The Evan 47 Foundation was created in loving memory of Evan Taksar Levental, a beloved daughter, sister, friend, wife, and advocate. The number “47” is a reference to Evan’s birthdate, April 7th, but has come to represent much more on a deeper spiritual level - representing a sort of sign that Evan is near.

Evan was born and raised in Los Angeles, where her vibrant spirit and insatiable curiosity set her apart. She was a true lover of music, pop culture, and always had her nose in the news. From the latest celebrity gossip to the most current political debates, Evan was always aware of what was going on with the world and eager to engage with it. She was never content to be a passive observer. Instead, Evan sought to be an active participant in the causes that mattered most to her, and this drive was a defining feature of her life.

Evan got her undergraduate degree at University of Colorado Boulder, where she not only met her future husband, Misha, but where her love for the Jewish community blossomed. At CU Boulder, Evan became deeply involved with Hillel, a Jewish student organization that would later become a central part of her professional and personal life. Years later, after securing a double Masters from Brandeis University, Evan returned to the Hillel community, this time as Associate Director of Hillel818, where she would continue to impact the lives of young Jewish adults and students from all different backgrounds.

Evan’s legacy lives on through her devoted family, friends and colleagues who continue to honor her memory and the bright passionate life she lead. The Evan 47 Foundation is dedicated to carrying forward her zeal for life, her commitment to social justice, and her deep care for those in need.

Our mission is to help improve the lives of underserved college students and young adults (ages 18-38) through programs and strategic partnerships with other charitable agencies.  Targeted agencies will include those serving Jewish communities and other secular groups, both locally and nationwide, who provide resources, support and overall assistance with mental health, nourishment and social services.

Through these collaborations, the Evan 47 Foundation aims to improve the lives of young people who face adversity, just as Evan sought to make a positive difference in the world. By honoring Evan’s spirit and vision, the Evan 47 Foundation carries her legacy forward, ensuring her passion for life, her commitment to community, and her drive to create a future live on through the work we do.