Our deepest condolences go out to the family of Shanda Norton. Her mother, Sylvia Norton, requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made for mental health services. Thank you for thinking of us during these difficult times. You have our deepest sympathy.

Upcoming Consumer Conferences

The Scholarship Application for Alternatives 2008 is now available. Alternatives 2008 will be held October 29, 2008 through November 1, 2008 in Buffalo, NY. http://www.power2u.org/alternatives-2008

Also, the International Conference on Self-Determination will be held May 27 through 29, 2008 in Detroit. For more information, go to http://www.Self-Determination.com

Welcome to WingsAlabama.org
CONTACT: Wings Across Alabama is a non-profit organization for consumers of mental health services with a dedication to making positive change in the lives of consumers through education, advocacy, training, services, and technical assistance as well as through building a strong network of consumers across Alabama with the recognition that inclusion, peer support, true community involvement and participation, self-empowerment, and quality mental health services are KEY ingredients to recovery.

Why do we use geese flying in formation for our logo?
    We thought you might like to know the origin of the WINGS name and logo. In the fall, geese fly south for the winter in a "V" formation. Scientists have discovered that as each goose flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird behind it. By flying this way, the whole flock adds at least 70% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. Whenever a single goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone. Therefore, it learns to fly in formation. When the lead goose gets tired, he rotates to the back and allows another goose to lead. Also, the geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to maintain speed. Finally, when a goose gets sick or wounded and falls out of formation, two geese follow him down to help protect him. They stay with him until he is either able to fly again or dies. Then, they launch out on their own or with another formation to catch up with the group.
    A group of individuals who shares common needs and vision can get where they are going quicker and easier if they travel on the thrust of one another. Together, we will achieve more as a statewide consumer organization if we fly in the same direction. As we build for the future, we encourage each of you to do whatever you can to increase the value of WINGS.