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Category: Kinzler Events

Kinzler Teams Participated in the 2023 Amway RiverBank Run

The RiverBank Run is a bittersweet event for the Kinzler Foundation as it was, in essence, the catalyst for our founding. In 2011, Jason Kinzler, beloved husband, father, friend, and GVSU Hall of Fame athlete, died one mile short of the RBR finish line due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Jason’s wife Kristi and several of their closest friends founded this organization to help families facing what Kristi faced- suddenly being the sole provider/caregiver for young children- though without the resources she had. Since our founding, the Kinzler Foundation has empowered close to 250 West Michigan families to move forward after sudden loss by providing short-term financial assistance for basic family needs and by connecting families to existing community resources for longer-term support.

Hannah Kinzler, now a senior at Michigan State, ran the race again this year with a team from F45 studio in east Lansing. A team of Kinzler Board members and assisted families also participated in the 5K walk.

2023 Riverbank Run Gallery

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To donate to our team in support of the Kinzler Foundation’s mission to assist local families maintain stability during crisis, please click here.

Kinzler Family First Thanks the Brian Reiffer Addiction Awareness 5k For Supporting Our Mission

The Kinzler Family First Foundation would like to thank the Brian Reiffer Addiction Awareness 5K for their support this past weekend! Events like this one are a big reason Kinzler is able to help so many families in West Michigan, and we cannot thank them enough for helping us with our mission!

Hosted by Max Effort, the Brian Reiffer Addiction Awareness 5K run/walk’s objective was to raise awareness related to addiction and overdose, raising money to support local agencies and families impacted by addiction. All proceeds from the event went on to support the children of Brian Reiffer, and the Kinzler Family First Foundation.

Ray Duimstra attended this event on our behalf, setting up and operating an informational booth. Take a look at some photos of Ray with friends and relatives of Brian at the race below!

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About Brian Reiffer

Brian Reiffer was a well-known and loved Caledonia community member. Brian lost his battle with opioid addiction in July of 2021 leaving behind 4 young children. After Brian’s death, his family was supported by the Jason Kinzler Family First Foundation. This foundation gives support and financial assistance to families, with minor children, who have experienced the unexpected loss of a parent and/or primary caregiver. This event will not only provide financial support but also create an opportunity to share life-saving information related to addiction and overdose. For more information about this event, click here.