Reflecting on My Final Year at The Foundation
by Marvin Schotland, Foundation President & CEO
Last month I announced my plans to retire from The Foundation at the end of this year. Reaching this decision required much contemplation over a considerable period of time. It was one of the toughest decisions I've ever made as president and CEO of The Foundation because I love my work and this fine organization. I'll miss it dearly after more than three decades at the helm. But The Foundation is about much more than just one person. It's about an incredibly dedicated and talented team of professionals led by an outstanding Board of Trustees that places great value on collaboration and results. And it's also about our donors, who are our vital partners in philanthropy.

In the coming months, I plan to share more on what I've learned about effective philanthropy and building community during my 33-year tenure working here. I've had the unique privilege of meeting and working with some of the most generous and community-minded people you could ever imagine who have changed our world for the better, and I'd like to share more insights from those remarkable relationships with you.

For the remainder of this year, I will be working hard to make it one of The Foundation's best and most productive periods. I want to depart this wonderful organization knowing I've done everything I could possibly do as its professional leader to raise the level of tzedakah in our community and magnify our efforts to improve the lives of others. I welcome you to join me on this journey and help make 2022 the best year ever in The Foundation's history!
Foundation Awards Grants to Three Jewish Organizations in Response to Colleyville, Texas Synagogue Attack
In response to the recent synagogue attack in Colleyville, Texas, The Foundation awarded grants to organizations at the forefront of protecting Jewish Americans from danger and discrimination resulting from anti-Semitism, strengthening security within Jewish institutions, and fostering healthy dialogue about charged issues among Jewish people of diverse backgrounds and views.

The organizations are the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, and Resetting the Table for their work in Los Angeles.
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Welcome Two New Trustees
We’re pleased to welcome our newest trustees Nurit Robin and Jeffrey Kinrich, both distinguished community leaders.
Explore Your Journey as a Donor
The Foundation recognizes that every person is unique when it comes to their charitable giving. That’s why we offer customized services for wherever you stand in your philanthropic pursuits.
Meet The Experts
Our experts are here to help you help others! On our new webpage, learn more about our trained staff and how they might help you in your charitable giving.
Ask the Experts
Our team members at the Center for Designed Philanthropy work every day to help donors identify their charitable passions, facilitate family meetings, and connect them with outstanding nonprofits that are repairing the world. To start off the year, we asked their advice on a question we hear often from donors:
"As I begin thinking about my philanthropy for 2022, what advice do you have on making a meaningful gift?"
Naomi Strongin, Vice President, Center for Designed Philanthropy
"Naase V’Nishma, a Jewish value meaning “we do and we listen”. I encourage you to do, to take action. Perhaps that means donating to a new organization, increasing a gift to an organization you’ve supported for a long-time, or sharing about your giving with a loved one. Whatever it is, take action. And while taking action, continue to listen and to learn, which will ultimately lead to greater understanding and meaningful giving."
"Take time to consider the Jewish values that speak most strongly to you. Perhaps you benefitted from a Jewish education and want to continue that tradition with your tzedakah. Or you value the family meals you share on holidays and want to support organizations working to end hunger. Connecting your giving to your core values is a great way to make a meaningful gift."
Sara Hahn, Senior Program Officer, Center for Designed Philanthropy
Warren Fong, Senior Program Officer, Center for Designed Philanthropy
“Close your eyes and imagine the person you want to help with your gift. Imagine what you hope your gift will be able to give them. I find this to be an effective and clarifying process for the donors I've helped who are struggling to narrow down their giving when there is so much need.”
Do you have a question for our experts? Ask them here.
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