What's Happening?
The Good People Fund, a New Jersey-based grantmaker established in 2008, is now under the leadership of Executive Director Julie Fisher, who took over on July 1. The organization operates with a unique philanthropic model, described as 'venture capitalists
of the tzedakah world,' by identifying and supporting visionary changemakers in the early stages of their initiatives. This approach involves providing annual grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, often serving as the initial international funding for Israeli nonprofits. The fund also offers comprehensive 'wraparound support,' including mentoring, legal assistance for 501(c)(3) status, and financial guidance. Currently, The Good People Fund supports 62 grantees, with 27 located in Israel. Fisher, who previously lived in Israel as the spouse of the U.S. ambassador, emphasizes the fund's commitment to long-term relationships with its grantees, often extending support for three to ten years, rather than a typical three-year funding cycle.
Why It's Important?
This 'venture capitalist' model of philanthropy is significant because it addresses a critical gap in funding for emerging nonprofits, particularly those that may lack the established data or infrastructure to attract traditional donors. By investing in early-stage organizations and individuals, The Good People Fund enables innovative solutions to social challenges that might otherwise go unfunded. This approach is particularly impactful in Israel, where many small nonprofits struggle to secure initial international support. The fund's focus on supporting changemakers of any faith also provides a non-political avenue for donors to engage with and support initiatives in Israel, potentially bridging divides among Jewish families and foundations. The comprehensive support, beyond just financial grants, helps these nascent organizations build capacity and sustainability, fostering a more robust and diverse social sector.
What's Next?
The Good People Fund aims to expand its reach and identify more social visionaries, moving beyond its previous status as a 'best-kept secret.' This involves actively scouting for new changemakers who may not fit traditional philanthropic profiles. The organization also seeks to maintain its trust-based relationships with grantees while growing its resources, demonstrating the effectiveness of its time-tested model. The fund's continued focus on Israel, especially in the aftermath of events like October 7, highlights its role in providing immediate and ongoing support to vulnerable communities and organizations. The long-term vision includes retaining the personal, relationship-driven approach while increasing its capacity to support a wider array of emerging nonprofits, potentially serving as a bridge for younger Jewish philanthropists in America to connect with Israeli social initiatives.
Beyond the Headlines
The Good People Fund's model challenges conventional philanthropic practices by prioritizing the individual visionary and the potential impact over established metrics and extensive reporting. This approach fosters a more human-centered form of giving, where trust and personal relationships are paramount. It also highlights the ethical dimension of supporting organizations that are 'in the messy work of emerging nonprofits,' acknowledging that social innovation often begins without perfect data or formal structures. By providing foundational support, the fund not only helps individual organizations but also contributes to a broader cultural shift in philanthropy, encouraging a more agile and responsive approach to social problems. This model could inspire other funders to reconsider their criteria and embrace a more proactive, supportive role in nurturing nascent social enterprises, both domestically and internationally.
