President's Letter

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and stand with our community to ensure that no one struggles alone. It is an opportunity to promote action to care for the mental healthiness of ourselves and loved ones. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and building strong community connections can bust the silence and stigma that so many people suffer.  

We can all make a difference by starting a conversation, asking someone how they are, and being ready to truly listen. One honest conversation can be a turning point in someone’s life. Nobody should have to face their anxiety, stress or depression alone. Perhaps all it takes is for one person to start a conversation if they notice warning signs and seek help for their friend or child, because resources and support are out there. Healing is possible if we reach out and help one another; or know when we need to ask for some help ourselves. 

Supporting mental health is our mission at Meg’s Legacy of Hope. We have granted more than $700,000 since our founding in 2023, including the 13 newest grantees, many returning organizations, who were awarded $312,500 in April. The grant committee selected recipients focused on direct counseling, suicide prevention education and mental health support for youth in our communities. 

Thanks to your generosity, many young people in our communities are receiving vital support to live mentally healthy.

Together we can make a difference.

Larry Butz 

Here at Meg’s Legacy of Hope, our team wants to destigmatize mental health issues and collectively be a voice to raise awareness. Mental health professionals serve as our Advisors and generously share their expertise in sharing educational articles in Meg’s Legacy newsletters. 

This month we feature two helpful articles. It is so important to find a path to strengthen the mind when dealing with challenges in today’s society. 

The Problem with Social Media

written by Liz Thompson, Psy.D.


As the end of the school year approaches, it’s worthwhile reviewing how to best approach your child’s social media use in advance of the upcoming summer break. Social media has become the new “best friend” for many children and adolescents and even adults. You can hardly go to a restaurant without seeing someone on their smart phone watching something—unfortunately, usually it is a child or teenager.

When "Easygoing" Isn't So Simple: Understanding "Fawning" in Teens written by Beth Sherman, Psy.D.


Many parents hope for a teen who is agreeable, polite, and easy to get along with. On the surface, these traits seem like signs of emotional maturity. But experts warn that what looks like a calm, accommodating personality may actually be something more concerning: a stress response known as “fawning.”

Festivities include casual food and drinks (beer, wine and non-alcoholic), at Phase Three Brewery in Lake Zurich. Live music from Stu the Piano Guy too! 

Tickets are now available for purchase. We also have sponsorships available if your company would like to support the event. Come enjoy the fun at this lively summer bash, supporting the mission to improve mental health in our community. 

NEED HELP NOW? CALL/TEXT 988 

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call 988 or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Confidential, judgment-free support is available to anyone 24/7.

Read our 988 article

To Donate: Text "MLOH" to 855-800-4975

Follow the prompts to make and pay for your donation.

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