What's Happening?
The ROI Community, a leadership incubator established by the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies, is concluding its operations after 20 years. The program, which has engaged 1,700 participants from over 60 countries, held its final summit
in Jerusalem. The initiative focused on investing in individuals rather than projects, fostering a network of young Jewish leaders through immersive summits and sustained relationships. The closure of ROI marks a shift for the Schusterman Foundation towards becoming an exclusively grantmaking institution. The foundation has already transitioned other programs, such as the Schusterman Fellowship and the Reality program, to new operators. The final summit was attended by notable figures, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and celebrated the program's legacy and future potential of its alumni.
Why It's Important?
The conclusion of the ROI Community signifies a major transition in the landscape of global Jewish leadership development. The program has been instrumental in connecting young Jewish leaders worldwide, fostering collaboration and innovation. Its closure creates a vacuum in leadership development opportunities, particularly for young adults in their 20s. The Schusterman Foundation's shift to grantmaking reflects a strategic realignment, potentially influencing how Jewish leadership and community initiatives are funded and supported. The legacy of ROI is expected to continue through its alumni, who have already begun organizing independent gatherings and initiatives. This transition highlights the evolving nature of philanthropic strategies in addressing community needs and sustaining leadership networks.
What's Next?
With the closure of ROI, the Schusterman Foundation will focus on its grantmaking efforts, supporting leaders and organizations that align with its mission. Alumni of the ROI Community are expected to continue the program's legacy through self-organized events and initiatives. The foundation's strategic shift may inspire other philanthropic organizations to reevaluate their approaches to leadership development and community engagement. The impact of ROI's closure will likely be observed in the coming years as its alumni navigate new opportunities and challenges in global Jewish leadership.
