In a star-studded evening that mirrored the laughter and heartfelt conversations often found in Amy Poehler’s comedic works, Bring Change to Mind (BC2M) honored actress, writer, director and bestselling author Poehler and entertainer Wayne Brady for their work as mental health advocates.
The honors were given during the 12th annual Revels & Revelations fundraiser, a lively event held in Woodside on Oct. 10 and coinciding with World Mental Health Day. The night’s lineup ranged from BC2M co-founder Glenn Close to performer and comedian Billy Eichner, as well as BC2M ambassador and “Outer Banks’” heartthrob Chase Stokes.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award. Close and Williams’ long friendship dates back to their days at New York’s Juilliard School in the 1970s. This year’s honor went to Poehler, whose 2024 release of “Inside Out 2” artfully explores emotions and mental health. While fans of the franchise span all ages, it has particularly resonated with younger viewers.
While walking the red carpet, Poehler said, “There’s something about what laughter does to people. It makes us feel connected. It’s a release, a way to self-soothe and to redirect your brain. It can change your perspective. In my case, it’s changed my life.”
The evening also recognized Wayne Brady with the Champion of Change Award for his support of BC2M’s initiative aimed at high school students. Empowering teens to advocate for and start conversations around mental health in their own communities is a core tenet of BC2M.
A group of students from BC2M’s local high school programs were at the event as well. Between giggling over Stokes’ dreamy eyes and arguing over which BC2M therapy dog was the cutest, the students took a more serious moment to voice their appreciation for BC2M’s programs, affirming the need for accessible youth-oriented safe spaces.
“I don’t want to grow up in a world where mental health is not talked about. It shouldn’t be something we are scared to bring up,” said St. Francis High School student Lillian Rodriguez. “That’s why we need these spaces.”
Since its inception in 2010, the BC2M project has expanded to more than 600 schools, mobilizing 14,000 students each year. The Revels & Revelations event raises funds — including $100,000 from American Eagle — to help support the initiative’s continued efforts, helping reach and provide resources to students.
The work is not finished, Close said. “Out of dire necessity, people are talking about (mental health) more,” she said. “But I think as much as it is now part of our common language, there’s still a stigma out there. And that can still be deadly.”
