Food & Friends’ beloved facility is named in memory of a young man who was both a volunteer and a client, William “Bill” Bresler. The son of Fleur and Charles Bresler, Bill lost his battle to AIDS in 2001.
In April of 2017, Food & Friends was thrilled to receive a $2 million gift commitment from Fleur, Sidney Bresler and Phyllis Bresler, and the Bresler Foundation, Inc. The multi-year gift allowed Food & Friends to vigorously invest in the growth of the organization in the form of expanded nutrition services and additional staffing.
In recognition of this transformational gift, Food & Friends’ state-of-the-art facility was named “The William P. Bresler Building” during a special ceremony on October 18th, 2017.
The family’s decision to name the building for a beloved family member reflects their devotion to their family and abiding commitment to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Bill’s sister Carol spoke at the building dedication:
“Each time I volunteer in the kitchen with my Mom, I am reminded of Bill. While I am saddened by what we have lost, I am inspired by the amazing staff, their boundless energy and enthusiasm for those in need. I know that his memory will stay alive through the tremendous work of Food & Friends and by this building that now carries his name. I am proud of our family for their commitment to Food & Friends in memory of Bill. This gift will ensure that the organization will remain strong for years to come and help so many others just like Bill.”
Food & Friends was proud to honor the entire Bresler family as the honoree of the 2017 Chef’s Best Dinner & Auction, our annual event. You can learn more about the family, Bill and their engagement with Food & Friends in this special video shown at the event.
Today, three generations of the Bresler family continue to help fulfill Food & Friends’ mission through volunteering, board leadership and philanthropy. Their individual and collective investments of time and resources touch the lives of thousands in our community, neighbors facing daunting illness often with little or no support.
We thank the Bresler family from the bottom of our hearts, and invite everyone in the community to visit us at the William P. Bresler Building!