When August saw how mental health challenges impacted his community, he took action. He started by creating a website called IDD Program Finder, a place where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families, and caregivers find day programs and supportive employment opportunities. Wanting to know more about mental health challenges to improve his impact, August reached out to NAMI-NYC. “NAMI-NYC provides mental health education in a way that was practical and welcoming,” he shared.  

August started volunteering as a member of the NAMI-NYC Youth Council. August was able to assist in creating NAMI-NYC’s first youth mental health support group just for teens called Connection Corner. August was able to help name the support group, identify the mental health needs of NYC teens, and create social content to raise awareness.   

“Being a part of NAMI-NYC’s Youth Council really helped me to broaden my views regarding mental health and grow a clear perspective on mental health challenges.” He was able to learn that listening to others share their experience with mental health is an important part of mental health advocacy. “Listening allows others to know it’s okay to talk about mental health. And it helps you to learn about mental health too.” 

“NAMI-NYC has connected me with people my age who have similar interests and values, which has been motivating for me as a mental health advocate.” August has found a new confidence in how he can contribute in his own way to making mental health care and treatment more accessible.   

Learn more about NAMI-NYC’s youth programs here.