Thursday, August 9, 2012

NAMI National - New Policies

NAMI National recently sent me the new NAMI Signature Program Operating Policies for the following programs:  Basics, Connection, Family-to-Family, Family Support Group, In Our Own Voice, Parents and Teachers as Allies, Peer-to-Peer, and Provider Education.  A conference call was also held.  You can go to the NAMI National website (NAMI.org) to view them. 
 http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=Education_Training_and_Peer_Support_Center

One thing that surprised me was that NAMI now allows a more flexible policy with regards to the Family to Family class schedule.  (Note pg. 5)  During the call I was assured that Joyce Burland also approved this change.

While National states that one can take the F2F training without having taken the class, there are multiple good reasons for prospective trainees to take the 12 week course first, so we highly recommend for them to do so.

One other change is the suggestion that trainers now be paid if the state or affiliate can afford to do so.  We will endeavor to follow this guideline as budget allows.  I think we all realize how much dedication and effort is involved in preparing and leading a training.  Nevertheless, it's difficult to budget for hotels, curriculum, etc. also.  We'll do our best, as always.

If you desire to translate the curriculum you need to let National know.  I would like to know also so I can stay in the loop.  If you have a translation they may not be aware of, please contact tbrister@nami.org

All manual updates will come out in April 2013 this year.  No new updates until then.
  
Lastly, most of you probably read in the Weekly Report about Jonee's departure.  For the time being, this may result in a delay in filling requests.  Thank you for your patience.
 
Trainings will be announced the beginning of next week.