Today we’d like to introduce you to Muriel Jones Banks.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Muriel Jones Banks is a native of New Jersey. I am an effective advocate for my son of 33 years with a co-occurring diagnosis. My son’s diagnosis is very complex, and it is not an easy journey. When I relocated to Florida, I would not have imagined an opportunity to use my lived experience to serve as the executive director of a family-run, family support organization in Florida. I am transparent in sharing my successes and setbacks in navigating the System of Care in New Jersey for my son on a local, state, and national level. I have shared my journey with the hope of helping others who may feel they are alone on this rollercoaster ride. I describe my journey as “Same book, different chapter.” My journey is uphill and surreal. Unless you have walked in my shoes, you cannot imagine what difficult decisions are made over the years, sleepless nights, being a prisoner in my own home and crying a river of tears grieving for a child that is alive. However, it has made me stronger and fearless. I help other parents/caregivers to remind them they are not alone.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When you advocate for a loved one with a complex mental health disorder – there is no smooth road. It is rocky, with detours and roadblocks. This journey pushes you to your limits, and you must have something to fall back on. I lean on my faith, a strong support system, and unconditional love for my son to never give up. The system that is accountable to provide appropriate support and services falls short. There are individuals diagnosed with a co-occurring diagnosis (i.e., a developmental delay with a mental health diagnosis, or mental health diagnosis with a substance use). Unfortunately, the system operate in silos. It is not tailored to the individual’s needs but tries to put a square peg in a round hole or a one size fits all. This makes navigating the system challenging and exhausting.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a parent first and serve as the Executive Director of the Federation of Families of Central Florida (FFCFL). I have served in this capacity for 12 years. The organization provides support, education, and advocacy to parents/caregivers of children experiencing an emotional, behavioral, or mental health need or substance use across a lifespan. With a small staff, we have done fantastic work in the community by giving parents/caregivers a platform to increase their voices. What makes the organization unique is hiring parents/caregivers who have lived experience navigating the System of Care. I am most proud of the respite program (ages 3-12). That is my “baby”. Respite is a service delivery gap that was never identified as a need for the parents. Respite provides the parent/caregiver a temporary break for self-care, allowing them to do something for themselves. We are also proud of our Lean on Me Support Groups for parents/caregivers and grandparents (English & Spanish). We are building our speakers bureau preparing parents/caregivers to share their stories. I serve on several committees and boards in Orange County to ensure System of Care is family-driven and youth-guided. We work diligently with others to influence the change in language from mental health awareness to mental health acceptance. We passionately encourage and support families in the community to no longer stay silent — to use their voice to advocate effectively for their loved ones.
Are any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
The Bible inspires me to be the best for my son and the families we serve. FFCFL is an affiliate member of the National Federation of Families and a member of the Family Run Executive Director Leadership Association (FREDLA). These organizations provide technical assistance, resources, and support to executive directors of a family-run, family support organization. This support is a true blessing! For 12 years, Orange County has embraced and supported the service we bring to the community. We are ever so grateful to Orange County for investing in mental and behavioral health to support families living in the Orange County community.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ffcfl/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/muriel-jones-banks
