Events That Heal and Unite

In October 2024, Max’s Mission hosted “Skate Talk” at Frontier Park in Naperville. Pro skateboarders John Gardner, Wes Kremer and Brandon Turner skated with attendees, judged a skate contest, and facilitated a conversation about mental health, physical well-being, and suicide in a safe space for teens and young adults.

Hosted at Four Lakes Snowsports in Lisle, this annual event honors the lives of Max Wijangco and another young man from the Four Lakes community who both lost their lives to suicide.

As avid snowboarders and friends from Four Lakes, Max and Sean’s legacy lives on through this event. The Rail Jam draws people of all ages from throughout the Chicago community and beyond for a day or competition, comraderie, and remembrance.

In September 2023, Max’s Mission hosted QPR training at Metea Valley High School. The 90-minute training equips participants to help save lives during a mental health crisis by teaching them practical skills, much like CPR for physical health emergencies.

In March 2025, Max’s Mission hosted a screening of “Talking OutLOUD; Teens and Suicide Loss” at the Mental Health Symposium at Metea Valley High School. Following the film, a Q&A session encourage open dialogue about suicide and healing. Max’s Mission also hosted an informational table, engaging attendees in meaningful conversations about mental health and suicide awareness.

In July of 2022 Max’s 16th birthday was celebrated at Frontier Skate Park along with his friends, family and the skate community. There was a talk about mental health and suicide awareness along with a skate contest and prizes. Max’s life and legacy were acknowledged, celebrated and talked about throughout this event that was free and open to everyone in the community.