Wishing you and yours a happy Chanukah!

D E C E M B E R _2 0 2 3

by Rabbi Aaron Lerner, President & CEO



Israel has profoundly touched so many of our lives. For me, my time b’aretz (in Israel) changed the direction of my life at least twice.

My first encounter with our Jewish homeland was on a Birthright trip with Hillel. The experience solidified my identity as I committed to living a fuller Jewish life. There was just something about being surrounded by Hebrew and the fulfillment of a Jewish yearning to return to the land of our ancestors that made me feel part of a much greater movement.

After graduating college, I returned to Israel, stumbling into a yeshiva experience that taught me...

Be Ready in Times of Crisis with a Donor Advised Fund

Having a fund with us means you're prepared to give immediately in an emergency through our convenient online donor services portal. You also have access to expert advisors at the Center for Designed Philanthropy who can quickly refer you to vetted organizations to address the crisis.

If you would like to learn more, email us at [email protected] or call us at 323.761.8704 today.

Naomi Strongin for eJewish Philanthropy: "Tips for Giving Effectively to a Country in Crisis"

Naomi Strongin, vice president of the Center for Designed Philanthropy, recently penned an insightful article on effective philanthropy during times of crisis that ran in the LA Daily News and eJewish Philanthropy. In the wake of recent events in Israel, many of us feel compelled to help, but it's crucial to do so purposefully. Naomi provides valuable tips on navigating challenges and ensuring your support makes a meaningful impact. 

The Foundation recently awarded $2 million to eight organizations combatting antisemitism, empowering diverse Jewish communities, and promoting mental health. Since 2006, The Foundation has invested $23M in 100+ innovative Jewish causes through our Cutting Edge Grants program, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

Jewtina y Co.

Jewish Studio Project

Since October 7th, our family of donors has made over 900 grants from their charitable funds, totaling more than $6.7 million to organizations in Israel addressing urgent needs.

The Foundation has also allocated significant funding for Israel, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater LA’s Israel Emergency effort. The first round will go to nine organizations addressing trauma, hostage rescue, the needs of kibbutz members, food distribution, and more.

Combining our Foundation grants with donor-directed grants, nearly $7.5 million in emergency support has been dedicated to Israel.

From L to R: Evan Schlessinger (Chair), Daniella Kahen (Trustee), Dr. Bruce Powell, Marvin Schotland (CEO Emeritus), Rabbi Aaron Lerner (President & CEO)

The Foundation recently honored Dr. Bruce Powell with our inaugural Marvin I. Schotland Leadership Award, established in tribute to our former president and CEO. It recognizes an individual in the LA Jewish community who exemplifies the vision and leadership personified by Marvin Schotland.

In selecting Powell, dean of the School For Jewish Education and Leadership at American Jewish University, The Foundation salutes his half-century of contributions as a founder and head of three Los Angeles-area Jewish schools – Yeshiva University of Los Angeles (YULA) High School, Milken Community School and de Toledo High School – as well as his earlier background in public instruction.

Dr. Bruce Powell's remarks from the award ceremony were published in the Jewish Journal. Click here to read.

In September, we hosted NY Times "Your Money" financial columnist and bestselling author, Ron Lieber, for an inspiring discussion on raising kids and grandkids who are grounded, generous, and smart about money.

Foundation Trustee Stacy Reznikoff Kent did a fantastic job moderating the talk, and our Trustee Lynn Bider and her husband Les graciously opened their beautiful home for this special event.



Over 100 people attended the program and left with practical advice on how to instill strong financial lessons to the next generation.

In our new annual report, we celebrate the most The Foundation and our donors have granted in a single year: $160 million.

In 2022, our donor family's generosity record-breaking generosity displayed a steadfast commitment to repairing the world, now more than ever.

Read about our collective grantmaking and hear from donors about their partnerships with The Foundation and how they choose to make an impact in the community.