November 2010
The Jack Windeler Memorial Fund.
Even though Jack was unable to ask for help himself, he did ask, in his note, that others be helped.
Since his death, Jack’s family and friends have raised over $300,000 for the Jack Windeler Memorial Fund. This fund, which is administered by Kids Help Phone, will focus on youth mental health to:
- educate ‘emerging adults’ aged 16-20 as they transition from high school to college/university, and
- build a micro-site to counsel youth who are suffering, supported by Kids Help Phone counselors
We know that emerging adults like Jack have questions about mental health because 31% of those who reach out to Kids Help Phone are over 17 and mental health was the #1 reason both kids and youth contacted us in 2009. Our counsellors took calls and answered messages from those who felt hopeless, anxious and suicidal. Some had lost someone close to them, struggled with addiction, eating disorders and self-harm while others were coping with the stress related to moving away from home and anxiety about their future. For all of the kids out there who get in touch with us, there are many more who do not. One in five people struggle with mental health problems before the age of 18. Targeting this age group by continuing to make relevant information available in an anonymous and confidential way can have a life-saving impact on a young person. This is Jack’s legacy.
If you would like to donate to the Jack Windeler Memorial Fund click here.
LINKS
Jack’s dad Eric tells Jack’s story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwVLX3YgSpw
In memory of Jack Windeler Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=110191545675415
Mental Health Literacy: Kids in Canada Talk About Mental Health
Kids Help Phone Critical Issues Report
http://events.kidshelpphone.ca/flipbooks/Mental_Health_Full/index.html
