Sigma Gamma Rho - NAMI x Divine Nine

Teaming up for Mental Health

In a historic partnership to commemorate their second century of public service, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to increase awareness of mental health challenges, combating stigma, and elevating mental health and wellbeing in the Black community.

Who is Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated?

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated has welcomed more than 100,000 collegiate and professional women from every profession. The sorority has more than 500 chapters in the United States, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Ghana, Germany, South Korea, U.S. Virgin Islands, the United Arab Emirates and most recently Japan.

The sorority’s commitment to service is expressed in its slogan, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” The sorority has a proud history of providing positive and proactive community outreach nationally and internationally. The programs, partnerships, and sponsorships represent Sigma Gamma Rho’s commitment to promoting the greater good in education, service, and leadership development.

Who is NAMI?

The National Alliance on 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. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.

Black adults are 20% more likely to report serious psychological distress than white adults

The suicide rate among Black youth has been increasing faster than any other racial/ethnic group.

Our Partnership

Strengthening Support in Black Communities

Mental health has long been a sensitive and stigmatized topic within Black/African Ancestry communities, yet the need for accessible, culturally tailored mental health services has never been greater. Together, Sigma Gamma Rho and NAMI are embarking on a transformative journey to provide vital resources and equitable mental health services that align with the cultural needs of African Americans and other underrepresented groups, and initiate a transformative journey that builds more accessible pathways to mental health support.

Together in Service

Sisters United for Mental Health

This partnership is more than a collaboration—it’s a call to action. Our transformative partnership serves as a catalyst for change, offering essential resources, training, and steadfast support to all chapters leading the way in promoting individual and community care. Chapters are charged with hosting Sharing Hope Community Conversations, engaging with NAMI Homefront, joining FaithNet efforts to educate chaplains, forming and/or joining a NAMIWalks team, and participating in other mental health events.

Sharing Hope is a three-part community conversation series designed for Black/African Ancestry communities to engage in discussions on mental health and wellness. Guided by trained facilitators and rooted in rich ancestral culture, Sharing Hope utilizes sacred storytelling, and community conversations to reduce stigma and explore local resources.

NAMI SH Facilitator training to launch in early Feb.

Veterans and their loved ones have unique lives full of experiences that may be difficult to navigate. NAMI Homefront is designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI HomeFront class sign-ups will be available mid-March.

With 160 community Walks by NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates from coast to coast, NAMIWalks is a beautiful celebration of each of us — individuals with mental illness, their family, their loved ones, their community. 

Prepare to join a Spring 2025 Walk or to Walk Your Way!

NAMI FaithNet empowers pastors and faith leaders with the tools and education needed to help navigate mental health challenges within their communities and foster connection between mental health and healthcare.

NAMI FaithNet Chaplain training to launch late February.

Our Goal: To equip members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated with the skills and confidence to provide essential resources in the communities they serve and make a profound impact on mental wellness. More information will be shared via Sorority correspondence or eblasts.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Our Commitment

“By partnering with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., we aim to strengthen our connection with more people in Black/African American communities, break down barriers, and empower individuals and families to seek help early without shame or fear of judgment.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring equitable access to mental health services. Our continued collaboration with Divine Nine organizations like Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., allows us to leverage their lifelong commitment and strong presence in the Black community to create lasting impact.”

– Daniel H. Gillison Jr., NAMI CEO

“This collaboration is a meaningful step toward ensuring that mental health care is accessible, relevant, and compassionate for our communities. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., is committed to breaking the stigma of mental health struggles and creating spaces where healing and open dialogue can thrive.”

– Marica T. Harris, International Grand Basileus, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

A Shared Vision for the Future

As we begin this impactful collaboration, we invite all members and chapters to join a movement dedicated to transforming mental health within the Black community. Our partnership reflects a steadfast commitment to building a future where everyone feels acknowledged, valued, and supported on their path to wellbeing.