North Vancouver-based mental health organization Kaiser Foundation has announced that it will shut down operations March 31, in the wake of the January 11 death of foundation chairman and CEO, Edgar Kaiser Jr.
Kaiser, an entrepreneur and former owner of the Denver Broncos, formed the foundation in 1986 to promote a better understanding throughout Canada of the issues relating to addiction and mental health. Kaiser was recognized with the Order of British Columbia in 2003.
“The sudden loss of the organization’s founder Edgar Kaiser has dealt an irreparable blow to the viability of the Kaiser Foundation,” said Bill Wilkerson, foundation board director.
“Edgar raised the money, sustained the vision and oversaw daily operations, with the invaluable support of dedicated staff, volunteers and board of directors.”
Foundation vice-chair Hans Krutzen called the decision to shut down operations “very difficult.”
He said, “Without Edgar’s leadership, energy and powerful commitment it was felt that the operations of the foundation could not continue.”
Krutzen thanked the foundation’s “many supporters, partners and friends” for their continued support.
