A team of University of Iowa (UI) researchers has received a $50,000 grant from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to evaluate effective engagement with diverse populations among NAMI affiliates. The team will also develop a qualitative evaluation report, including actionable guidance, for affiliates seeking to improve their service to diverse populations.

The UI project team is directed by Ebonee Johnson, assistant professor of community and behavioral health, and includes Amber Hawkins and Makayla Morales, research associates in community and behavioral health; Carrie Wilbert, a doctoral student in counselor education; five undergraduate researchers; and one graphic design student. Leah Wentworth, national director of research and evaluation at NAMI, will work collaboratively with the UI team. 

The three-month project will run through the fall of 2024.

“Our team will conduct virtual focus groups and community conversations with organizations across the nation that have received NAMI funding to address mental health in their communities,” Johnson says.  “We will determine best practices and provide guidance for NAMI to extend their work with diverse populations.”

The University of Iowa is among the top public research institutions in the nation—offering a world-class education in over 200 areas of study to more than 31,000 students. From the most prestigious creative writing program in the United States, to a nationally recognized academic medical center, our balanced excellence in the arts and sciences encourages innovation and exploration across the disciplines.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI is an alliance of more than 600 local affiliates who work in communities around the U.S. to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need. The portfolio of work in communities includes presentations, educational programming, support groups, advocacy training, outreach, and fundraising.