About Us
About Our Fund
Our mission is to support innovative initiatives aligned with the causes and issues to which Helen devoted her passion. In honor of her legacy and the values she held dear, our fund provides assistance for the dreamers and innovators pursuing new and imaginative ventures in the greater Atlanta community.
Our Fund's Vision
Meaningful Impact
One Life Lived, Many Lives Touched
A letter from our Trustee, Deborah Levinson
One life lived, many lives touched
When I think of my beloved friend Helen, a quote comes to mind which encompasses her essence: “One life lived, many lives touched”.
The daughter of Marjorie and Samuel Stern, Helen lived her entire life in Atlanta and cherished being a part of our Jewish community. Growing up, Helen attended religious school at The Temple. The Jewish values that she learned at The Temple, and at home, guided her throughout her lifetime. Helen lived selflessly, spending each day thinking of others and striving to do tikkun olam, repairing the world.
While Helen professionally pursued a career in banking, her free time was filled with community service and cultural pursuits. She was actively involved in several local organizations, but closest to her heart was the Brandeis National Committee and Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. Helen spent many years on the film festival selection committee and the annual Film Festival was a highlight of her year. Curiosity and love of learning led her to continue her Jewish education as an adult and she enrolled in the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning. Helen was also an avid crafter and known for her beautiful handiwork. Another of Helen’s favorite pursuits was exploring Buford Highway’s many ethnic restaurants and she inherited a love of cooking from her mother. If I list Helen’s favorite things, I cannot forget her love of animals, particularly dogs. Jojo, Tank, Beowulf and Naomi received endless love, treats and toys from her.
Most important to Helen was time spent with family and friends. After losing her parents, she treasured visits with her local cousins and many friends. While she did not have children of her own, Helen took a special interest in the children of her close friends and she became a favorite honorary aunt. Her unconditional love and acceptance of these children was the foundation of many treasured relationships.
Helen had the rare ability to relate to people of all ages and backgrounds. If I had to describe her in one word, it would be a connector. Although her life was cut short, and she is no longer with us to make her unique impact, Helen’s wish was that her resources be used creatively and imaginatively in our community. Helen’s Fund is a living testament to a fearless woman dedicated to making the world a better place.