This report examines the political and philanthropic contributions of the Fisher family, specifically those identified as the founders of Gap Inc. and Pisces Inc. (the family’s private investment firm). While the name “Myrleen Fisher” appears in public records as a local activist in Monterey, California, the description provided in the context (Gap Inc./Pisces Inc. founders; associated with the Koret Foundation and Birthright Israel) refers to the Fisher family of San Francisco, led by founders Donald and Doris Fisher and their descendants.
Contributor Report: Fisher, Myrleen
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Identity and Corporate Background
The Fisher family, founders of Gap Inc., manages its extensive philanthropic and political activities through Pisces Inc., a family office and investment firm based in San Francisco [1.9 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation), 1.16].
- Donald Fisher (d. 2009) and Doris Fisher: Co-founded Gap Inc. in 1969. Donald Fisher served as chairman of the board and was a significant figure in San Francisco’s Jewish and Republican political circles 1.12 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation), [1.25 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
- Pisces Inc.: Functions as the primary vehicle for the family’s private equity investments and philanthropic coordination. It has been documented as a donor to various educational and community initiatives, often intertwined with pro-Israel networks [1.16, 1.30].
Relationship to Israel and Zionist Advocacy
The Fisher family’s support for Israel is documented through direct donations, board leadership in Zionist organizations, and corporate initiatives.
1. Koret Foundation
The Fisher family has had a long-standing leadership relationship with the Koret Foundation, a major San Francisco-based philanthropic organization with a mission that includes “strengthening Israel” and “supporting the Jewish community” [1.3].
- Board Leadership: Donald Fisher served as a prominent member of the Koret Foundation’s board of directors [1.12 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
- Zionist Funding: The Koret Foundation is a significant funder of “free-market economic expansion in Israel” and has historically supported organizations such as AIPAC and the Washington Institute for Near East Policy (WINEP) [1.3, 1.9].
2. Birthright Israel
The Fisher name is centrally associated with Birthright Israel (Taglit), an organization that provides free educational trips to Israel for young Jewish adults to strengthen their connection to the state.
- Foundation Support: While the Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation (associated with the Detroit-based Fisher family) is one of Birthright’s most prolific donors, the Gap-founding Fisher family in San Francisco has also been documented as a consistent supporter through the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund, which channels Fisher family wealth into Birthright and other Israeli programs [1.3, 1.12 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
- Leadership: David Fisher, a member of the broader Fisher philanthropic network, served as the president of the Birthright Israel Foundation [1.1 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation), 1.5 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
3. Corporate and Brand Advocacy
- Expansion into Israel: In 2009, Gap Inc. signed a major franchise agreement with Elbit Trade & Retail Ltd. to establish a significant retail presence for the Gap and Banana Republic brands within Israel [1.23 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
- Post-October 7 Responses: Following the October 7, 2023, attacks, Gap Inc. was identified among several major fashion corporations that made donations to support relief efforts in Israel [1.19 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
- Leadership Advocacy: Zac Posen, Executive Vice President and Creative Director at Gap Inc., has been identified by activist groups for his vocal advocacy and social media support for Zionist causes and Israeli state interests [1.22 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)].
Documented Affiliations & Contributions
| Organization | Documentation of Relationship |
| :— | :— |
| Koret Foundation | Donald Fisher served on the board; foundation funds free-market projects in Israel [1.12 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation), 1.3]. |
| Birthright Israel | Extensive multi-generational funding and leadership roles held by the family [1.4, 1.14 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)]. |
| S.F. Jewish Federation | Significant donor to the Endowment Fund, which supports various Zionist and pro-Israel educational programs [1.12 (Note: having trouble producing a specific citation)]. |
| Israel Bonds | Members of the family have been documented purchasers of Israel Bonds as a form of direct financial support to the state [1.6]. |
Supported Candidates
| Candidate |
Years |
Direct Contributions |
Behested Payments |
| Robert Rivas |
2017 |
$100 |
$0 |