Sign In

Eric Windeler

Founder, Jack.org

Eric Windeler is the founder of Jack.org, a Canadian non-profit organization focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention. In March 2010, his life changed dramatically when he lost his son Jack to suicide at the age of 18.1 Driven by his son's final wish to help others, Eric and his wife Sandra Hanington founded The Jack Project (later renamed Jack.org) in April 2010.13

Professional Background and Achievements:

  • Left his software company to work on Jack.org full-time1
  • Led Jack.org to become a national youth mental health organization with:
    • Over 150 active chapters across Canadian schools
    • More than 80 trained Jack Talks speakers
    • Annual national youth mental health summit in Toronto1

Recognition and Awards: Eric has received numerous honors for his mental health advocacy, including:

  • Champion of Mental Health award from CAMIHI (2013)
  • Queen's University honorary degree (2015)
  • Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division) (2017)
  • One of 150 CAMH Difference Makers for mental health in Canada
  • 2018 Queen's Alumni Humanitarian of the Year
  • 2020 Ontario Psychiatric Association's Mental Health Advocate of the Year4

Recent Transition: In 2022, Eric began transitioning from Executive Director to a "Founder" role, with plans to continue supporting Jack.org's mission of youth mental health support.2

Related Questions

What inspired Eric Windeler to start Jack.org after his son's passing?
How has Jack.org evolved since its founding in 2010?
What are the main programs offered by Jack.org today?
How has Eric Windeler's leadership impacted Jack.org's growth?
What is the significance of the Jack Ride program?
Eric Windeler
Eric Windeler, photo 1
Eric Windeler, photo 2
Add to my network

Location

Toronto, Ontario, Canada