About the Goldfinch Foundation

A yellow bird with black and white markings perched on a thin brown branch with a blurred green background.

The Goldfinch Foundation (GFF) was founded in memory of Owen Willers—an 18-year-old artist, athlete, leader, and beloved son who struggled with mental illness. Following Owen’s unexpected passing in 2024, his family was visited by a bright yellow goldfinch—a symbol of joy, resilience, and spiritual connection. This moment inspired the creation of GFF.

Owen’s story, his values, and his artwork left a roadmap that now guides our mission: to champion mental wellness, build community, and encourage a culture rooted in vulnerability, connection, and purpose.

Black and white portrait of a young man (Owen Willers) with curly hair smiling, wearing a Patagonia jacket, sitting against a plain background.

A Message from the Founder

Dr. Elisabeth Willers MD is Owen’s mother and the founder of the Goldfinch Foundation. A physician specializing in pulmonary and critical care, Liz has dedicated her life to healing others. In the wake of her son’s death, she’s finding a new purpose—one that combines her medical expertise with her lived experience as a grieving mother.

Her journey is one of loss, reflection, and rebuilding—much like the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where broken pottery is mended with gold.

A group of people gathered outdoors in the evening, sitting in a circle under string lights, engaging in a discussion or group activity on a lawn surrounded by trees and a fence.

Meet Owen

Owen Willers was deeply kind, insightful, and artistic. He was known for his character, integrity, and humor—and he had a heart for those on the margins. Through his AP Art portfolio, “The Mental Health of Teens,” Owen courageously explored the struggles that many young people face today.

Though he excelled in many areas, Owen also lived with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia. His story is a powerful and honest lens into what many young people are silently carrying.

A smiling middle-aged woman with shoulder-length gray hair, wearing a dark green button-up shirt and gold jewelry, standing against a plain white background.

Our Mission

We believe everyone deserves the knowledge and support to live a mentally well life. Through education, safe spaces, and community-led initiatives, the Goldfinch Foundation helps people—especially youth—step away from isolation, engage in real connection, and find strength in vulnerability.

It’s time for a cultural shift. Let’s create the world Owen dreamed of.

Make a difference today.

Your gift helps us spark change, support mental wellness, and carry Owen’s light forward.