Community-Based Recovery Services

Measuring our support, education, impact and outreach work.

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About Community-Based Recovery Services

Moving from a long-term care facility into independent living is a big step, and it doesn’t happen overnight. NAMI Chicago’s recovery team provides peer support inside select facilities and continues that support as people transition into the community. This work helps program participants, also referred to as Class Members, build confidence, develop skills, and take meaningful steps toward recovery and independent living.

We currently provide services at Colbert and Williams facilities across Chicago and suburban Cook County at three key stages: before, during, and after transition into the community.

Pre-transition support

Peer-led support focused on engagement, relationship-building, and preparing for community living.

Our team works with Class Members who are currently living in a facility. Peer support specialists provide both one-on-one and group support to help individuals take meaningful steps toward recovery and prepare for the possibility of transitioning into the community.

Through this support, Class Members can:

Build foundational recovery and wellness skills

Set goals for community living

Increase confidence and self-advocacy

Connect with others through shared lived experience

Improve overall quality of life

Transition support

One-on-one peer support focused on transitioning into the community and building stability after the move.

Our team works with Class Members who are preparing to leave a facility or have recently transitioned into independent living. Each individual is paired with a peer support specialist who provides consistent, personalized support for up to 12 months during and after the move.

This support is centered in the home and community, helping Class Members adjust to a new environment and build confidence in daily life.

Through this support, Class Members can:

Explore goals for recovery and independent living

Develop and adjust a personalized transition plan

Connect to services and community-based supports

Build confidence navigating the community

Strengthen daily living and independence skills

Testimonials

“I was given rental assistance, SNAP, Medicaid, to help align things and it helps, but nobody heals you better than you heal yourself.”

STEPHANIE

“It started with the first person who gave me a chance […] leading to a domino effect of support that landed me where I am today.”

DAVID

If you are a resident at one of these facilities, talk to NAMI staff on site to learn more.

If you’re looking for support or want to learn more about facility-based care and recovery options in the Chicago area, call or text the NAMI Chicago Helpline at 833-626-4244.

Stephanie’s story

After experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges, Steph rebuilt her life through determination and NAMI Chicago’s In Home Recovery Support Program. With peer guidance and clear goals, she regained independence, secured employment and became an inspiring example of recovery and self-empowerment.

David’s story

David’s story is one of resilience and determination. After battling with alcohol and substance use, David found the power within himself to make a change. He found himself on one hot summer day, walking into a shelter making the first step in his recovery.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Colbert and Williams programs?

The Colbert and Williams Consent Decrees are statewide efforts that support people living in nursing facilities or specialized mental health rehabilitation facilities (SMHRFs) who want to move into the community. These individuals are referred to as Class Members.

Who are Class Members?

Class Members are individuals living in nursing facilities or SMHRFs who are eligible for services and supports to help them transition into community-based living.

What does NAMI Chicago do in these programs?

NAMI Chicago provides peer support to Class Members at different stages of their recovery and transition. Our staff work inside facilities and in the community to build relationships, support recovery, and help individuals prepare for and sustain independent living.

How do Class Members enter the program?

Class Members are identified through outreach and assessments conducted by Maximus, a partner working with the State of Illinois. Individuals can also express interest through the Illinois Helpdesk.

What happens during the transition process?

If a Class Member chooses to transition, they work with a Care Manager to create a plan based on their goals, needs, and preferences. This includes housing, services, and ongoing support in the community.

Does NAMI Chicago help with housing?

NAMI Chicago does not directly provide housing, but we support Class Members as they navigate the transition process and connect to the services and resources they need, including housing supports.

Where are these services offered?

NAMI Chicago provides services in select Colbert and Williams sites across Chicago and suburban Cook County.

How can someone learn more or get support?

Class Members can talk to NAMI staff at their facility. Anyone interested in getting more information about recovery, treatment, and support options in the Chicago area can call or text the NAMI Chicago Helpline at 833-626-4244.

Peer support in the community

NAMI Chicago support groups are free, confidential, and led by people with lived experience. They’re open to anyone looking for connection, understanding, and support.

The recovery journey

Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Learn how NAMI Chicago approaches recovery, what it can look like in everyday life, and how people build stability, connection, and purpose over time.

Treatment & care options

Understand the types of mental health treatment, providers, and services available, and how to navigate care in Chicago and suburban Cook County.