Community Health Education:
Independence Center has continued to work with the Lake County National Alliance for the Mentally Ill for many years to educate the community about mental illness. Staff members serve on the Board of Directors for NAMI and often are presenters at monthly educational meetings. Independence Center uses its fundraising and community activities to educate residents of Lake County about mental illness and provide an entrance to the mental health system. Staff members have addressed school groups, Churches, Chambers, Service clubs, and local companies about services that families and individuals could access. Nursing students from the College of Lake County, Police departments, members of church groups and healthcare providers have all been educated about the Center, its services, mental illness, and the needs of our members in the community.
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
This holistic group approaches overall wellness by utilizing various resources including Mary Ellen Copeland's Wellness Recovery Action Plan to help members develop.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
Independence Center has two certified Mental Health First Aid Trainers and offers a complimentary MHFA certification course quarterly, as well as opportunities to be trained in the surrounding community should collaborators wish to hold a dedicated training. Courses are 8-hours and prepare attendees to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis by teaching how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses.