A Letter from Jakub and Carolina Hejl

As humanity stands at a pivotal crossroads, faced with challenging decisions about the future we want to create and inhabit, we’re reminded to approach these challenges with humility, curiosity, and empathy.

It is in this spirit that we established our family foundation, and we are motivated to share the driving force behind our decision. Jakub and Carolina first met during their high school years at IMG Academies in Sarasota, FL. Fast forward to today, we are parents to three children and have made philanthropy a cornerstone of our family life, actively involving our kids in every facet of the foundation.

Our journey into philanthropy began with a simple desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Both of us grew up in modest circumstances deeply influenced by the journeys of our respective parents. Jakub, born in Prague, Czech Republic, but raised in the USA, was instilled with a resilient spirit and a profound appreciation for the opportunities brought by change, shaped by his parents’ encounters with communism. While Carolina, a first-generation American born to Polish immigrant parents, developed a deep respect for hard work and sacrifice.

By instilling values of empathy, compassion, and generosity in our children, we aim to create a legacy of positive change extending beyond our lifetimes. Our family foundation is more than a vehicle for giving; it embodies our commitment to building a better world across our four program areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Health, and Policy and Advocacy.

By involving our children in our foundation’s work, we aim to inspire them to become compassionate leaders. We believe that by empowering the next generation to become agents of change, we can create a ripple effect of positivity that spreads throughout society. Together, we can achieve great things and leave behind a legacy that transcends generations.

With warmest regards,

Jakub and Carolina Hejl