When Sue Levy-Polikoff learned about Impact100 through Facebook posts from other members, she knew this was exactly the type of philanthropic giving she was searching for. That drove Sue to attend a 2019 membership information session at the Ronald McDonald House to learn more about it. The love and commitment to making a difference was palpable in that room and Sue just knew this was something she had to do. She joined in 2020. “The business model is so innovative; taking the power of each charity-minded individual and making them into a 200-women powerhouse that provides such a greater impact to fabulous causes compelled me to join.”
Its cliché, but Sue finds every aspect of Impact100 SJ rewarding. She was an event planner for a large nonprofit so naturally her first involvement was with the events committee. She had always been curious about grants and reviews, so she then joined the grant review committee for the Education focus area. Sue has always found the brainstorming, discussions, and strategies extremely interesting and knew it was broadening her knowledge.
Sue was so flattered when asked to sit on the Impact100 SJ’s Leadership Council. She also took an interest in the Non-Profit Outreach committee to bridge the connection with Impact100’s grantees, and this year Sue is co-chairing the committee. Every time she gains knowledge and experience, it excites her as it provides the opportunity to do more!
Charitable giving has always been a foundation in Sue’s life. “My wonderful parents have instilled in me the belief that it’s not just about how much you give, but how much love you put into the giving.” Her mission is to be of service to as many as she can and Sue knows that Impact100 SJ gives her that unique opportunity. In college, Sue donated to Save the Children and was assigned a pen pal. “It was so invigorating to have an ongoing dialogue with a stranger and read first-hand how something so simple I did could positively impact someone’s life.” That had a lasting effect on Sue and changed how she wanted to make a difference. Two years ago, Sue took her love of practicing yoga to the next level and got certified to become an instructor. She may be most known for teaching Alpaca yoga at a local farm, but Sue’s most rewarding classes are the ones she does for people living with Parkinson’s disease and the chair yoga classes she teaches for seniors. Seeing the actual difference her time and energy makes is incredibly rewarding and drives her to find ways to do more.
Sue and her husband Gary have been married for 25 years and have 3 children. They live in Cherry Hill and enjoy travel, going out to dinner, movies and going to the shore together.