NAMI- Valley of the Sun

NAMI Valley of the Sun is a leading voice in mental health advocacy, education, and support across Maricopa County. As an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), we are part of the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.

At the heart of our work is a simple but powerful belief: no one should have to face mental health challenges alone. Every day, we strive to ensure that individuals living with mental health conditions, and the families who support them, have access to compassionate care, evidence-based education, and a community that understands.

Our organization exists to bridge gaps in the mental health system, reduce stigma, and provide accessible, no-cost resources that empower individuals on their journey toward recovery, resilience, and hope.

Our Mission and Vision

Our mission is to provide education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness while working to build a more informed, compassionate, and inclusive community.

We envision a future where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health, where stigma no longer prevents people from seeking help, and where every individual has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.

We believe that recovery is possible. We believe that connection is essential. And we believe that community changes lives.

A Year of Growth and Impact

The year 2025 marked a period of extraordinary growth and meaningful impact for NAMI Valley of the Sun. As the need for mental health services continued to rise across our region, we responded with intention, innovation, and a deep commitment to serving our community.

From 2024 to 2025, we increased our programs by 28%, significantly expanding access to free support groups, educational courses, and outreach initiatives. This growth reflects not only the increasing demand for mental health services but also our unwavering commitment to meeting people where they are, with empathy, respect, and culturally responsive care.

Through our support groups and educational programs, we served more than 11,800 individuals in 2025. These programs provided safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand the challenges of living with mental health conditions.

In addition to direct programming, our outreach efforts reached an extraordinary 89,034 individuals and family members. Through community events, presentations, partnerships, and resource navigation, we provided vital information and assistance to those seeking guidance, support, and hope.

In total, NAMI Valley of the Sun reached nearly 100,000 individuals in 2025: a milestone that reflects both the scale of need and the power of collective action.

Education That Empowers

Our educational programs empower individuals and families with the knowledge and tools to navigate mental health challenges. Led by trained instructors with lived experience, these courses provide practical skills, increase understanding, and build confidence in seeking and supporting care.

The Power of Support

Our peer-led support groups provide safe, welcoming spaces where individuals and families can share experiences, find understanding, and build connection. Guided by facilitators with lived experience, these groups foster hope, reduce isolation, and remind participants they are not alone.

The Role of Advocacy

We advocate for improved access to care, reduced stigma, and policies that support individuals affected by mental health conditions. By amplifying lived experiences and engaging the community, we work to create a more equitable and compassionate mental health system.

Together, We Move Forward

The story of NAMI Valley of the Sun is one of growth, resilience, and community.

From the nearly 100,000 individuals we reached in 2025 to the countless lives we will touch in the years ahead, our impact is driven by a shared commitment to care, connection, and change.

We are proud of what we have accomplished.
We are energized by what lies ahead.
And we are grateful to everyone who is part of this journey.

Together, we are building a future filled with hope, healing, and belonging.