THE PASSING OF HUMOUR FOUNDATION FOUNDER, DR PETER SPITZER

Commonwealth Bank is saddened by the passing of Dr Peter Spitzer, also known as Dr Fruit Loop, the founder of the Humour Foundation.

The Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund is a founding partner of the Clown Doctors, having partnered with the charity for over 16 years, commencing as a trial in Randwick Children’s hospital in 1998 and growing to be a national charity now working in every major children’s hospital in Australia.

Chairman of the Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund, David Cohen, shared his condolences with Dr Spitzer’s family, saying his passing had greatly saddened those who had worked closely with him throughout the long partnership between the Bank and the Humour Foundation.

“Dr Spitzer’s vision in establishing the Clown Doctors has contributed greatly to improving the life of many young Australians through their work in hospitals,” Mr Cohen said.

“He pioneered world first research projects to prove the beneficial impact of laughter to health and wellbeing and educated the national and international community about the importance of humour in our lives and indeed to our health. 

“The Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund is a proud supporter of the work Clown Doctors do to embody their motto, that ‘laughter is the best medicine’.

“I have no doubt the wonderful work Clown Doctors and the Humour Foundation do will continue to achieve great outcomes in Dr Spitzer’s memory,” he said.

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During the 2014 Financial Year, 11,400 Commonwealth Bank staff members donated to the Staff Community Fund, enabling $2 million in grants to be awarded to 238 grassroots organisations focussed on the health and wellbeing of Australian youth.

The Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund was formed in 1917 and is Australia’s longest running employee contribution program. Current and retired staff contribute to the Fund. All administrative costs for the Fund are met by the Bank, ensuring 100 per cent of funds raised go directly to youth charities. The Commonwealth Bank matches contributions made by staff dollar for dollar.