Macintosh was only with notMYkid for a few weeks when an exciting development happened. Thanks to donor generosity, the organization had the opportunity to convert a 13,000-square-foot former Discount Tire regional office in Phoenix into a center where they could help young people. Macintosh and the notMYkid team went to work converting the building into a welcoming environment for improving mental and physical health. “It has incredible energy and a beautiful courtyard that all the suites look out to, so it’s self-contained. We came up with the idea for the name ‘The Well,’” she said. “My direct experience with what my son and three other kids needed — post-pandemic, pre-pandemic, during the pandemic — was a place to go and fill up on whatever goodness they could fill up on.” The Well provided a chance for notMYkid to expand its programs and reach thousands more people — and help young people reconnect after the isolation of the pandemic. “We took all these different rooms and suites on the campus and started assigning them a different identity to see what fit,” Macintosh said. “It’s evolved, but everything has its home now. And focusing on the well-being — emotional, physical, spiritual, mental well-being of our kids — is our number-one priority.” Now, Macintosh is honoring Chase’s memory by helping ensure young people and their families don’t go through the same tragic experience they suffered. She wants to assure other parents that come in that they are doing things right, even if their child is going through a difficult time. She said that being able to talk openly with others is critical to the healing process. “I think we all need to be very frank with ourselves and honest with each other and not be afraid to open up to people about what’s really going on,” she said. “Everyone’s struggling, and the level of support that can happen when people are transparent is huge. We don’t know how to help people unless they open up. “That’s how we’re going to make it through — by being honest and open and transparent,” Macintosh said. To learn more, go to notMYkid.org . After two decades of service, notMYkid has transformed to meet the unique needs facing youth and their families today. “ Everyone’s struggling, and the level of support that can happen when people are transparent is huge.” JANUARY 2022 | 48 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA

A donation to Gabirel’s Angels will provide pet therapy services to Arizona’s future, and you can claim the tax credit on your 2021 individual income tax return. Donate up to $400 (single) or $800 (joint/married) to inspire confidence, compassion, and best behaviors in at-risk youth through pet therapy. You can make a difference! Visit our website to find out more. Donate for love. Donate for change. Donate for smiles. www.gabrielsangels.org/tax #petshelpingkids