Human Potential Foundation (HPF)

About Us

The Human Potential Foundation (HPF) is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to nurturing, inspiring, assisting, and discovering the potential in others since its founding in 1984 by Gerald Kessler. The foundation's core values are rooted in the belief that every individual has the capacity to maximize their potential and achieve their limitless abilities through caring, kindness, generosity, hard work, and a focus on family.

HPF's mission is to empower individuals and communities to unlock their full potential by providing support, resources, and opportunities for growth and development, as well as self-help, to ensure that the foundation not only provides a hand-out but also a leg-up. This includes offering scholarships for students and scholars with outstanding academic achievements and community service accomplishments. The foundation also aims to raise awareness about mental health, spirituality, self-rehabilitation, and the importance of becoming productive citizens in society.

The foundation operates with unwavering integrity and generosity, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to the causes and individuals they serve. This commitment to transparency and accountability has earned HPF recognition and respect from numerous organizations, including The School House, Smithtown Kickers, Tristin's Wish, Hope House Ministries, Smithtown Children's Foundation, Jesus at the Door (JAD), and Kings Army (KA).

HPF's journey began with a retreat center in California, which served as a hub for personal growth, reflection, and community building. However, due to the center's location in a high fire zone and the challenges posed by distance, HPF made the difficult decision to sell the property. This transition marked a new chapter in the foundation's history, as they shifted their focus to fundraising and local outreach efforts in New York and Florida, with plans to expand nationwide in the near future.

HPF's core activities revolve around organizing and hosting several annual fundraising events, each designed to bring people together in the spirit of giving and community. These events include golf outings, runs, wine tastings, and a multitude of other activities, which not only raise critical funds for the foundation's initiatives but also provide opportunities for individuals to connect, share their stories, and inspire one another. Participants enjoy a day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and the satisfaction of knowing that their involvement directly supports HPF's mission.

The golf outing, held once in New York, attracted golf enthusiasts who are passionate about making a difference. HPF also sponsors runs, such as the Smithtown Kickers Annual Turkey Trot, held annually on Thanksgiving morning.

At HPF's fundraising events, OneHope Foundation sponsors and donates back to HPF the wine tasting for the attendees. All the wines are from renowned Napa Valley, California, and OneHope Foundation was recently named a 2021 Wine Enthusiast 40 under 40 tastemaker in the beverage industry.

Through their partnership with HPF, Smithtown Kickers has been able to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for young athletes, regardless of their financial background, by providing funding for equipment, scholarships, and training programs.

Tristin's Wish, another organization close to HPF's heart, is dedicated to supporting families in need. Through their collaboration with HPF, Tristin's Wish has been able to bring joy, hope, and unforgettable experiences to countless families during challenging times.

The Smithtown Children's Foundation focuses on providing financial and emotional support to local Smithtown children and families in need.

Jesus at the Door (JAD) is an organization that aims to make evangelism easy for Christians. They provide a practical resource to lead people into a relationship with Jesus in the context of their everyday lives.

At the heart of HPF's success and impact are the dedicated individuals who guide and govern the foundation. Mary Gibbons, the Lead Head Trustee, brings a wealth of experience, passion, and vision to her role. Working alongside Mary are co-trustees James Gibbons and Jim Gibbons, as well as numerous volunteers, family members, friends, and caring individuals whose commitment to the foundation's mission is unwavering.

As HPF looks to the future, its goal is to continue expanding its reach, deepening its partnerships, and finding new and innovative ways to support individuals and communities in need. The foundation remains committed to hosting several annual fundraising events and providing scholarships, academic equipment like computers, laptops, and tablets, and emotional support to those who need it most.

HPF recognizes that investing in the next generation is critical to building strong, resilient communities and creating a brighter future for all. By providing young people with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed, HPF hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders who will carry forward the foundation's mission and values.

The foundation also understands that unlocking human potential requires more than just physical resources and opportunities; it also requires emotional and psychological support. By partnering with mental health professionals, community organizations, and other experts in the field, HPF aims to provide a comprehensive network of support services that can help individuals overcome personal challenges and achieve their full potential.

Ultimately, the Human Potential Foundation's vision is one of a world where every individual has the opportunity to discover and unleash their unique gifts and talents. A world where generosity, kindness, empathy, integrity, and a focus on family are the guiding principles that shape our communities and our lives.

Through its unwavering commitment to this vision, HPF will continue to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and communities. And as the foundation grows and evolves, it will remain steadfast in its belief that by working together and making a meaningful difference in the right way, we can create a long-lasting impact and unlock the limitless potential that lies within each and every one of us.