What's Happening?
Schusterman Family Philanthropies has announced the closure of its ROI program, effective July 1, 2026, after nearly two decades of fostering young Jewish change-makers. The program, known for its annual
summits and microgrants, aimed to cultivate leaders within the Jewish community. Despite its success, the organization is shifting its focus towards grantmaking in the U.S. and Israel, concentrating on areas such as combating antisemitism and supporting Israeli initiatives. The decision follows a strategic shift initiated last March, which included scaling back the program's resources and cutting 'Reality' trips to Israel.
Why It's Important?
The closure of the ROI program marks a significant shift in Schusterman Family Philanthropies' approach to social change. By reallocating resources to grantmaking, the organization aims to address pressing challenges facing the Jewish community and Israel more effectively. This transition could impact the landscape of Jewish philanthropy, as the ROI program has been instrumental in developing leaders across various sectors. The move reflects a broader trend in philanthropy towards strategic grantmaking, potentially influencing other organizations to adopt similar models.
What's Next?
As the ROI program winds down, Schusterman plans to hold global gatherings to maintain connections among participants. The organization will share insights from the initiative with other groups to foster new communities of change-makers. While the final summit's date is yet to be set, it will focus on addressing new challenges, leveraging the expertise of its participants. Schusterman expects many former ROI members to continue their work through grants supporting criminal justice, democracy, and gender rights, ensuring the program's legacy endures.
Beyond the Headlines
The closure of the ROI program highlights the evolving nature of philanthropic strategies. By focusing on grantmaking, Schusterman aims to maximize its impact on critical issues. This shift underscores the importance of adaptability in philanthropy, as organizations must respond to changing societal needs. The ROI program's legacy will likely influence future philanthropic initiatives, emphasizing the value of empowering communities to drive their own change.
