What's Happening?
Yaniv Halily, CEO of the Ofer Foundation, emphasizes the importance of storytelling in philanthropy and urges American Jewish donors to remain engaged with Israeli causes, even amidst rising antisemitism on university campuses. Halily, who transitioned
from a journalism career to philanthropy, highlights the strategic decision by the Ofer Foundation to expand its fellowship program at Harvard Kennedy School despite resigning from its board due to antisemitic incidents. He argues that withdrawing support could inadvertently strengthen opposing influences, such as those from Qatari donors. Halily also discusses the foundation's initiatives, including a leadership program for Druze women, which aims to address gender disparities and promote education within the community.
Why It's Important?
The stance taken by the Ofer Foundation reflects a broader debate within the Jewish philanthropic community about how to respond to antisemitism in academic institutions. Halily's approach suggests that maintaining a presence and influence within these institutions is crucial to counteract negative sentiments and ensure a safe environment for Jewish students. This perspective is significant as it challenges the notion of withdrawing support as a form of protest, proposing instead that engagement and expansion of programs can foster resilience and understanding. The foundation's actions could influence other donors and shape the future of Jewish philanthropy in educational settings.
What's Next?
The Ofer Foundation plans to continue its expanded fellowship program at Harvard Kennedy School, aiming to increase the number of Israeli fellows and maintain a positive representation of Israel. This decision may prompt other Jewish philanthropists to reconsider their strategies in dealing with antisemitism on campuses. Additionally, the foundation's focus on storytelling and innovative program design could inspire similar approaches in other philanthropic efforts, potentially leading to more effective engagement and impact in various social initiatives.
Beyond the Headlines
Halily's emphasis on storytelling and strategic philanthropy highlights a shift in how foundations can leverage media and communication to enhance their impact. By creating compelling narratives around their initiatives, foundations can attract more partners and resources, ultimately expanding their reach and effectiveness. This approach underscores the evolving nature of philanthropy, where traditional methods are complemented by innovative strategies to address complex social issues.
