Welcome!

The Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago (MHAGC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping our communities tackle mental illness.
For over 60 years, we’ve brought mental health education to schools, homes, and Chicagoland communities with customized, research-backed programs and tools. Our work has served to break the stigma surrounding mental illness, and empowers our communities to seek necessary support for prevention and effective treatment.

Our Mission

At MHAGC, we firmly believe that when families have the tools and support they need, children thrive. Our organization is here to ensure that no family in Chicagoland faces mental health challenges alone.

By empowering parents today, MHAGC is helping to build a stronger, healthier future for generations of children across Chicagoland.

Support Our Work

Information & Resources

At MHAGC, we use education-based strategies to tackle mental health issues. Our holistic approach ensures that MHAGC education programs are designed not just for those vulnerable to mental illnesses, but also for their loved ones.

We believe that effective and accessible education is the key to draw urgent attention to mental health issues. This is essential to ensure that the right support can be reached for both prevention and effective treatment.

Did You Know?

Nearly 1 in 3 Americans are diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

20% of adolescents reported having unmet mental health care needs.

18% of youth aged 12-17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year.

32% of teens have an anxiety disorder, with prevalance higher among older teens and females.

Thoughtful Thursday

Gabe Karp

May 2025

Feel Good Friday

Lori Zacharias

May 2025

Timeout Tuesday

Meditation with Allison Beyer

May 2025

Planned Services

MHAGC is currently assessing which types of programming would most benefit our Chicago communities.

We're in the early stages of planning various initiatives for families and youth that are struggling with mental health issues.

Please visit our site frequently for updates on new programming! Or, if you have an idea and you'd like to share it with us, please email your ideas and questions to: admin@mhagc.net.

Support Group Services and Meet-Ups

We're currently planning to offer support groups so that Chicagoland families and children have accessible options to talk to people struggling with the same issues.

Stay tuned!

TBD!

Programming is forthcoming!

TBD!

Program is forthcoming!

Meet our Leadership

MHAGC is operated and supported by these individuals, who are passionate about championing mental health awareness and accessible services to our Chicagoland communities.

Director

Eli Ugliano

Eli has dedicated his entire career to the non-profit sector. From immigrant and refugee support to services for the unhoused, he has witnessed how deeply mental health intersects with the human condition. Eli is a suicide survivor and is deeply committed to bringing mental health awareness and support to underserved communities.

Chairman of the Board

Bob Oros

Bob brings extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to advancing mental health initiatives in our community. With a background in corporate leadership, Bob guides the organization in building stronger programs, partnerships, and support systems for individuals and families facing mental health challenges.

Board Member

Lauren Kovar

Lauren serves on the board with a focus on financial stewardship, bringing expertise in budgeting, planning, and strategic resource management. Her guidance helps ensure MHAGC's sustainability and ability to expand vital mental health programs in Chicagoland.

Board Member

Bob Nelson

Bob has been a dedicated supporter of MHAGC for many years, offering steady leadership and a strong commitment to its mission. His ongoing involvement continues to shape programs and strengthen the impact of mental health services across the community.

Board Member

Robby Schoenhoft

Robby brings years of leadership and business experience to MHAGC and is passionate about supporting families and creating resilient communities. As a parent, he values MHAGC's focus on children and families and looks forward to helping more Chicagoans access the resources they need.

Board Member

Joe Moran

Joe is a master at building relationships--both personal and professional. Joe has been working with MHAGC to bring more awareness to mental health issues and improve lives across the Chicagoland region.

Board Member

Claire Stewart

Claire has led multiple research teams for Chicago agencies over the years, and understands the value of a good mental health regimen as she balances working full time, with parenting full time. She loves MHAGC's focus on families and youth and hopes we can serve as many Chicagoans as possible this year!

Board Member

Open Seat

Add a short bio for each team member. Make it brief and informative to keep visitors engaged.

Board Member

Open Seat

Add a short bio for each team member. Make it brief and informative to keep visitors engaged.

Check out our blog

Why 46% of Schools Report Worsening Student Mental Health (And 5 Ways Chicagoland Families Can Bridge the Gap)

If you're a parent in Chicagoland, you've probably noticed something troubling: more kids are struggling with anxiety, depression, and emotional challenges than ever before. You're not imagining it, and you're definitely not alone in feeling concerned. Recent data reveals that school mental health providers across the country are reporting significantly worsening student mental health: with some studies showing increases as high as 58% compared to previous years. Here in the

Community-Based vs. Institutional Mental Health Care: Which Is Better for Your Child's Recovery?

When your child is struggling with mental health challenges, one of the most important decisions you'll face is choosing the right type of care. Should you consider residential treatment facilities, or would community-based services better serve your family? As parents in Chicagoland, you have access to both options, but understanding which approach truly supports lasting recovery can make all the difference in your child's journey toward wellness. The mental health field has

Are School Mental Health Programs Really Helping Your Teen? Here's What Cook County's $50M Initiative Means for Families

You've probably heard about Cook County's $50 million mental health initiative and wondered: Is this actually going to help my teenager? The short answer is yes, but maybe not in the way you think. This isn't just another program throwing money at the problem – it's a strategic investment designed to fix the underlying issues that have been preventing your teen from getting the support they need. Let's break down what's really happening and what it means for your family. Th

Welcome!

Our Mission

Information & Resources

Did You Know?

Additional Resources

Planned Services

Support Group Services and Meet-Ups

TBD!

TBD!

Meet our Leadership

Check out our blog

Why 46% of Schools Report Worsening Student Mental Health (And 5 Ways Chicagoland Families Can Bridge the Gap)

Community-Based vs. Institutional Mental Health Care: Which Is Better for Your Child's Recovery?

Are School Mental Health Programs Really Helping Your Teen? Here's What Cook County's $50M Initiative Means for Families