Student Contributor -K. VanHorn
The NFFCMH provides advocacy for the rights of children and families with behavioral, emotional and mental health challenges. They help families obtain supports and services related to mental, behavioral, and emotional health through a family and youth-driven approach. They also provide leadership and technical assistance to a network of organizations.
The NFFCMH is involved in advocacy for families and children, national policy making, and giving families a voice in the services that are provided. NFFCMH advocates on policy making, and policy issues that impact children’s mental health on both the local and national level. They host local and state chapters that allows community members to become a part of this national network that is bettering life for children and families. These chapters are able to use resources from partner organizations and parent support providers. The chapters are also able to get assistance with advocacy for families and legislative efforts. NFFCMH also provides certification of parent and support partners. These are people that are trained and certified to help children and families that would need services.
There are many ways to partner with this organization from awareness to donations. Students would be able to do a coin drive or walk-a-thon to raise money for this organization. Students could also participate in Children’s mental health awareness week. This organization provides many videos and activities for all ages that teach them about mental health and its importance. Students could take what they learn from these videos and activities to create posters and raise awareness around their school and community.
