The mission of AMI, Inc. is to assist adults with mental illness who live in Washington County to develop the skills and supports they need to be successful and satisfied in the places they choose to live, learn, work and socialize.

Since AMI, Inc. is a non-profit organization, consumers are not charged for the services they receive. However, the agency must pay for necessities such as rent, furnishings for the two sites, supplies, staff salaries and benefits. The following funding organizations meet these financial obligations:

• Washington County MH/MR Program

• Washington County United Way

• Greene County Human Services

• Greene County United Way

In addition, AMI, Inc. receives monetary and volunteer support from individuals and local churches and clubs.

Many people believe that mental illness is the result of personal failure, lack of will power or moral weakness. However, this is not true. Mental illness is caused by genetic biochemical disorders and/or stresses which result in mental, psychological and emotional problems.

            Because of this misunderstanding, reinforced by media over the years, people with mental illness have been stigmatized by all sectors of society. Most people who suffer from mental illness are passive victims with limited control over their lives.

            Mental illness is not as rare as commonly believed. In fact, one in five people have suffered from a mental illness at some point in their lives. Currently, nearly 13% of all Americans suffer from a mental disorder.

            However, during the last 20 years great strides in medical research, both biochemical and psychological, have been changing the lives of people suffering from mental illness. With proper treatment and support, many are now able to lead more productive lives. The tragedy is that a majority of Americans are not aware that people with mental illness can be significantly helped.