'I'm A Conduit': Organizer Designs Orland Mental Health Event To Spotlight Help Available

ORLAND PARK, IL — The director of an Orland Park charity focused on lifting the spirits of children and families in need has again channeled her will to help into a new effort, aimed at mental health support and awareness.

Michelle Maxia, director of Toy Box Connection, has created "Be Kind To Your Mind" Mental Health/Wellness Fair and Walk, an event to connect members of the community with mental health resources. Featuring nearly 30 vendors, a 2K "Drop the Rock" walk, family activities and food trucks, the event is set for Saturday, May 31.

Maxia, who has lost close friends and family to suicide, said she's hoping to show those who might need it the help that's available to them.

"I want this event to have meaning," Maxia told Patch. "I want somebody to show up who needs help, and gets connected to something. If one person stays and finds that resource, and stays and gets better, everything I’ve done is for that one person. If it’s only one, I’m okay with that, because I did it for them."

Among the event's vendors—or as Maxia calls them, "Local Wellness Warriors"—are yoga, massage, acupuncture, a therapy pony and more. Sound, light, and massage therapists will also be present.

"A lot of amazing people," Maxia said. "I grabbed a handful of some really good people."

Maxia has a heart for helping people, having years ago started the organization centered around re-homing used books and toys 16 years ago. A former police officer, Maxia said her encounters with battered women, addicts and children in dire circumstances stirred something in her.

"I decided I need to do something," she said. "My kids had toys, and I had to figure out something to do with them. I wanted to give them to a shelter."

There didn't seem to be an organization like that, she said—that specifically donated used toys and books to shelters.

"Out of my garage it began," Maxia said. "And now I have 30,000 square feet pf space, and millions of toys go through my hands to children. Clothes, food, furniture—whatever I can get my hands on, comes to me, and I pass it on.

"In the interim, I’m sitting here thinking, the world’s seeming a little bit broken right now."

After enduring the recent grief of loss by suicide, Maxia pivoted to creating a mental health awareness effort.

"I am a mover and a shaker," she said. "So I made a decision. I’ve had a lot of tragedy, but I’m trying to turn it, into something for somebody else."

The Be Kind To Your Mind event was created, and the pieces began to fall into place.

The free event, set for Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will be held at 10401 W. 153rd St. In Orland Park.

It's described as "a day for the community to come together during Mental Health Awareness
Month.

"Whether you or someone you know is struggling, this event is intended to raise the bar and showcase the healing resources that are available."

A 2K "Drop the Rock" walk, in particular, is designed to be a cathartic, interactive and meditative experience for participants, she said.

Home Depot will also offer a chance to make bird feeders and planters—a hands-on activity.

"I am crafty in a whole other way," Maxia joked.

Kid- and teen-friendly activities include a bounce house, teen obstacle course, family games, and an arts and crafts tent. Food trucks will include Joey's Red Hots, Rainbow Cone, La Michoacana Azteca, and a taco truck.

Maxia hopes the community will come to get a glimpse of resources that can lift those in need from dark places.

"Really it’s about coming together, and raising each other up," Maxia said. "And annihilating the stigma of mental health. It is absolutely OK not to be OK. Let’s not push people down. Let’s lift each other up. Let’s show them what it’s like to lift people up.

"Honestly, it’s not even for me. It’s not about me—I’m just a conduit. I’m hoping I’m a good one."