Bernstein Family Foundation

What seeds are you planting today that will reap the greatest good for tomorrow?

"I see our Washington D.C. as a dynamic entrepreneurial and imaginative place with enormous amounts of creativity and innovation. As our nation's Capital, where major decisions are made and everyone's looking to us, we can make a difference." - Ami Becker Aronson, Executive Director of the Bernstein Family Foundation.

What drives you to make a difference?

We're privileged to help support the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

Its newest exhibition, “Tatter, Bristle, and Mend”, is artist Sonya Clark's dedication to family and her African American heritage, created with a divine touch.

Take a look at some photos from this exhibit:

Divine Touch in Tatter, Bristle, and Mend | Broad Strokes Blog | NMWA Howard University Associate Professor Dr. Gwendolyn Everett considers Sonya Clark’s beadwork and the material’s function as an ancestral bond among African Americans and the African diaspora.

We can't solve the world's greatest challenges without diversity.

Learn how Johns Hopkins University and Bloomberg Philanthropies are teaming up to "prepare a new, more diverse generation of researchers and scholars to assume leadership roles in tackling some of the world’s greatest challenges."

Read all about it:

Johns Hopkins University and Bloomberg Philanthropies Announce the Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative, a $150 Million Effort to Fuel Diversity in STEM Fields | Bloomberg Philanthropies Johns Hopkins University and Bloomberg Philanthropies announced the launch of the Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative devoted to addressing historic underrepresentation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, and preparing a new, more diverse generation of researchers and scholars...

In our nearly 70-year history, we've supported innumerable causes that fall under the umbrella of our mission and beliefs.

Restoring the National Mall. Moving Ken Burns' documentaries about American democracy into a digital format. Supporting Sasha Bruce Youthwork, the only homeless shelter for runaway youth in DC.

We give from our hearts - from a place of authenticity and humanity.

Follow along for more stories from our grantees and the incredible work they're doing.

The traditional model of leadership is falling away. Modern leaders believe that a better, more sustainable future cannot be obtained by just focusing on the bottom line.

Purpose and people come first - the profits will follow.

That means our thinking needs to evolve. Businesses can be a force for good if leaders are willing to make this fundamental shift.

Read the full article from Harvard Business Review:

How to Lead in the Stakeholder Era Focus on purpose and people. The profits will follow.

"Inspiration is a human right that belongs to us all."

The Reach at the The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a vibrant, interactive arts and culture destination. We're so proud to support its mission and vision.

Not able to visit anytime soon? You can take a virtual tour online:

Explore the REACH | The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing arts The Welcome Pavilion is the main entry to all other spaces at the REACH. Located on Level A, the Welcome Pavilion boasts massive clear and frosted glass windows, including one that is etched with a quote from President Kennedy. The expansive lobby is home to a reception desk, comfortable lounges des...

Leo Bernstein was born in 1915 in the heart of Washington D.C. His career was built in real estate and banking, leading to financial stability and success.

Leo was also a visionary and a generous man. In 1952, he created a foundation so he could give to his most beloved causes: American democracy, arts and culture, and Jewish causes.

What began as a simple, one-man affair quickly grew to include his three children and seven grandchildren. His dream was to set up this foundation so future generations could be part of the magic of philanthropy.

Thank you for following our story. Learn more about our foundation's history on our website: https://bernsteinfamilyfoundationdc.org/about-the-foundation/our-history/

Join us in remembering the sacrifices of those who died in the defense of democracy.

May their legacy never be forgotten.

"Inclusive investing" is a VC approach we wholeheartedly support.

Read more about it from an organization that's doing it right:

Inclusive Investing — Zeal Capital Partners Inclusive Investing is Zeal’s investment strategy, core differentiator, and unique perspective on how we seek to bridge America’s Wealth and Skills gap by partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs focused on building companies in the Financial Technology and Future of Work sectors.