Tuesday, October 17, 2023 

NAMI Wilmington Chapter 

Public Board Meeting 

Present: Doug Engelman, Virginia Goldrick, Julie Morrow, Chuck Eldridge, Janis Eldridge, Dennis Doll, Sheryl Sparks, Mia Smiraglia, Carol Saraiva, Kimberly Light, Laura Hatvany, Ben Holt, Madison Nordmiller and Emma Tubens. 

Via Zoom: Michelle Hettmann 

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The Board meeting for the NAMI Wilmington Chapter was called to order by Doug Engelman, President at 6:05 pm. A quorum was established with four board members present. 

Old Business: 

A motion was made by Virginia Goldrick and seconded by Julie Morrow to approve the minutes from the September 19, 2023 NAMI Wilmington Public Board Meeting. This motion was unanimously approved. 

New Business: 

Financial ReportJulie Morrow reported on the current status of income and expenditures for the chapter. Julie also had previously sent all the 2023 Walk day numbers, including registration, silent auction, 50/50, donations and membership to the Walk Coordinator. 

Walk Update– Janis Eldridge reported that we had a successful 2023 Walk Day with approximately 250 walkers, along with sixteen sponsors in attendance. We would like to thank all our volunteers and donors for all their support, helping us to raise approximately $16,000. 

Support Programs Update– Chuck Eldridge reported that Kimberly Light will soon be helping with the Support Programs, along with Dennis Doll as Ending the Silence leader. Dennis has been speaking with NC NAMI about in-person training for the program’s young adults and trainer. Sheryl Sparks will be leading a new Peer Support Group beginning in January 2024 located at Recovery Church in Wilmington. More details to follow. Family to Family Education Classes, led by Virginia Goldrick and Laura & Paul Bobotas will be starting on November 8, 2023, every Wednesday from 6-8:30 pm at Harrelson Center. Registration is on the website. Madison Nordmiller from Cape Fear Community College NAMI on Campus is in the process of reviving their chapter. New Hanover High School is also interested in starting an affiliate as well. Chuck reported on the Provider Program, still underway with the following members- Kim Palmer, Carolyn Craddock, Denni and himself.

Communications– Michelle Hettmann gave a presentation on her progress as our Communications Consultant for the past six months.This included her past accomplishments and her future vision for NAMI Wilmington. The Board will need to vote on her six month contract going forward. 

President’s Report- Doug Engelman discussed the planning of a separate meeting (retreat) for Board members to discuss succession planning, new board member nominations, etc. Then also having a separate meeting for all program coordinators and facilitators. Possible dates and details to follow. Doug proceeded to discuss and confirm volunteers for the Suicide Prevention Fair NHHS Sunday, November 5th from 2- 5:00 pm- Ben Holt and Mekhi Evans, and The Healing Place Trick or Treat Event on Sunday, September 29th from 4-6:00 pm- Sheryl Sparks and Emma Tubens.· 

 

The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm. 

The next NAMI Wilmington Public Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at 6:00pm at UNCW Bear Hall. 

Recorded by, 

Janis Eldridge 

Secretary