Welcome to Generous Impact with Bret and Amanda Brummitt. In this episode, they sit down with their longtime friend Adama Iwu, who brings over two decades of experience in government affairs. Adama shares invaluable insights on how engaging with politics at the local level and being an informed voter can significantly impact your community and the nation.

Adama details her journey from starting as a fellow in the Schwarzenegger administration to becoming a lobbyist for a large financial services company. She discusses the importance of civic engagement, the various dimensions it encompasses, and practical ways to get involved.

They explore the necessity of voting, the influence of local elections, and how outside money can shape local politics. Adama also provides tips on trustworthy news sources, tracking campaign finance, and the importance of having a voting plan. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.

Election Assistance Committee to help at the polls: https://www.eac.gov/help-america-vote

Vote Forward to write letters to voters to encourage election turnout: http://votefwd.org/

We are joined today by Andi Gillentine, Vice President of the Board for Gazelle Foundation and Plan Chief Operating Officer at Fidelis Care. In this episode, you'll hear how Gazelle Foundation is bringing clean water to the people of Burundi.

Andi shares her personal and professional background, highlighting her journey from Texas to New York, and her extensive experience in healthcare and public health. She explains how she first became involved with the Gazelle Foundation through a transformative encounter with its founder, Gilbert, a genocide survivor from Burundi.

We delve into the impactful work of the Gazelle Foundation, which has built 70 water systems in Burundi, providing clean water to over 100,000 people. Andi discusses the profound health and educational benefits of clean water, including reduced infant mortality rates and improved opportunities for young women.

Andi emphasizes the importance of clean water for public health and shares her vision for the foundation's future. She also draws parallels between her work in healthcare and the foundation's mission, highlighting the role of health equity in both areas.

If you're in the Austin area, consider participating in the Run for the Water event on November 3rd to support their mission. Learn more about their work and how you can contribute at GazelleFoundation.org.

Welcome to Generous Impact. In this episode, Bret and Amanda Brummitt are joined by Ira Kaufman, a rabbi, social worker, and healthcare executive. Instead of focusing on a single organization, this episode delves into how Ira spends his life serving his community in various impactful ways.

Ira shares his journey from New Jersey to Cincinnati, exploring his background in rabbinical school, social work, and healthcare. Amanda discusses his work with Halcyon IV and how their approach to caring for people with dignity and hope left a lasting impression. The conversation reveals how Ira's dedication to meeting the needs of his community has shaped his life and that of his family, who are all deeply involved in community service.

The episode highlights several of Ira's initiatives, including the Bikur Cholim of Cincinnati, which provides kosher meals and support to hospital patients, and the soon-to-be-launched volunteer emergency medical service service, Hatzalah of Cincinnati. Additionally, Ira talks about his involvement with the local Burial Society and ritual baths. Other organizations where Ira humbly spends his time include Congregation Zichron Eliezer, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and Mesivta of Cincinnati.

They also discuss that having a healthy business while also doing good is possible. Really caring for the team is vital and Ira mentioned the book Patients Come Second by Britt Berrett and Paul Spiegelman that really inspired him. And, small world moment. Amanda had the joy of working for Britt earlier in her career!

Ira also offers valuable insights on balancing a demanding career with a commitment to community service, emphasizing the importance of seeing the beauty in others and fostering a supportive work environment. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have through dedication, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others.

It’s a family affair in the Kaufman household with the whole family giving back to the community from meal prep to transportation to just being there for people. We hope you’ll be inspired to be there and care for your own community and see the beauty in other people.