Helen Petty is a community leader and activist dedicated to social justice and inclusive advocacy. As the current board president of Ashrei, Helen plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to interrupt cycles of poverty and promote economic justice.

Helen's background is diverse and multifaceted. She is a mother, small business owner, and lifelong activist with a deep commitment to immigration rights, LGBTQIA+ advocacy, and reproductive justice. Her advocacy is rooted in the quote by Rabbi Tarfon “you are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it."

Previously, Helen served on the board of Central Reform Congregation, where she was instrumental in establishing the Refugee Resettlement Project, an initiative to resettle refugee families through direct private sponsorship. She also ran for alderwoman in her ward, aiming to bring her vision of inclusive governance to local politics.

In her professional life, Helen manages a small business, where her practical skills in problem-solving and strategic planning benefit her advocacy work.

Helen Petty’s work reflects her commitment to creating positive change and improving the community through dedicated leadership and advocacy.