Training Teleconference - April 11, 2007
Funding Anti-Stigma Efforts
To access an archived recording of the training teleconference and presentation materials please contact the ADS Center at stopstigma@samhsa.hhs.gov or 1-800-540-0320.
Having a great idea for an anti-stigma effort can only take an organization so far. Obtaining funding to implement and initiate anti-stigma efforts can be a far greater obstacle. However, it does not have to be difficult. There are many options for funding sources for anti-stigma efforts like private donations, foundations, or State, local, and even Federal agencies. It is vital that organizations seeking funding be fully aware of available resources so that they can build a successful and fully funded anti-stigma effort.
This training will:
- Present information on the development and implementation of fundraising and special events as a means of funding anti-stigma efforts.
- Provide an overview of two successful anti-stigma fundraising activities that have been implemented.
- Present information on identifying funding sources and accessing existing funding sources at a local, state, and federal level.
Dianne Dorlester, Senior Director, Adult Mental Health Services, Mental Health America (MHA)
Ms. Dorlester has a professional background in nonprofit management and has served as executive director for The Women's Bar Association of the District of Columbia and The Maryland Assisted Living Association. In her current role at MHA, Ms. Dorlester is the director of the National Consumer Supporter Technical Assistance Center, which provides technical assistance to consumer-run nonprofit organizations. She also works within MHA to promote the consumer voice in the association's advocacy, education and programs. Since joining MHA in 2004, Ms. Dorlester has appeared on many TV and radio programs, as well as in print media, to discuss her personal experience with major depression and to educate the public that mental illnesses are real, common and treatable. Ms. Dorlester received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Tulane University in 1989.
Ann Spehar, Vice President of Development, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Ms. Spehar serves as the Vice President of Development at the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). She oversees all fundraising activities as a member of the senior management team. Her primary responsibilities are to plan, implement, strengthen and manage activities and projects aimed at increasing and diversifying philanthropic support of DBSA. Ms. Spehar received her Bachelor's degree from The University of Michigan, and has held the professional certification of Certified Association Executive (CAE) since 1991.
Gwen Foster, Senior Program Officer, The California Endowment
As the staff lead for The Endowment's statewide grant-making in the area of mental health, Ms. Foster is responsible for the development and implementation of foundation-initiated efforts to improve the mental health and well-being of vulnerable populations in low-income communities. She has extensive experience in the field of mental health and in the field of philanthropy including grant making at Zellerbach Family Foundation, and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. Ms. Foster received an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Mills College, and a Master's degree in Social Welfare from UCLA.