Michael Hercules Wilfong,
aka “the Fong”

Mental health image. Various emotions represented by colorful crumpled paper ovea a gray head silhouette.

Michael, “the Fong,” suffered from mental health issues, which he was no longer able to overcome by himself. Tragically, he ended his life when he was not able to cope with these mental demons.

“You will meet no one else like him. Brilliant, brave, hilarious; a steadfast friend, a loving father. He was a rare and special person. He approached everyone with a heart open to the idea that a stranger is just a friend he’s never met. A great conversationalist because he could talk and listen. He was so smart and curious about the world and had something insightful to contribute on any topic, in any setting.

from the obituary
by Jeremy Storm

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WHY Fong Cares Foundation (FCF)

My son, Michael Hercules Wilfong, “the Fong” was a Clark County Public Defender for over 18 years who committed his talents towards legal representation of those in most need and least could afford the legal services. 
Tragically, like my son, the Clark County Public Defenders’ office has suffered significant loss of many public servants.

Lawyers, particularly those in public defense or criminal law, face extreme workloads, long hours, and high-pressure environments that can contribute to mental health challenges.  Below is a snapshot of the tragic picture for legal professionals (similar for 1st responders).

  • Depression: Lawyers suffer from depression; studies have shown that 28% of them have severe depression, and 19% have contemplated suicide during their careers.
  • Anxiety: Lawyers are more likely to experience anxiety; 19% report they suffer from anxiety, which is notably higher than the national average of 7% for adults.
  • Substance Abuse: Lawyers have a substance use rate of 21%, significantly higher than the national average of 10% 
  • Suicide Rates: Lawyers have higher suicide rates than those in other professions, with estimates suggesting that they are 1.33 times more likely to die by suicide compared to other professionals.  The national average is 18% for lawyers versus 14% for general population. 
  • Burnout: A study by the American Bar Association found that over 40% of lawyers report experiencing burnout.

Fong Cares Objectives

In memory of  Michael Hercules Wilfong, “the Fong,” this non-profit is being established to serve the community and promote awareness. Our principal objective is to provide financial support to community-based organizations to address mental health awareness and caregiving. An important goal is to serve as a another fund-raising organization in support of registered non-profit charities within the Southern Nevada community. All donations will be made in the name of Fong Cares Foundation.

Our mission at Fong Cares is to actively engage in promoting mental health awareness in the Southern Nevada community. Through sponsorship of educational opportunities, provision of associated scholarships, and financial support to established non-profit organizations, we aim to foster a community where mental health is prioritized and supported.

WHAT is FCF focus: Fundraising and Charitable Giving

Mental Health Disorders are a major worldwide crisis which is non-discriminate. The stresses of daily life and societal pressures have led to this crisis in mental health disorders and an increase in suicide that can impact people of all ages.

  • Our foundation relies on corporate sponsorships, individual donations as well federal, state, and local grants to sustain and expand our mental health initiatives
    • FCF conducts fundraising events to generate financial resources that directly support our programs and services.  Our planning is for two events in 2025.
  • Our charitable giving strategy prioritizes funding community-driven projects that align with our mission to enhance mental health and well-being.
    • By partnering with organizations dedicated to mental health advocacy, we will help to increase their resources and foster their long-term community mission.
  • Being a positive impact, the Fong Cares Foundation dedicates itself to increasing community awareness and education in the areas of mental health and well-being.