September 2018
Dear NAMI Friends and Family,
I have had the incredible honor and privilege of serving as the Executive Director at NAMI Seattle for the last four and a half years. Now, it’s time to pass the torch to the next leader. We will begin our Executive search immediately, and as of January 2019, I will step down as the Executive Director of this wonderful organization.
I love NAMI’s mission and all the people who make up NAMI Seattle – our staff, board, volunteers, community members. Every time I hear how Family-to-Family or a support group gave someone a lifeline just when they needed it most, my heart is full. It is truly important work that we do here, and I have felt lucky to be part of it. As many of you know, or have experienced yourself, mental health is a passion for lots of us who are bumbling along on our own mental health journey. I have spent the last eight years working in the mental health field, and for me, it’s time to take a break from a mission so dear and personal to me.
Since 2014, we’ve made great strides, including:
Articulating our values of Kindness, Community, Empowerment, and Integrity, so that how we do our mission work is just as important as the mission itself.
Expanding our programs to include Ending the Silence, Family & Friends, Smarts for Advocacy, and the new Peer-to-Peer curriculum.
Supporting the creation and expansion of clubhouses in our city, to help people on the road to recovery with social connections, employment opportunities, and a feeling of belonging and purpose.
Doubling our staff, and investing in benefits and professional development opportunities so we can provide high-quality programs and build strong relationships.
Developing a strategic plan and Board of Directors that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion within NAMI and the mental health field, so we can make sure that NAMI Seattle is truly serving folks of all identities who are impacted by mental health conditions.
I know there’s more in store for NAMI Seattle, and I’m excited to see where we go next. I say we, because even after I have stepped down as staff, I will always feel deeply connected to NAMI’s work, and I will always root for our success.
To that end, we are starting the hiring process for NAMI Seattle’s next Executive Director. If you are interested or would like to share the job listing with your own contacts, please feel free to do so. The job description can be found on our website here.
Thank you so much for your support, energy, and shared passion for NAMI’s mission over the last four and a half years. Your stories of perseverance, resilience, and recovery inspire me every day.
With gratitude,
Ashley
P.S. I’ll be decked out in my Gatsby-inspired best for our 40th Anniversary Celebration on New Year’s Eve, and I would be delighted to celebrate what’s next with you in person. It’s going to be quite the party. I hope you’ll join me in ringing in the new year, and kicking off a new chapter for NAMI Seattle!