More FAQ's for the convention can be found here.

Information For First Time Visitors

Do I need to be a member of NAMI to attend? Will I get much out of the convention if I'm not a member?

We encourage both members and nonmembers to attend the convention. NAMI is the nation’s largest and most influential grassroots advocacy group working on behalf of consumers and families. Whether or not you are a member of NAMI, you will benefit from the information offered at the convention, as well as the chance to network with some of the most savvy mental health advocates in the nation.

What does my registration fee include?

The registration fee includes all registration materials, attendance at all meeting sessions and events, and the Banquet dinner on Thursday, July 9. The registration fee does NOT include transportation, lodging, food, or incidental expenses. You must make your hotel and travel arrangements -- and pay for them -- yourself.

What if I register now, but then I am unable to attend? Can I transfer a registration to someone else?

Yes, you can transfer your registration to another person. You must inform us of the transfer in writing no later than May 31, 2009.

When should I plan on arriving in San Francisco, CA?

There are a number of pre-conference sessions and networking meetings scheduled for Monday, July 6 and Tuesday, July 7. The Convention Orientation is scheduled for Monday afternoon, July 6. This is a very helpful session for first time attendees to the convention.

Where should I stay?

The NAMI 2009 Convention is being held at the San Francisco Hilton and Towers, located at 333 O’Farrell St. in San Francisco, CA. NAMI has negotiated special rates for attendees at the Hilton of $155/single and $165 double, plus tax. In order to get the special rate, you must tell the reservation clerk that you are attending the NAMI National Convention and refer to meeting code: NMI. (Be sure to give the reservation clerk N-M-I and not NAMI)

What airport should I fly into?

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the most convenient airport for convention attendees.

When can I register on-site at the convention?

All convention attendees can pick up their name badge and registration materials at the NAMI Registration Desk,located on the Ballroom Level of the Hilton. NAMI's Registration Desk will be open beginning at 8:30 am on Monday, July 6.

What kinds of things happen during the convention?

The convention features plenary sessions offering the latest information from some of the sharpest policy and scientific thinkers in the country, learning tracks on such topics as putting consumers and families in the driver’s seat of the mental health system, our ever-popular ask-the-doctor sessions, and dozens of workshops from the NAMI grassroots.

How do I decide what sessions to attend?

Review the program schedule and plan your schedule so that you can attend the sessions most important to you. Be sure to schedule breaks and other rest periods for yourself. The Convention Orientation is a valuable resource for those attending our convention for the first time. It is scheduled for Monday afternoon, July 6.The full convention program will be released at the convention, but you can receive regular program updates by visiting www.nami.org/convention.

What is a "plenary"?

Plenary sessions are special sessions of general interest held when no other events or sessions are scheduled.

What is the Leadership Institute? Can I attend?

The NAMI Leadership Institute offers leadership and organizational development opportunities to assist NAMI state organizations and local affiliates in meeting the NAMI mission. Any convention attendee in a leadership role of a local or state affiliate is encouraged to attend (including staff, board member, and active volunteer)

Leadership Institute sessions will be held Monday, July 6.

What if I can't go to a session I'm interested in?

You can purchase CD recordings of almost all of the sessions held at convention.

Where can I get session recordings at the convention?

A recording company records nearly all sessions at the convention. A CD order form is included in the registration packet and are also available at the CD sales desk at the convention.

What should I wear at the convention?

Casual clothes are appropriate. There are no formal events but some attendees like to dress up for the Banquet. We highly recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Summer temperatures in San Francisco, range from 66-70 degrees during the day to55-60 degreesat night. Meeting rooms tend to be chilly during the first sessions of the morning so be certain to bring a sweater or a jacket.

Can I bring a guest with me to the Dinner?

Additional tickets for the dinner can be purchased at the NAMI Registration Desk for $60.00.

Is there time for sightseeing during convention or is the schedule full?

If you arrive in San Francisco on Sunday you will have time to sightsee on Sunday afternoon and Monday morning.

Who are my state leaders and how can I meet them?

Most states will be holding caucuses at the convention. It is an excellent time to meet your state leadership. The caucuses will be held on Tuesday evening, July 7.

I am looking for a member of my affiliate, how can I reach them?

A message board will be located in the hotel. Messages for convention attendees can be posted here. The message board also lists last-minute changes in room assignments, state caucuses, and other special meetings.

What are the elections being held? Can I vote?

Elections are held to determine which nominees will sit on the NAMI National Board of Directors. Only credentialed NAMI affiliate representatives can vote for the Board as well as on any pending resolutions or bylaw changes.

Voting will take place on Wednesday, July 8.

contact Ann Nagle at ann@nami.org or (703) 600-1115