From McHenry County:
22nd Judicial Circuit Partners with NAMI of McHenry County to Host Mobile Peer
Support Van
WOODSTOCK, IL — The 22nd Judicial Circuit of McHenry County is proud to announce a new collaborative initiative with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of McHenry County, bringing the NAMI Mobile Peer Support Van to the Michael J. Sullivan Judicial Center in Woodstock, Illinois.
The van will be available in the west parking lot of the Judicial Center on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
“All of us in the 22nd Judicial Circuit are excited about this partnership. Court involved individuals suffering from a mental health condition often have no idea where to go or who to turn to.
“Through this initiative, NAMI, an organization which supports those affected by mental health conditions
through a variety of avenues, including support groups, will now be literally across the parking lot and ready to serve,” said Chief Judge Michael W. Feetterer.
This partnership is part of the Court’s continuing commitment to fostering compassionate, accessible, and community-integrated services for individuals in the justice system who are affected by mental illness.
By working alongside dedicated nonprofit organizations like NAMI, the 22nd Judicial Circuit strengthens the support network available to participants in the court system who may benefit from peer engagement, recovery education, and mental health resources.
The NAMI Mobile Peer Support Van provides a safe, welcoming space where individuals can access direct support from trained peer specialists who have lived experience with mental illness.
These specialists offer encouragement, empathy, and practical guidance, while also providing information about local mental health services, crisis response systems, and ongoing support groups.
The mobile unit serves as an innovative approach to reduce stigma, promote mental wellness, and meet people where they are—in both a physical and emotional sense.
Kelly Scimeca, Director of the Office of Special Projects which oversees the
- Drug Court,
- Mental Health Court and
- DUI Court Programs
stated,
“NAMI works relentlessly to reduce stigma and promote understanding of severe mental illness.
“They support the community by offering free, evidence-based groups for individuals and families.”
This event also highlights the broader commitment of the 22nd Judicial Circuit to community-based solutions.
With specialized court programs and a strong emphasis on behavioral health collaboration, the Court is continually seeking to expand the scope of services available to court-involved individuals.
Partnering with organizations like NAMI not only provides access to critical mental health resources but reinforces a shared vision: building a safer, healthier, and more equitable justice system for all.
“The judicial system is increasingly aware that individuals struggling with mental health conditions need more than legal resolutions, they need human connection and meaningful support,” said Dan Wallis, Trial Court Administrator.
“By partnering with NAMI, we are creating an opportunity for people to engage with someone who understands their challenges, can provide support, and avenues for community resources.
“All of which supports long-term recovery and improved outcomes.”
For more information about NAMI of McHenry County and its Mobile Peer Support Program, please visit www.namimchenrycounty.org.
