November 2025

I recently read of the death this month of Jane Goodall, the renowned scientist, primatologist and conservationist. I realized how much her life reflected our work as we and our grantees seek to meet increasing needs in a struggling world.

Goodall believed that every person is on this earth for a reason and that we have the power to act and make change.

When the planet is dark, there still is hope. Don’t lose hope. If you lose hope, you become apathetic and do nothing. And if you want to save what is still beautiful in this world… then think about the actions you take each day. Because, multiplied a million, a billion times, even small actions will make for great change.

Goodall articulates perfectly what GPF believes, and what we express in our tagline — “Small actions, huge impacts.” These are words of hope when it seems to be in such short supply.

Along these lines, this month’s episode of our podcast—Good People Talk—features my interview with Rutie Pilz-Burstein, who used her experience as head of Israel’s famed Wingate Sports Institute to create Sport – Bridge to Education, a GPF grantee. Rutie understands that sports can be a therapeutic tool to help youth not succeeding in traditional educational and social environments. Her stories are inspiring and remind us there are many ways to save a life. Please listen and share.

Finally and importantly… Ten years ago, GPF was desperately seeking an enthusiastic, detail-oriented person who loved what we do and would be happy to work crazy hours in a fast-paced environment. When a friend suggested she knew the perfect person and her last name is “Good,” I thought she must be kidding.

Andrea Good, our indomitable Director of Operations, is that person and we could not be happier to celebrate ten years of having her on our team. Congratulations, Andrea!

With Thanksgiving only four weeks away, we know that despite the chaos surrounding us, there is still much to be thankful for. With your help, we are offering hope and more to others.

Naomi