Who We Are
NAMI Northern Lakes is a group of Northwoods volunteers who are dedicated to providing support, education and advocacy to people with mental health conditions in Oneida, Vilas and Forest counties.
NAMI Northern Lakes was founded in 2011 by a group of Northwoods residents responding to a call-to-action by NAMI Northern Lakes Founder Audrey Kissinger who had two adult sons with serious and persistent mental illness. Audrey first became involved with NAMI in southeast Wisconsin, then when she moved home to the Northwoods she set out to start a chapter in Rhinelander.
NAMI Northern Lakes offers a variety of programs and services, including a drop-in center known as "The Center," peer and family support groups, education and outreach programs, and advocacy efforts for better mental health care. We rely on community support in order to provide services that fill the gaps of the mental health system. All NAMI Northern Lakes programming is free. To learn more about our support groups and educational offerings, visit our support and education pages.
If you are interested in making a tax-deductible donation to NAMI Northern Lakes, click "donate now" at the top of our webpage.
NAMI Northern Lakes Staff
Our Board of Directors
Jenny Hoffhein
President
Bob Thom
Treasurer
Bob Londo
Vice President
Lisa Miller
.
Dillon Ford
Donna Shimeck
Secretary
Mick Fiocchi
.
Mel Houg
Our Location
NAMI Northern Lakes and our drop-in center is located in the lower level of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rhinelander.
*NAMI Northern Lakes and all of NAMI is secular and non-partisan.
Office and Center Hours
NAMI Northern Lakes & The Center is closed on all federal holidays, and our inclement weather policy aligns with the School District of Rhinelander-if schools are closed, NAMI Northern Lakes and The Center is closed.
Make a Difference with NAMI Northern Lakes!
Are you passionate about mental health and eager to make a meaningful impact in our community? NAMI Northern Lakes invites you to join our mission in supporting individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Apply for a Board of Director Position
As a member of our Board of Directors, you'll play a crucial role in shaping the future of mental health advocacy and support in our region. We are seeking dedicated individuals who are ready to lead, innovate, and inspire. Your strategic vision and commitment can help us drive change and expand our reach. You can download the application using the button below or fill it out online here.
If you choose to download the application, it can be dropped off during The Center hours, scanned and emailed to [email protected], or mailed to 235 N Stevens Street, Rhinelander.
Become a Volunteer
If you're looking for a more hands-on way to contribute, consider becoming a volunteer. Whether you have a few hours a week or can dedicate more time, your efforts can make a significant difference. From event support to training to present or facilitate groups, there are numerous ways to get involved locally.
Join us at NAMI Northern Lakes and be part of a compassionate team dedicated to building better lives for everyone affected by mental illness. Together, we can make a difference in our community.