10/02/2026
We are making a little bit of a plea to our friends, partners, and community tonight. đź’š
Every year, one of the biggest things we hear is: We need more mental health resources. We need more support. We need to know how to help. What to do…
Because when someone we love is struggling, so many of us are left wondering:
What do I say? What do I do? When should I worry? Is this just a phase? How do I help?
Next week, Midwest Youth Services is bringing Ross Szabo to Jacksonville to help us have those conversations, change the conversation, and lift the stigma- and right now, our ticket sales for Thursday night are lower than we had hoped.
Here’s the part I really want our community to hear:
More than 420 students are already signed up to attend Ross’s student assembly on Friday morning.
Our kids are showing up.
Now we need to show up for them.
As parents. As educators. As coaches. As employers. As advocates. As supporters. As a community.
I know it’s a big ask. Groceries are expensive. Gas is expensive. Families have a hundred places their money needs to go. While this event does support Midwest Youth Services by covering cost of food and speaker expenses, this night was never just about fundraising.
It’s about rallying behind mental health awareness. It’s about becoming more comfortable having difficult conversations. And it’s about making sure the adults surrounding our kids are willing to learn, listen, and show up too.
Your ticket includes Ross’s keynote, a catered dinner, dessert, a drink, giveaways, and an evening we have worked incredibly hard to make meaningful and enjoyable.
So if you’ve been on the fence or just haven’t gotten around to purchasing your ticket yet, please join us Thursday night.
Our kids are showing up Friday.
Let’s show them what it looks like when their community shows up for them Thursday. 💚
đź“… Thursday, October 8
🎤 Ross Szabo — Changing the Conversation. Lifting the Stigma.
đź“Ť Keynote at The Chapel | Dinner & evening activities at Chapter 2
🎟️ Tickets: https://midwestyouthservices.betterworld.org/events/mys-presents-ross-szabo-changing
Please share. Invite a friend. Bring a coworker.
Let’s fill the room.
Join Midwest Youth Services for an inspiring evening dedicated to changing the conversation around mental health and building a stronger, more connected community.
