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The Good People Fund

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Tribe Talk

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As anti-Semitism grows throughout the world, many campuses have become microcosms of the very same virulence and intolerance – an increase of 86% over the past two years alone, according to the ADL. Together, Jude Sydney, Michelle Black and Robin Friedman have developed a comprehensive internet-based program that aggregates many resources, including partnering with existing organizations, using campus-specific ratings and student views, as well as a strong Israel education component developed by noted experts in the field. As the program grows, the founders hope that when deciding which college to attend, students will “Know Before They Go” to ensure a successful experience. Our funds underwrite start-up expenses including podcast production and website design and management.

Pittsburgh Interfaith Evolution

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On Shabbat morning, October 27, 2018, a deranged murderer walked into a Pittsburgh synagogue and killed eleven people, including Joyce Fienberg, a beloved member of the congregation. In response, Joyce’s daughter-in-law, Marnie Fienberg, vowed to find ways to combat the violence, hatred and anti-Semitism that inspired this tragedy.  Together with her friend, Lauren Kline, they began The Pittsburgh Interfaith Evolution Corporation, to build bridges of understanding between people of different faiths. P.I.E.’s signature program, 2 for Seder, encourages Jews to invite two guests who have never attended a Seder to join them, learn about Judaism and thereby gain greater understanding and mutual respect. The 2019 pilot program included participants from across the US and Canada.

With the arrival of COVID-19, the original 2 for Seder format was no longer possible, but P.I.E. lost no time in developing an ambitious plan to create podcasts and weekly newsletters that address other innovative ways to combat anti-Semitism. Our funds are used to underwrite website and technology costs.

Warehouse NJ

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It is difficult to maintain your dignity when you are homeless and living in a shelter or your car. For Kim Sleeman, founder of The Warehouse NJ, it was that sense of dignity that inspired her to begin collecting furniture, household goods, and decorative accessories for individuals and families receiving vouchers for Section 8 housing and the chance to begin a new life. Volunteers of all ages are indispensable to Kim’s operation as they deliver and put in place an apartment’s worth of furniture. She shares that “…witnessing the joy, amazement and wonder on each of our clients’ faces the day they see their new furnished home has been life changing for me.” Our matching funds provide for modest operating expenses including storage and truck rentals.

For Good PGH

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Braddock was once a thriving community in the heart of Pennsylvania’s steel industry. Today, this Pittsburgh suburb has fewer than 3,000 residents, most living well under federal poverty guidelines. Gisele Fetterman and Kristen Michaels have made it their business to promote “good” throughout their community, proving daily the rewards that can come from this attitude.

Free Store 15104 is an integral part of For Good’s programming. Brightly painted shipping containers provide residents with clothing, food, housewares, diapers and formula, much of it donated directly by manufacturers and local businesses. The sign posted outside the structures indicate exactly what drives the program: (1) Be kind (2) Take only what you need (3) Pay it forward.

The Hollander Project, begun in 2018, is housed in what was once Hollander Pharmacy. Today, the building is a co-working space for local entrepreneurial women, and also the site of community events and wellness initiatives. Additional programs include addressing gun violence and the needs of foster kids, as well as offering coding for girls and creating green spaces.

Our funds underwrite repairs to the Free Store 15104 trailers.

MARVA

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MARVA is a unique Israeli organization that uses a holistic approach in addressing the problems of maintaining quality of life and independence for both elders facing the challenges of aging and for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. The founders of MARVA, led by Dr. Michal Wosner and now directed by Dr. Mickey Schindler, have created a program that combines both legal and social welfare expertise to help with decision-making and regaining control over one’s life. Our funds are directed to general operating expenses.

Heart 2 Hart Detroit

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Every sandwich Larry Oleinick and his volunteers offer homeless and destitute people who call the area around Detroit’s Hart Plaza “home” comes with caring and friendly conversation. While the sandwich is important, “The greatest gift we offer those we assist is reassurance that they are not alone. With the 3 C’s—Conversation, Compassion and Consistency – we build relationships.” Many lives have been transformed by a connection that comes from the heart. Our funds underwrite general operating expenses as well as a second refrigerator which allows Larry to store donated food.