Wishing you and yours a happy Chanukah!

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by Rabbi Aaron Lerner, President & CEO



As we approach Chanukah, we are reminded of the power of hope, resilience, and the importance of light – even in the darkest of times. Chanukah teaches us that acts of kindness and generosity illuminate the world around us, inspiring us to make a difference in our communities.

Together this year, we have spread the light by contributing extraordinary support to Israel, taking a strong stance against antisemitism, supporting the professionals who are the backbone of our communal institutions, and engaging in important discussions to ensure our philanthropy is well-informed and impactful.

May the lights of Chanukah brighten your homes, and may 2025 bring health, happiness, and renewed fulfillment through your tzedakah. Happy Chanukah!

This Chanukah, I'm delighted to share a booklet I wrote that explores the concept of tzedakah—the Jewish value of justice through giving—and what Jewish law says about how it should shape our philanthropy.

For your copy, click here.

Give A Donor Advised Fund: An Ideal Gift for Chanukah

Give a lifelong gift of philanthropy and spread the joy of making a difference in the world.

This Chanukah, gift a Donor Advised Fund to your child or grandchild and we'll create a personalized "gift certificate" that you can present to them.

Many Foundation clients have discovered how meaningful and inspiring this is for their families. Contact us to learn more or call us at 323.761.8704.

Riding the Market Wave: Transform Gains into Giving

Take charitable advantage of a record year of market gains!

Unlock the advantages of:

• Donating Appreciated Stock
• Donating Cryptocurrencies

View the recent exclusive webinar from Abby Feinman and Selwyn Gerber, rich with expert year-end tax planning tips.

Smart Year-End Strategies: Amplify Your Impact

Maximize deductions, minimize liabilities, and position yourself for a successful start to the new year. Support the causes you care about most. Explore our Giving Resources Page for targeted recommendations.

Plan ahead and give smarter by:

• Giving from an IRA
• Maximizing your philanthropy

For questions, contact us at 323.761.8704 or by email.

NEW Direct Hardship Relief Grants were awarded to 30 organizations that support individuals and families facing urgent financial crises. These grants will help people stay in their homes, purchase groceries, and access critical medical care.

Para Los Niños

LA Family Housing

From L to R: Natan Sharansky with Justin Jampol, founder and executive director of

The Wende Museum of the Cold War

Renowned Israeli politician, human rights activist, and author Natan Sharansky shared an inspiring message of resilience with Foundation clients at an exclusive event in November. In his remarks, he urged American Jewry to confront the growing threat of antisemitism and offered a thoughtful perspective on forging a path forward.

Sharansky's visit underscored the enduring power of resilience, Jewish unity, and the fight for freedom. He encouraged attendees to reflect on their own roles in upholding these values. His advice to embrace identity while fostering inclusivity within our Jewish community resonated as a compelling framework to address challenges in today's interconnected yet divided world.

“There is a huge attempt to separate Zionism from Judaism,” Sharansky said. “We have to show the world the danger of this effort, not just for us, but for them.”

Jewish Journal reporter and Foundation client, Judy Gruen, captures the essence of his insightful and inspiring remarks in her recent article about the event,

This Chanukah, The Foundation awarded grants to four exceptional organizations dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk youth in Israel.

In the wake of the devastating events of October 7th, much government and private funding has been diverted to emergency relief efforts. While this is critical and necessary, it has left some youth-focused programs underfunded. Recognizing this urgent need, and in consultation with our on-the-ground Israel Grants consultant, Offi Zisser, The Foundation identified youth-focused organizations making a meaningful impact during this challenging time.

These grants reflect our commitment to shining a light of hope and resilience in Israel, ensuring that even in the darkest times, youth can find stability, care, and the opportunity to thrive.

Jordan River Village

Beit Issie Shapiro

Nirim

Israel LGBTQ+ Youth Movement

Our new annual report celebrates the incredible achievements of our client community in 2023. Our community made a record $177 million in grants and contributed $136 million to their charitable funds, the most in the past decade.