NAMI's Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. Honored as a Mental Health Pioneer

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has announced that its CEO, Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., has been recognized with the esteemed Not Alone Pioneer Award by the Inspiring Children Foundation. This honor was bestowed upon him during the inaugural Not Alone Awards at a summit aimed at tackling mental health issues.

Gillison has been a transformative figure in the mental health landscape, embodying what it means to redefine possibilities in research, advocacy, and healing. Under his leadership, NAMI has initiated several groundbreaking programs, enhancing the accessibility of mental health resources. One notable achievement was the establishment of NAMI's first-ever youth advisory group, representing the voices of younger individuals in mental health dialogues. Furthermore, he played an instrumental role in launching a specialized HelpLine tailored for teenagers and young adults, a pivotal resource for those facing mental health challenges.

In a heartfelt response to receiving the award, Gillison expressed his gratitude, stating, "I'm deeply honored by this recognition, because it reflects who NAMI is — a community built on compassion, connection, and care. For nearly 50 years, we’ve helped people see that they're not alone, and that together, healing and hope are possible." His words resonate strongly with the mission of NAMI, which is to ensure that no one is left to battle mental health challenges in solitude.

The Not Alone Awards, powered by the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Foundation, were broadcast live via iHeartRadio's YouTube Channel during a summit hosted in Las Vegas. This summit was not simply an awards ceremony; it was a crucial gathering of experts, innovators, and thought leaders dedicated to advancing the mental health conversation. Conversations focused on essential topics such as clinical innovation, technology's role in mental health, and the need for advocacy in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Co-founders of the Inspiring Children Foundation, Jewel and Ryan Wolfington, highlighted Gillison's dedication, stating, "Daniel Gillison and NAMI have been tireless champions for those navigating mental health challenges, offering compassion, education, and lifesaving support on a national scale." They emphasized NAMI’s role as a key player in mental health advocacy, providing essential resources and fostering a community of support during challenging times.

Beyond receiving the accolade, Gillison participated in a panel discussion focused on the future of mental health advocacy, alongside notable figures such as Jewel and Jaymes Black, CEO of the Trevor Project. This diverse assembly underscored the collaborative nature of the event, highlighting the importance of shared knowledge and experiences in advocating for mental health.

This year's summit and the awards ceremony mark a significant step in progressing initiatives aimed at creating a more compassionate and interconnected mental health care system through a blend of science and storytelling, as well as the critical experiences of those who have lived through mental health challenges.

About NAMI

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) stands as the nation's largest grassroots organization devoted to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Its commitment is reflected in the development of innovative programs and support networks that promote recovery and reduce stigma in mental health.

For further engagement, follow NAMI on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Learn more about their initiatives and involvement in mental health advocacy at their official website.

About Inspiring Children and Not Alone Summit

Inspiring Children Foundation, led by Jewel, has over 25 years of experience in transforming the lives of at-risk youth facing mental health challenges. Their holistic approach has successfully helped countless youths achieve educational and personal success. The Not Alone Summit, an invitation-only event, seeks to unite various stakeholders in meaningful discussions on emotional and mental health advancements, amplifying the need for comprehensive care and support.