The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress
Meet the Team
Karen Kallay
Karen serves as coordinator of the Rappahannock Region NAMI team. She has experience as a trained NAMI Connections support group facilitator and for making presentations to community groups. She has been seen in a llama costume doing outreach at community events.
Her devotion to NAMI grew out of her recovery from clinical depression when she found more help from a NAMI support group than from her therapist..
Kristy Stonehill
Kristy volunteers as the Program Coordinator for NAMI in the Rappahannock Region. She has become familiar with the diversity of "signature" NAMI programs, help to match volunteers with the most appropriate program, arranges the training and helps fill community requests.
She also has experience as a former staff person for the nonprofit CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates, which looks out for children in the court system. Kristy came to know mental illness through a family member and believes strongly in what NAMI programs provide.
Travis King
Travis is determined to help others like himself--a minority, a guy, and a veteran who experienced mental illness.
While waiting for his training he attends a support group and watches for opportunities to help reach the public by staffing NAMI information tables at public events. He ensures that the NAMI Rappahannock Facebook postings continue to reach out.
Chuck Gray
has handled all aspects of our newsletter for the last few years. He says, "I volunteer with NAMI because I deal with mental illness personally and I want to do even the little I'm capable of to help others.
I am a librarian and enjoy reading and listening to music. Life is up and down for me, but I've learned to accept that and embrace the moments of stability. "
Elaine Arnold
Elaine is devoted to facilitating a local Connections support group as she has continued to do so for over 25 years! Over the years she has also co-facilitated bi-weekly interactive presentations to residents of Sunshine Lady House and other nonprofit organizations. to her training to help people.
She makes herself available around the clock to respond to the help and information line on the local NAMI website. She also has been the main organizer of fund-raising through the annual state NAMI walk each fall. She credits her personal experience healing from mental illness with adding
Xavier Warthen
Xavier is a dedicated student at VCU, pursuing a major in Psychology with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies. His personal journey includes overcoming mental health challenges and discovering the path to a fulfilling and productive life. Xavier is committed to inspiring and supporting youth and young adults by openly sharing his experiences, both here and through engaging presentations at local middle and high schools.
While his family resides in Fredericksburg, Xavier calls Richmond home, where he shares his life with his beloved cat, chinchilla, and two closest friends. He finds solace in nature, enjoys playing soccer, and is passionate about wellness practices.
