Jess Begley is our Youth Programs Administrator, where she connects youth to mental health resources by organizing wellness fairs and presentations like “Ending the Silence” and “Walk In My Shoes” at Santa Clara County schools.
She has always looked for creative ways to connect with and educate young people. Her eclectic experience includes teaching marine science at an aquarium, mentoring youth in Sunday School, coordinating high school volunteer programs at a science museum, and leading complex escape room adventures.
Jess discovered NAMI Santa Clara County while in recovery from her own mental health condition, taking the Peer-to-Peer course in 2025 and later becoming a Peer Connector in the Community Peer Program. Stepping into the Youth Programs Administrator role was especially meaningful to her, as her personal mental health journey began in high school. As a teen, it was a challenge to receive the essential resources or support she needed to understand her experiences. Despite these setbacks, she still graduated as a first-generation college student from UC San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in biology.
She understands the obstacles and stigma that come with living with a mental health condition. But she knows that change is possible, and each hurdle we face is another opportunity for discovering the strength within ourselves. In her free time, Jess enjoys spending time with her family and her little dog Battie, watching sports, playing video games, and journaling at the library.