What is a NAMI Model B Affiliate?
A NAMI Model B affiliate primarily focuses on implementing NAMI programs and community outreach in their region of service while operating with limited operational responsibilities. Due to limited operational responsibilities, all Model B Affiliates are supervised by their NAMI State Organization and must follow their operating policies and procedures.
An affiliate might choose to be a Model B affiliate if they are a new organization or trying to rebuild their affiliate. While all Model B affiliates operate under their state organization’s policies and procedures, they can still retain their name, logo, and members. If Model B affiliates operation capacity can sustain itself without the aid of the their state organization, the affiliate has the opportunity to transition to a Model A affiliate and become an independent organization from their state organization.
Model A Affiliate vs. Model B Affiliate
Model A Affiliate
- Operates separately of the state organization
- Is an independent 501(c)(3) organization
- Works adjacent to the state organization
- Can implement programs of their choice
Model B Affiliate
- Follows the state organization’s policy and procedures
- Are not an independent 501 (c)(3) organization
- Satellite location offering activities under the state organization
- Programs have to approved by state organization
Why is NAMI SWLA a Model B Affiliate?
NAMI Southwest Louisiana (NAMI SWLA) previously operated as an independent Model A NAMI Affiliate, addressing the mental health needs of Southwest Louisiana. During this time, NAMI SWLA served as a vital resource for Lake Charles and nearby communities. The affiliate provided mental health education through various programs, offered support groups for individuals and families seeking guidance and care, assisted in providing housing for those in need, and organized outreach events to raise awareness about mental health in the region.
In 2020, NAMI Southwest Louisiana faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastation caused by hurricanes Delta and Laura. These Category 4 hurricanes destroyed homes, businesses, and entire communities, forcing many to prioritize rebuilding their lives, including NAMI SWLA’s employees and volunteers. As a result, the organization made the difficult decision to suspend operations while focusing efforts on recovery and rebuilding.
After a four-year hiatus, five former volunteers from NAMI SWLA came together in the summer of 2024 to revitalize the organization. Recognizing the ongoing need for mental health resources in Lake Charles, they decided to transition NAMI Southwest Louisiana from a Model A Affiliate to a Model B Affiliate. This change aimed to rebuild the affiliate’s programs, outreach, and operations with the goal of restoring it to Model A status. Since then, these dedicated volunteers have been working diligently to establish NAMI programs in Lake Charles and are committed to returning the organization to its previous status as a Model A affiliate.
How You can help NAMI SWLA Become a Model A affiliate:
NAMI Southwest Louisiana is striving to regain its status as a Model A affiliate. Your support, along with that of other community members, can help NAMI SWLA achieve its mission. Whether by volunteering, attending NAMI programs, or making a donation, any support you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
