Mental health resources, community collaboration, and upcoming local events took center stage during a recent Fernley Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Breakfast, where members gathered to network, share updates, and hear from regional leaders.
The featured presentation focused on expanding behavioral health services across Lyon County and Northern Nevada, led by representatives from NAMI Western Nevada (National Alliance on Mental Illness), and regional behavioral health leadership.
Laura Yanez of NAMI Western Nevada, joined by Northern Regional Behavioral Health Coordinator Madalyn Larson, outlined a growing network of support services aimed at improving access to care in rural communities.
Yanez emphasized that mental health conditions are “real, biological, and medical.” She also acknowledged there is hope for people with mental illness despite misconceptions surrounding it.
“Stigma is real. Recovery is possible,” she said.
NAMI Western Nevada, which serves 12 rural counties, offers education, advocacy, and support programs, many of which are now delivered virtually to overcome geographic barriers.
Among the key resources highlighted were a statewide helpline assisting residents in navigating mental health services; the “Warmline,” a peer-support phone service available daily for adults; a Teen Text Line, one of only two in the nation, connecting youth with trained peer supporters; and crisis response and follow-up programs aimed at reducing hospitalizations.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Warmline handled approximately 7,500 calls per month, underscoring the demand for accessible support.
Yanez noted that Lyon County has seen measurable improvements in recent years, including an increase in providers and shorter wait times for care.
Efforts to strengthen local response capabilities are also underway. A recent 40-hour crisis response training, conducted in partnership with local law enforcement and human services, certified 20 new individuals in de-escalation techniques.
Additionally, Lyon County now offers mobile crisis response teams, including both adult and youth services, which can respond in person alongside law enforcement when needed.
Residents were encouraged to utilize available resources, including dialing 988 for mental health emergencies or guidance on next steps.
Madalyn Larson, who serves as a liaison between the state and rural communities, highlighted the importance of local input in shaping policy and funding decisions.
Elaborating on how her role fits into that concept, she said, “I’m the person who suits up, shows up, and talks to people, making sure I understand what’s going on. The state can’t be in these counties and communities at the same time to understand what everyone really needs. I build relationships, communicate back to the state, and get the money utilized correctly for the communities’ actual needs.”
The Northern Regional Behavioral Health Policy Board, which includes representation from Lyon County, continues to advocate for improvements in areas such as transportation, crisis response, and access to care.
With May recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, organizers encouraged residents and businesses to participate by promoting awareness and sharing resources.
NAMI Western Nevada also announced upcoming advocacy training sessions to help community members effectively communicate with policymakers. You can find out more about NAMI’s mission and programs by visiting their website: namiwesternnevada.org
A fundraising golf tournament is scheduled for Aug. 1 at the Fernley Golf Course, with proceeds supporting local mental health programs.
In addition to the featured presentation on NAMI, chamber members shared several announcements:
• A new 2026 Chamber Member Directory is in development, with advertising opportunities available
• Sponsorships are open for future Ambassadors Breakfast events
• The annual Fernley Chamber Golf Tournament is approaching, with opportunities for sponsorship, raffle donations, and volunteers
• Local businesses are encouraged to participate in upcoming events, including the M3 Festival (Music, Murals and Mental Health Week), set to begin May 8
The breakfast also included brief remarks from community members, business updates, and information on upcoming events and initiatives.
The next Fernley Chamber Ambassadors Breakfast is scheduled for May 12.
To join the Fernley Chamber of Commerce or get more information on topics discussed at meetings, you can visit the chamber’s website: fernleychamber.com or call (775) 575-4459.
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