Mayberg Foundation Launches New Era of Strategic Philanthropy and Learning in Israel

The Mayberg Foundation’s Israel Committee gathered one month ago for its first multi-day summit in Israel—a milestone that marks not just a new phase of philanthropic engagement, but the start of a collective learning journey. Trustees, rising trustees and Foundation staff came together with a shared goal: to listen, question, and deepen their understanding of Israel’s rapidly changing nonprofit environment in the wake of October 7, 2023.

Learning Before Leading: A Summit Without Assumptions

Israeli author and public intellectual micah goodman meets with mayberg foundation israel committee members during two day israel summit

“This summit wasn’t about declaring priorities or setting a fixed agenda,” said Mayberg Foundation Executive Director Todd Sukol. “It was an intentional pause to learn from the people and organizations shaping Israel’s future, and to reflect on the complexities and responsibilities that come with effective philanthropy.” Together, the committee questioned assumptions, listened deeply, and embraced uncertainty as part of their learning journey.

“We take great pride in the family and Foundation’s recognition that real impact in Israel begins with a deep commitment to learning,” said Hanan Rubin, the Foundation’s director of Israel strategy. “Israel offers a unique ecosystem—defined by its distinct needs and phenomenal entrepreneurs—and we approach this challenge with both humility and a passionate drive to create meaningful change.”

Hanan and Zohar Hahn-Brafman, program officer, Israel, curated a program that spotlighted four urgent topics shaping Israel’s future. Throughout, the committee engaged with leading Israeli experts and practitioners, gaining firsthand insight into the realities on the ground. 

These conversations delved into the challenge of fostering Jewish unity and identity in a rapidly shifting landscape, stressing the need to build common purpose across diverse communities and help individuals connect to their heritage in meaningful ways. The group also examined the profound impact of trauma and mental health needs post-conflict, the demographic growth and integration of the Haredi community, and the strategic importance of supporting growth and resilience in Israel’s border regions. By hearing directly from those on the ground, the committee surfaced new insights and sharpened its focus on the areas where thoughtful, collaborative philanthropy can make a real difference.

The summit also underscored important differences between the Israeli and American philanthropic landscapes. Many services funded by philanthropy in the U.S. are government- provided in Israel, making it essential for funders to identify where their dollars add unique value—often in partnership with public efforts. Mayberg Foundation Trustee Louis Mayberg encouraged the committee to think like “entrepreneurial philanthropists,” using creative financial tools and strategic approaches to cut through the noise and focus on opportunities that align with the Foundation’s vision and values.

Reflections and Recognition

Mayberg Foundation Trustee and President Manette Mayberg described the gathering as a “proud and defining moment” that signals a new era of strategic engagement for the family’s philanthropy in Israel, noting, “Our goal is to deepen and enrich our understanding toward making the most effective and impactful contributions possible.”

As one rising trustee observed, the summit addressed the committee’s most pressing issues, helping to clarify its strategy and chart a more defined, inspired path forward informed by fresh insights and exposure to new initiatives. Colleagues at peer foundations in Israel helped support and further this learning journey through meetings with Mayberg Foundation staff following the summit.

Looking Ahead: A Continued Journey

This summit is just the beginning. The Mayberg Foundation’s Israel Committee is committed to ongoing, intentional learning—understanding that impactful giving requires constant curiosity, humility, and a willingness to recalibrate. There was consensus that this would not be the last seminar of its kind; rather, it marks the launch of a journey that will continue to unfold, informed by direct engagement, research, and open dialogue.

“Together with Zohar, the Mayberg Foundation team, and the invaluable support of the Israel Committee and our trustees, Manette and Louis, we look forward to continuing this journey and deepening our impact for many years to come,” Hanan shared. For all participants, the summit served as a vital launching pad for a next chapter of thoughtful, collaborative, and deeply engaged work in Israel.