Chaoticon Partners with Suicide Prevention Charity: Organizer Interview
Chaoticon takes place September 13th and 14th in LaPorte and has teamed with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to give back at the event.
Chaotic Empire is an anime and collectible store based out of LaPorte, Indiana. Owned by Martin and Kaitlyn Meija-Ruiz, the store sells a variety of Funko Pops, t-shirts, anime figures, and other collectibles. They will be promoting the first ever Chaoticon event in September with a charitable twist.
After years of setting up shop in the vendor halls of various comic and anime conventions, the store has decided to host its own convention. Chaoticon will take Place September 13th and 14th at the Dunes Event Center in LaPorte.
Announced guests so far include Power Rangers in Space and Power Rangers Turbo stars Tracy Lynn Cruz, Selwyn Ward, and Roger Velasco. Anime voice actors scheduled to appear include Paul St. Peter (Kingdom Hearts, Naurto, Digimon), Michael Sorich (Naurto, Power Rangers, Kill La Kill), Steve Kramer (Naurto, Bleach, Gundam), Steve Staley (Naurto, Bleach, Gundom), Aaron Roberts (Tokyo Ghoul RE, Fire Force, Black Clover), Greg Dulcie (One Piece, Dragon Ball Super, Fullmetal Alchamest), and Eddie Frierson (Power Ranger, Street Fighter, Ace Combat 5). Mortal Kombat artist Paul E Neimeyer is also scheduled to appear at the event.
A unique feature of the convention is that a portion of the convention proceeds will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
AFSP’s website describes the charity as: “AFSP charity programs cover a broad range of topics related to prevention and support, and address the unique needs of multiple diverse populations and settings, including schools, communities, and systems. By understanding the real-world effects of these programs, AFSP ensures that we continue to make real change, and harness the collective energy and dedication of our staff, partners, and volunteers to have a positive impact on the world.”
Martin took some time to chat with me about the convention and the work with AFSP.
Chaoticon Promoter Interview
You are a husband-and-wife family-run business. How did the decision to go into business together come about, and how did the business start?
“Well, it initially started with my hobby, and I enjoyed it. She got more involved when we started to travel to comic cons and started to work together on the branding of Chaotic Empire.”
What made you decide to start your own convention?
“Well, the convention part was something we thought would be a good milestone and to help build our reputation. With us gaining a following in the industry, and never having anything this close to home, we thought, why not bring it to us?”
How did the partnership with AFSP come about?
“AFSP is a personal, heartfelt foundation. As my wife has lost her brother and I recently lost my cousin, we thought since this foundation speaks to both of us, why not try to donate in hopes it saves someone down the road.”
Anything in particular you have learned so far about convention planning?
“Convention planning isn't easy. So much stress and moving parts. It's more of a complicated game of Tetris with trying to make everything fit”
What can fans expect from the two days at the convention?
“We hope we can give fans a con experience with a budget. Our ticket prices are cheap, fans don't have to pay for parking, and all around get to meet awesome vendors and some amazing guests. After they get done at Chaoticon, they can go enjoy the lake life.”
Tickets, Vendor Applications and More
Vendor and sponsor spots are still available. You can purchase tickets and find out more about artist alley, vendor, sponsorship, and more ticket options here.
Are you planning on attending Chaoticon? Sound off in the comments below.
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