1996 - 2026
30 Years of idealist.org
What started as a simple idea to connect people with opportunities for action has grown into a global platform dedicated to social impact.
Celebrate our 30th anniversary by learning how Idealist started, and how you can be part of our future.
On this page
How We Started
From a small website launched in 1996 to a global platform for good, idealist.org has grown alongside the communities we serve. Thirty years in, our mission hasn’t changed: we are still dedicated to building a world where everyone can live a life of meaning and impact.
Read our Executive Director Ami Dar’s story of where we’ve been, and discover stories from the people who have joined us along the way below.
Simone Jenifer
Cornell University
"I awoke this morning thinking, "boy, I love Idealist." I used Idealist many years ago to find the two best jobs of my career."
Fresh out of grad school, Simone landed a designer role at the American College of Nurse-Midwives. She spent three years as part of a tiny and dynamic team of three who supported their communications and became lifelong friends with many of her colleagues. Then, Simone used Idealist to land her next gig at a local community foundation.
"I love that Idealist has tools, filters, and ready content about the companies that advertise on the site. Over the years, I have had opportunities to mentor others, and also to share Idealist as a resource for my own interns and peers who want to find work with purpose."
Where We're Going
For the next thirty years of Idealist and beyond, we’re going back to our roots. We’ll continue to be the platform you can turn to for social-impact opportunities, but we’re committed to providing more of Idealist’s community with the resources and inspiration they need to start taking action now.
Give $30 for 30 Years of Idealist
Celebrate 30 years of impact with us by investing in what comes next. Your gift helps us continue connecting people to opportunities that create real change around the world.

Rose Tatum, CVA
The Volunteer Leadership Lab
Stephan Ferreira
Portland Tennis & Education
Simone Jenifer
Cornell University