In this episode of Will to Wellness, host Teena Mackey sits down with Michelle Pruim from NAMI Will Grundy. They discuss how NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) fills the gap between professional care and personal wellness through free, peer-led support groups and evidence-based education programs for individuals, youth, and families in Will County.
6 Nov 2026
Will to Wellness #8 Will Pole
Host Teena Mackey sits down with Willie Pole, founder of FOCUOS (Focusing On Critically Using Our Skills). After spending 22 years in prison, Willie P serves as a "credible messenger" to help guide local youth through trauma, life skills, and mentorship. Key Topics Covered: FOCUOS Mission: Helping youth leverage their natural talents to become productive citizens. Workforce Development: Teaching teens program creation, communication, and job readiness by having them facilitate activities for younger children. Mental Health & Life Skills: Incorporating weekly check-ins and guidance. Community Support: Providing meals, safe spaces, and a family-like environment to keep kids safe and supported.
6 Oct 2026
Will to Wellness Chris Cavera (WCSO)
This episode features a discussion with Detective Sergeant Chris Cavera from the Will County Sheriff’s Office regarding child safety, specifically concerning online risks. We talk about ways to help parents and caregivers understand what red flags to look out for in regards to the digital world.
6 Oct 2026
Will to Wellness Rabbi Jenny (Stepping Stones)
We sit down with Rabbi Jenny, Executive Director at Stepping Stones, to talk about recovery, managing co-occurring conditions, and the critical role medication management plays in long-term wellness.
6 Oct 2026
Will to Wellness Jaron Nabors (2morrowStartz2Day)
Teena Mackey sits down with Jaron Nabors Sr, founder of 2morrow Startz 2day. After 16 years in federal prison, Jaron transformed his life to mentor local youth ages 10–18. Learn how his organization supports the community through free after-school care, summer programs, field trips, and annual events like the "Healing the Hood" backpack drive. We also hear the impact of 708 board funding towards his mission.
4 Sept 2026
Will to Wellness Paula (Wilmington Coalition)
In this episode, Teena sits down with Paula Ekstrom from the Wilmington Coalition for a Healthier Community to discuss youth mental health and substance misuse prevention in rural areas. *Listener discretion is advised due to sensitive subject matter.
4 Sept 2026
Will to Wellness Linda (Mental Health Matters Fund)
In this episode of Will to Wellness, we hear from Linda and a little about her experiences. Linda credits her engagement with the "Mental Health Matters" program as critical, noting that it provided the financial support necessary to continue therapy after she lost her job. She emphasizes that it is essential for individuals to find a therapist they "click" with and to not feel discouraged if the first professional they see is not the right match.
*Listener discretion is advised due to sensitive subject matter.
4 Sept 2026
Will to Wellness Jim (Second Story Ranch)
In this episode of Will to Wellness, host Teena Mackey sits down with grantee Jim O'Connor from the Second Story Foundation to discuss men’s mental health and the critical pathways to navigating long-term sobriety at Second Story Ranch.
*Some episodes may include mature or sensitive subject matter that could be emotionally challenging for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
8 Aug 2026
Will to Wellness Katie Diaz Hughes (Mental Health Matters Fund)
In this episode of Will to Wellness, host Teena Mackey interviews Katie Diaz Hughes, co-founder of Mental Health Matters Fund, about how their organization uses grant funding to provide critical financial assistance to underinsured residents needing therapy and mental health support. We also learn more about the story behind Mental Health Matters Fund and its impact.
*Some episodes may include mature or sensitive subject matter that could be emotionally challenging for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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