A new partnership between NAMI Idaho (the state organization for the National Alliance on Mental Illness) and the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health is bringing additional access to NAMI programs and support to three of Idaho’s larger cities.

The Foundation is providing NAMI Idaho with funding to build community-based NAMI affiliates in Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls.

“I’ve had people approach me from those communities and they’re ready,” said Beth Markley, Executive Director of NAMI Idaho. “We’re focusing on getting local program leaders trained. The next step is to establish community steering committees, which will give us insight into local needs.”

The effort to build local mental health support services is crucial, Markley says. Idaho currently ranks 48^th in the nation for mental health resources, and all 44 counties in the Gem State are federally designated mental health provider shortage areas. Finding and accessing care is difficult for people living with mental illness.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Nationally, there are more than 650 NAMI state organizations and affiliates, including five affiliates and one state organization in Idaho.

NAMI community-based affiliates provide education programs and groups specific to local needs. Programs can be in-person or virtual, whatever the affiliates deem appropriate for the area. Groups and classes for supporting individuals and families are led by volunteers with lived experience. Each volunteer is trained and supported by the state organization.

For the Foundation, supporting NAMI Idaho aligns with its current work supporting youth well-being across the state.

“What I am so excited about for us as a health foundation is being able to help these grassroots efforts in the three communities,” Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health Senior Program Officer Jackie Yarbrough said. “It’s so important for families to have somewhere they can go to feel supported and have connection.”

As difficult as it can seem to improve things for people living with mental illness, Markley says helping people connect with others in similar circumstances reduces loneliness and provides a sense of belonging and a reason for hope, reducing the stigma that keeps people from reaching out for help.

NAMI groups and educational programs for people with mental illness and those who support them are provided confidentially and at no cost. The new affiliates in Lewiston, Pocatello and Twin Falls are working to become fully established in 2026.

“I believe the NAMI affiliates help people find support,” Yarbrough said. “Families will know they’re not alone. Individuals will have an opportunity for more connection within those three communities. You can’t underestimate the importance of having a sense of belonging in a community; it’s a cornerstone in overall well-being.”

For information about supporting local NAMI affiliate development or for information about support groups, classes, or other NAMI services, visit namiidaho.org or email info@namiidaho.org.