The Minnesota-based Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has announced an $8 million gift from the estate of Max E. and Joyce S. Wildman.

The largest single philanthropic gift in the foundation’s history will bolster Hazelden’s care for individuals and the whole family while helping advance the organization’s research, education, prevention, and advocacy efforts. The foundation focuses on substance use disorder treatment, mental health care, recovery resources, and related prevention and education services. The gift comes amid record-high overdoses and rising alcohol-related deaths nationwide, as well as escalating mental health concerns on the tail of the pandemic.

“A gift of this kind from generous benefactors who plan ahead to make a difference illustrates true dedication and commitment to the life-changing transformations that happen at Hazelden Betty Ford each day and will help us empower recovery and well-being for all,” said chief development officer Moira McGinley.

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Katarzyna Bialasiewicz)