Life & Work with Rachel Wasserman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Wasserman.

Rachel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta was founded ten years ago with the desire to address gender inequality in the Jewish community here in Atlanta, throughout the country, and internationally while also giving women the opportunity to take a hands-on approach to their philanthropy. I joined the organization a few months after it launched, moving to Atlanta from New York City and bringing with me a background in grantwriting and program evaluation. Back then, I don’t think any of us could have imagined we’d grow in the ways we have.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
They say “slow and steady wins the race,” and I think that applies to the work of Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta. Since day one, we have been very deliberate in our growth and development. Has it always been a smooth road? No. I don’t think it ever is when women assert their power and desire for equality. However, we have had the perseverance, vision, and strength to keep moving forward, knowing we were working toward a bigger purpose and goal. We have worked together – both professionals and volunteers – to keep lifting each other up and advancing our mission.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As Executive Director, I wear a lot of hats and have my hand in everything Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta is doing. Our work is deeply centered around elevating women’s voices, increasing opportunities, forming connections, and making social change happen in ways that leads to equality and equity for women and girls.

I am most proud in the moments where I see examples of how our work has changed lives. Hearing from organizations who have been greatly impacted by our grant dollars; witnessing stories of legislation being passed, policies being adopted, and doors being opened; and listening to women who soared to heights they never imagined reminds me why I am in this field.

I get to wake up every day and help women. What could be better than that?!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: jwfatlanta.org
• Instagram: @jwfatlanta
• Facebook: facebook.com/jwfatlanta