Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month

This edition of Wise Giving Wednesday recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month. Over the past few weeks, the news contained stories about shooting incidents, many of which were horrendous reactions to innocent activities. It would not be surprising to learn that some of us experience increased stress and anxiety from hearing about these circumstances. Those who are having stress symptoms should seek help and be open with their primary physician about the potential need for professional assistance, if warranted.

For those seeking BBB Accredited Charities (i.e., organizations that meet the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability) that address mental health issues, here are some to consider. Keep in mind that as organizations address these issues in different ways, we encourage potential donors to review the program descriptions appearing on their websites.

Brain & Behavior Research Foundation (aka NARSAD) operates a grant program that funds scientific research into the causes, treatments, cures and prevention of chronic and severe mental illnesses including depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Mental Health America works to promote mental health as a part of overall wellness. Mental wellness includes prevention services, early identification and intervention, and integrated care services through advocacy, education, and research. The organization states that it collaborates with its 169 affiliates, supporters, and policymakers to advance federal legislation, regulations, and agency activities that promote its policy statements.

NAMI seeks to build better lives for Americans affected by mental illness through advocacy, awareness, education, and support. The organization's trained volunteers oversee free peer-led education programs, skills training, and support sessions to community members.

Also, there are a number of veterans and military service organizations that address mental health issues. Some of the veterans’ groups, such as Wounded Warrior Project address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

If you or someone you know is at risk for suicide, seek help immediately. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org which is funded by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

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Heart of Giving Podcast

For this week’s Heart of Giving Podcast, BBB WGA offers Part I of a conversation with Mari Kuraishi, the President of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, a private foundation located in Jacksonville, Florida. Mari Kuraishi leads the Fund's efforts to create communities of belonging by fostering inclusive growth and reducing structural and systemic barriers to resources and opportunity.

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We are always working with charities to publish or update reports for donors. Visit Give.org or local BBBs to check out any charity before giving. Our recently evaluated charities include:

• Children International
• Girl Scouts of the USA
• National Geographic Society

Finally, remember to let us know by going to give.org/charity-inquiry if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.