A Legacy of Giving: Etta Raye Hirsch

April 06, 2026

A Legacy of Giving: Etta Raye Hirsch

As we reach a milestone in our Growth, Innovation & Durability Campaign, the investment of our donors is not only shaping our present, but our long-term future. Among those donors is Etta Raye Hirsch, whose family foundation made a transformational $3 million gift to the campaign, part of more than $8.4 million raised to date.

For Etta Raye, giving back is how she was raised. While her family was not of means, they believed in helping others whenever possible. For as long as she can remember, her family modeled generosity, sharing what they could and stepping in when others were in need. That mindset became a guiding principle.

That generosity of spirit extends across generations. Etta Raye’s family are prolific supporters of the Jewish community in Atlanta, and at JF&CS, they have made a meaningful investment in mental health. Her son and daughter-in-law, David and Michele Hirsch, created the Peaceful Family Fund (PFF) in partnership with the Jewish Interest-Free Loan of Atlanta. The fund provides vital financial support to families in need of intensive mental health care for their children, services that are often financially out of reach.

“You do what you can, with what you have,” said Etta Raye. “Everyone can give something, whether it’s your time, your talent, or your treasure.”

Etta Raye’s support of the GID Campaign reflects her confidence in the work we do for people of all ages. The endowment is creating a foundation that not only sustains current programs, but also allows for innovation and flexibility as community needs evolve. Donors like Etta Raye are central to that vision.

“This milestone reflects both extraordinary generosity from our donors and a shared commitment to long-term impact,” said Amanda La Kier, Chief Advancement Officer. “Together, we are building the durable foundation JF&CS needs to serve this community today and for generations to come.”

As we look ahead to a long-term endowment goal of $30 million and beyond, Etta Raye’s values of generosity, responsibility, and commitment to community remain at the very heart of our progress. To learn more about how to support our Growth, Innovation & Durability Campaign, please contact Amanda at alakier@jfcsatl.org