Mrs. Elizabeth “Shira Malka” Walder
Mrs. Elizabeth “Shira Malka” guides the strategic focus and benevolent giving of the Walder Foundation. Over the past five years, the Walder Foundation has supported the Hinda Institute’s Education and Reentry programs, enabling us to help the formerly incarcerated reintegrate into family, work, and society.Through the work of the Walder Foundation, Elizabeth champions the vibrant potential of Chicago and to uplift local communities. The Foundation is a culmination of five areas of passionate interest: science innovation, environmental sustainability, the performing arts, migration and immigrant communities, and Jewish life. Elizabeth directs the development of the Foundation’s strategies in each of these areas. Central to every initiative are the Walder tenets of humility, optimism, unity, collaboration, a trust in G‑d’s plan, and a commitment to give back. As an immigration lawyer herself, Elizabeth helped clients navigate the US immigration system, including many artists and scientists who wished to immigrate to realize their potential in America.
Elizabeth experienced several challenges in life that engendered her devotion to charitable causes. She exhibits a compassionate, non-judgmental attitude toward those less fortunate.