Minds Matter: Orland Township Shines a Light on Mental Health

ORLAND PARK, IL — On Thursday, May 16, Orland Township hosted the first annual Minds Matter on township grounds at 14807 S. Ravinia Ave. The event drew over 120 attendees who engaged in browsing vendors, lighting tribute lanterns, sampling local cuisine, participating in an honor walk, and enjoying live music by The PonyBoys.

Local organizations such as Orland Township play a pivotal role in promoting awareness about mental health and combating associated stigmas. Minds Matter, overseen by Youth & Family Services Coordinator Gina Miceli-Chigaros, made a substantial contribution to this cause.

"Minds Matter was established to promote awareness and provide support for mental health. During the month of May, we commemorate Mental Health Awareness Month by offering valuable resources to help individuals prioritize their mental well-being and combat the stigma surrounding mental health challenges." said Miceli-Chigaros.

A portion of the event's proceeds will benefit NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), the largest grassroots mental health organization in the nation, dedicated to enhancing the lives of millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Further information about NAMI's services can be found at www.nami.org.

"The event was an enriching experience, fostering unity in addressing internal struggles while endeavoring to dispel mental health misconceptions and taboos. Our collective objective was to raise awareness and advocate for the well-being of all individuals in our community, and we certainly achieved that," stated Supervisor Paul O'Grady.

Orland Township extends its gratitude to gold sponsors, The Thriving You PLLC and Orland Park Bank & Trust, for their valued support. The Township also expresses appreciation for the volunteers and staff, including Township Clerk Cindy Murray, her husband Tim, and daughter Ava.

Orland Township would like to thank Victress: A Wellness Center for Women, The Pointe, Pathlights, Crystal Healing Studio, Beyond Acceptance, The Thriving You PLLC, Orland Township, Linden Oaks, Sunkissed Greenz, Consolidated High School District 230, Nourish Herb & Acupuncture, Mosaic Counseling & Wellness, Orland Park Library, Cook County Sheriff Treatment Response Team, Children on a Mission, Personal Balance Counseling, Grace in Love, Inc., Shatterproof, AL - Anon, Compassionate Friends, Catholic Charities- LOSS: Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide, Timberline Knolls, Trinity Services: The Living Room, Mariposa Psychological Services, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse, Rock Bottom, Papa Joe's, Hillgrove Tap, Hienie's McCarthy's, and Sub City for their participation.

For more information on Orland Township happenings, please call at (708) 403-4222, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or visit the website at www.orlandtownship.org.