THE WILLIAM ALBRECHT
MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION AWARD 2011

Please note that application forms and guidelines are being revised to simplify entry for 2011.  The following guidelines are what were used for 2010.

NAMI-Yolo  has established an annual award to honor educators who use the NAMI-Yolo Sunflower Art Competition as an opportunity to educate students about mental health issues

To qualify for the award, applicants must be an educator whose students have entered the 2011 NAMI-Yolo Sunflower Art Competition. Entries can be individual (each student doing an individual artwork) or a group project (students working together on a single artwork). Part of the project's goals should be to educate students about mental health issues.

The award, which is funded by an annual raffle which raised $400 for this year’s award, was established in memory of William Albrecht, a young man who struggled with bipolar disorder and whose life was cut short, but who was inspired by a few exceptional teachers to excel in music, art and writing. NAMI-Yolo wishes to recognize those insightful educators who go beyond the prescribed academic curriculum to foster a culture of inclusion and tolerance, eliminating stigma and allowing all students to blossom in their classrooms.

Click here for Application Form and Guidelines

Submit applications for the Mental Health Education Award along with class artwork at the Davis Art Center; 1919 F. St, in Davis either Thursday, May 26th or Friday, May 27th between 2pm-7pm.

This year's award will be presented at the Sunflower Art Reception, Friday June 10th, 2011 at the Davis Art Center.

For more information or to have entry forms mailed to you. phone the NAMI Helpline at 530-756-8181.

NAMI-Yolo's hope is that as students become better educated about mental health, there will be a reduction in the myths, misconceptions and prejudices that result in the stigmatization of mental illness. Mental health education can lead to improved recognition, earlier treatment and better outcomes for people who develop a mental illness and for greater understanding and compassion