Global Jewish Philanthropy: Navigating Challenges and Building Bridges

The recent Jewish Funders Network (JFN) conference in Nashville brought together approximately 700 attendees, including individual funders, representatives from family foundations, and major grantmakers. The event featured a diverse array of topics for discussion, ranging from educational initiatives to combating antisemitism, reflecting the complexity of challenges facing the Jewish community today. Unlike last year's more focused gathering in Tel Aviv, this year's conference offered a broader exploration of issues, inviting participants to consider how philanthropy can evolve amidst rising global tensions.

Speakers at the conference emphasized the need for strategic thinking and innovation in addressing these challenges. Keynote addresses highlighted the importance of allyship, both within and beyond the Jewish community, as well as the necessity of fostering constructive dialogue and collaboration. Despite the variety of subjects discussed, there was a shared understanding that Jewish philanthropists must rise to meet the moment with renewed commitment and vision.

Redefining Philanthropic Priorities

This section explores how the JFN conference addressed the evolving role of Jewish philanthropy in response to current global challenges. Attendees were encouraged to rethink traditional approaches and adopt more strategic frameworks. For instance, Zoya Raynes, chair of JFN, stressed the need for funders to move beyond superficial gestures and focus on meaningful impact. This call to action was particularly relevant in light of rising antisemitism and the complexities of supporting Israel during times of conflict.

Conference discussions delved into specific areas where philanthropy could make a difference. One significant topic was the need to combat antisemitism on college campuses by investing in education and research rather than merely naming buildings or picking wallpaper. Additionally, speakers like Andrés Spokoiny challenged participants to articulate a positive vision for Jewish life, moving beyond oppositional stances to define what they stand for. These conversations underscored the importance of aligning funding priorities with long-term goals and fostering resilience within Jewish communities worldwide.

Fostering Alliances and Community Engagement

A central theme of the JFN conference was the value of building alliances and partnerships across diverse groups. Sessions focused on strengthening relationships between Jewish and non-Jewish communities, emphasizing mutual support and shared values. A standout moment came during a plenary session featuring Van Jones, who spoke passionately about the historical ties between Black and Jewish communities and the urgent need to rebuild these connections. His remarks highlighted the potential for collaborative efforts in advancing democratic principles and social justice.

Beyond intercommunity relations, the conference also explored internal dynamics within the Jewish world. Discussions around gender equity, intergenerational family dynamics, and pluralism revealed a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Furthermore, the presence of organizations like the Briah Foundation and Birthright Israel demonstrated the breadth of initiatives aimed at engaging younger generations and promoting Jewish identity. By fostering dialogue and encouraging innovative approaches, the conference provided a platform for reimagining what it means to be part of a global Jewish community in today’s complex world.