Our Founder
Kari Alterman
Kari Alterman is a passionate philanthropic advisor and connector, known for her ability to match people with meaningful causes in ways that bring mutual benefit, purpose, and joy. As the founder of Good Name Advisors, she partners with individuals and families to clarify their values, elevate their giving, and preserve their good name through thoughtful, lasting philanthropy.
Kari brings a unique blend of deep experience, personal warmth, and strategic insight to her work. She spent nearly a decade at the William Davidson Foundation, where she led the Jewish portfolio for eight years before serving as Director of External Affairs and Senior Advisor. Her career also includes leadership roles at the American Jewish Committee (as Detroit Regional Director) and Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, where she concluded an 11-year tenure as Director of Leadership Development.
Kari is known not only for her expertise in philanthropy, but for her intuitive ability to read people—what drives them, what excites them—and connect them to organizations and opportunities that align. Her extensive network across the Jewish, philanthropic, and civic landscapes allows her to open doors, make strategic introductions, and guide clients with both insight and care.
A graduate of the University of Michigan, Kari holds a BA in History, an MSW, and a Certificate in Jewish Communal Service. She is also a 21/64© Certified Philanthropic Advisor.
In her volunteer life, Kari proudly serves on the boards of OneTable, Clover Hill Park Cemetery, and The Zekelman Holocaust Center, where she is also an active second-generation speaker. She is a founding member and former executive committee member of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, and a past board member of JPRO.
Kari’s work is rooted in the belief that a good name—built through acts of generosity, kindness, and purpose—is the most meaningful legacy we can leave.
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Send me a message, and tell me more about your philanthropic goals and needs. I will get back to you soon to schedule a consultation.
Good Name Advisors
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
