Issue 5 Volume 2 July 2025

Strengthening the lives of at-risk youth and young adults so they may be mentally healthy and receive needed mental health programming and support.

President’s Message

As we embark on year three of our initiative, it is the time for reflection on all that we have accomplished and a time to thank our volunteers and donors. I am so proud that we've been able to identify dedicated organizations in our community addressing mental health concerns with young people. As an all-volunteer granting organization focused on improving the lives of youth and young adults struggling with mental health challenges, we are building partnerships with large programs in our area, so that we can make an even greater impact.

We recently met with our state representative and other local leaders to advocate for additional support for mental health programming and resources. One significant theme we identified over these two years is that starting younger than high school and talking about mental healthiness in schools is a highly effective strategy to address the mental health challenges that so many youth face. A recent report indicates that suicide is the #2 cause of death for 10-14 year olds. In response, we are identifying and funding school-based programs to reach these younger children. We must break down the stigma associated with asking for help when kids struggle with anxiety and depression.

Gratefully, Larry Butz

Nearly 200 enthusiastic supporters joined us in June at Phase Three Brewery for the anniversary celebration of establishing Meg’s Legacy of Hope. Bringing together so many supporters for the summer bash is a true testament that our community shares the mission to improve mental health for our youth.

We were thrilled to have some of the grantees join this event to meet the generous people supporting the foundation. A great night was had by all, and we look forward to continue hosting casual, fun events in support of mental health.

GRANTEE UPDATE

Meg’s Legacy granted multiple non-profit organizations in 2025 that offer programs aligned with our mission. In each newsletter, we highlight one of the grant recipients so our generous donors can learn how funds are shared to help make a difference in the world around us.

Willow House, based in Bannockburn, $15,000 grant, provides grief support and education for youth, families, schools and other communities grieving the death of a parent, sibling, or child. Their free services ‘provide a place where hope lives and healing begins,’ allowing people to grieve in companionship with others who share a similar loss. Their vision is that no child, teen or parent grieves alone. They provide Peer Support Groups, Survivors of Suicide Groups, Expressive Arts, and more.

GRANT CYCLE 3 OPENING AUGUST

We are excited to announce our 2025 grant cycle will open in August! Meg’s Legacy will accept and review grant requests from organizations in the Greater Chicago area. All submissions will be accepted through our online portal.

If you know of any non-profit programs that serve youth in mental health counseling or educational programs, please tell them about us! We would love to consider supporting them. For any questions or suggestions, please email us at Grants@MegsLegacyofHope.org.

Read Full Article Here

ILLINOIS

STATE REPRESENTATIVE NABEELA SYED

MEETING

Founders Larry and Mary Jo Butz and board member Susan Stoga met with Illinois State Representative Nabeela Syed (D-51) to discuss our progress at Meg’s Legacy and a variety of mental health issues, including the need for more mental health education in schools.

It's Finally Here!

GOLF OUTING/ SPONSORSHIPS

Meg's Legacy of Hope is excited to announce our 3rd Annual Golf Outing and Dinner is coming up on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Hawthorn Woods Country Club.

Although golf that day is sold out, you can still support our mission! Become a sponsor, purchase a dinner ticket, or donate by clicking here.

We are also looking for donations to our live and silent auction to help make this event a success. If you have a fun experience package, vacation offering, gift certificate or any other item to share, we would greatly appreciate your contribution.

If you have any questions, please contact our Golf Co-Chairs, Sophie Butz and Kerry Miller, at info@megslegacyofhope.org.

GROWING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Megan Butz Legacy of Hope has appointed Ken Edwards and Beth Sherman, PsyD, to its Board of Directors. Both leaders bring extensive experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission of providing support and resources to youth with mental health challenges.

Ken Edwards

Beth Sherman, PsyD

EXPERTS CORNER

Here at Meg’s Legacy, we think it’s important to be a voice to address mental health issues. We feature an educational article in each newsletter, and today, we address the topic of self-harm by youth.

Unfortunately, some school administrators, teachers and staff—particularly those in the mental health roles- have observed a troubling trend: students learning about self-harm and the romanticization of suicide through social media platforms, especially TikTok. The students who engage in this behavior are as young as elementary students.

Many parents have been unaware of their students' engagement in these trends until their children show signs of participation. Parents are left feeling shocked, deeply concerned and struggling to broach the subject with their children and school administration.

Read Full Article Here

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHTS: LIZ THOMPSON and MORGAN KELLEN

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We want you to meet more of our integral team of volunteers and get a bit of insight into their involvement and passion for Meg’s Legacy of Hope. Our important mission could never happen without the dedicated commitment of all our heroes. BIG THANKS to Liz and Morgan!

Meet Liz and Morgan!