuable crisis resources from NAMI Wisconsin along with some other exciting updates, and looking back at some wonderful moments from recent events.
Thank you for being part of our NAMI Fond du Lac community.
| National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month | | |
July is National Minority Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by racial and ethnic minority communities and to promote equitable access to care and support.
Did You Know?
- Minority communities often face greater barriers to accessing mental health services.
- Cultural understanding and representation can improve mental health outcomes.
- Mental health affects everyone, and support should be available to everyone.
Factors such as stigma, cultural barriers, discrimination, language differences, and limited access to culturally responsive care can make it more difficult for individuals from underserved communities to seek and receive mental health support.
At NAMI Fond du Lac, we believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, quality mental health care and a community where they feel seen, heard, and supported.
This month, we encourage everyone to learn more, listen to diverse perspectives, and help create a community where mental health support is accessible to all.
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Color Your Emotion
Guided Painting Class
Emotions don't always come with words, but creativity can help us express what we're feeling.
Join us for our July Togetherness Event, a guided painting experience where participants will explore emotions through color and art in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.
No artistic experience is necessary—just come as you are.
All ages welcome!
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Saturday, July 11th at 10:00AM
Allegory Studio
21 N Portland St, Fond du Lac
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Our monthly Togetherness Events are designed to create safe, welcoming spaces where people can:
- Build social connection
- Engage in positive activities
- Learn about mental health in approachable ways
- Connect with local resources
Because no one should have to navigate mental health alone.
If you're interested in partnering with us for a future Togetherness Event, please reach out to Kim, our Grant & Fundraising Coordinator, at kimmiller@namifonddulac.org
| | New Virtual Peer Support Group Option | | | | |
We're excited to announce that NAMI Fond du Lac County's Peer Support Group now offers a virtual Zoom option.
This free support group provides a safe, confidential space for adults living with mental health conditions to connect with others who understand their experiences. Whether transportation, distance, scheduling, or comfort level has made attending in person difficult, our virtual option allows more people to access peer support from wherever they are because everyone deserves support.
Participants can choose the option that works best for them and receive the same compassionate, peer-led support that NAMI groups are known for.
The virtual group will be held the third Tuesday of each month from
6:00pm-7:30pm
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When a mental health crisis happens, knowing what to do can make all the difference. The new Crisis Guide from NAMI Wisconsin provides clear, compassionate information to help individuals, families, and caregivers navigate difficult moments with confidence.
Download, save, and share your free copy today!
We encourage everyone to review this resource before a crisis occurs.
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Save the Date:
Step Up to Prevent Suicide 2026
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Mark your calendars! NAMI Fond du Lac County's annual Step Up to Prevent Suicide campaign returns this September.
This virtual community awareness and fundraising event encourages participants to move their bodies, support mental health, and help prevent suicide in our community. Walk, run, bike, hike, or choose any activity that helps you stay active while raising awareness and critical funds for NAMI's free programs and services.
📅 Registration Opens: July 15, 2026
📅 Registration Closes: August 15, 2026
👟 Campaign Dates: September 1–28, 2026
Whether you participate as an individual or create a team with friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors, every step helps make a difference.
Start thinking about who you'll invite to join your team—we can't wait to Step Up with you this September!
| Meet Our New Board President | |
We are excited to welcome Kristina Meilahn as the new President of NAMI Fond du Lac County's Board of Directors.
Kristina has proudly served on the NAMI Fond du Lac Board of Directors for more than 15 years and is honored to serve as the organization's new Board President. Kristina serves as a Detective with the City of Fond du Lac Police Department. She brings extensive experience to NAMI Fond du Lac through her role as a detective and previous roles as a school resource officer and patrol officer. Kristina's passion for mental health and helping others has been a driving force throughout her career and volunteer service.
Kristina's leadership, passion for mental health advocacy, and commitment to our community will help guide NAMI Fond du Lac County as we continue expanding support, education, and awareness throughout the county.
We are grateful for her willingness to serve and look forward to the impact she will make in this role.
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June was filled with opportunities to connect, engage, and grow. Here's a snapshot of some of the ways we've been supporting mental health and strengthening community connections throughout Fond du Lac County.
Guided Meditation Nature Walk Togetherness Event
Our June Togetherness Event was scheduled to bring community members together for a guided meditation and peaceful walk through Hobbs Woods. Unfortunately, severe weather and tornado warnings made it necessary to cancel the event to keep everyone safe.
While we were disappointed that we couldn't gather, we're grateful for the community's understanding and remain committed to creating opportunities for connection, mindfulness, and support. We look forward to seeing everyone at future Togetherness Events!
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Volunteer & Facilitator Recruitment
We're currently recruiting volunteer facilitators for several NAMI Signature Programs and support groups. Facilitators are the heart of our mission, helping provide free education, support, and hope to individuals and families throughout Fond du Lac County.
Whether you're interested in leading a support group, sharing your lived experience through a presentation, or helping us expand programming for special populations, we'd love to hear from you.
Together, we can reach more people who need support.
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Celebrating Community at Local Events
This month, NAMI Fond du Lac County was proud to connect with community members at several local events, including Ebony Vision's Juneteenth Celebration and Fond du Lac's Pride Picnic.
These events provide valuable opportunities to share mental health resources, reduce stigma, and remind people that support is available. We're grateful to be part of a community that values inclusion, belonging, and wellness for all.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table, shared a conversation, or learned more about NAMI's programs and services.
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Why It Matters
Every event, conversation, and volunteer opportunity helps build a more connected and supportive community. Whether we're creating spaces for people to connect, sharing mental health resources, or expanding our programs through volunteer leadership, each effort moves us closer to a future where no one has to face mental health challenges alone. Thank you for being part of that mission.
| Mental Health Tip of the Month |
Reach Out Before You Need To
Just like we maintain our physical health through regular habits, we can strengthen our mental health by nurturing our support system before we're struggling.
This month, challenge yourself to:
- Call or text a friend you've been meaning to reconnect with
- Invite someone for a walk, coffee, or lunch
- Attend a support group or community event
- Check in with someone who may be having a difficult time
Small moments of connection can reduce feelings of isolation, improve resilience, and remind us that we don't have to face life's challenges alone.
Remember: Support isn't just for times of crisis—it's something we all need to thrive.
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We’re continuing to grow our community presence through events, educational content, and outreach efforts throughout Fond du Lac County.
Here’s how you can support our mission:
🌐 Visit our recently revamped website: namifonddulac.org
📱 Follow us on social media for updates and events
💬 Share our events with others who may benefit
💌 Invite others to attend Togetherness Events
🤝 Volunteer with us
👥 Become a member
💵 Consider making a donation to support local mental health programming
Every conversation, event, and connection helps reduce stigma and build a stronger, more supportive community.
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