Dear Friend,

As we enter the month of Elul, a season of reflection and preparation for the Jewish New Year, I find myself reflecting on my own new beginning: my first month as Executive Director of the Good People Fund, after almost three years of being part of the professional team. It has been a joyful and energizing month. Some of the greatest highlights have been my meetings and coffee dates with our extraordinary grantees — hearing what they are seeing in their communities, learning more about the challenges they are tackling, and being reminded again and again of the creativity, compassion, and determination that define our Good People.

I’ve also loved settling into the rhythms of our small and mighty professional team. We are building a culture rooted in camaraderie, connection, curiosity, and a shared commitment to this work. There is something powerful about knowing that, even as our work stretches across communities and continents, we are connected by a common belief in what is possible when good people have the support they need to turn their ideas into action.

And soon, I’ll have the opportunity to experience some of that work firsthand. In November, I’ll be traveling to Israel with a small group for our Journey of Good, where we’ll meet inspiring changemakers addressing a range of challenges: food insecurity, trauma recovery, coexistence, and much more. I can’t wait to learn alongside those joining us and to see the impact of our Good People up close. There are a few spots left if you are interested in joining us.

Elul invites us not only to look back, but to consider where we are headed. One month into this role, I feel tremendous gratitude for all that has brought the Good People Fund to this moment — and excitement about what we will build together in the years ahead. Thank you for making this beautiful work of tzedakah possible! May we all find meaning and contentment in 5787.

Wishing you a meaningful Elul and a sweet new year,

Julie Fisher, Executive Director