Since the attacks on October 7, 2023, Jewish philanthropy has entered a new and complex phase. The immediate aftermath saw an extraordinary surge in donations, with hundreds of millions of dollars raised within days to support Israel’s defense, relief, and recovery efforts. This instinctive response from donors reflected deep emotional ties and a commitment to communal resilience.
As time has passed, the landscape of Jewish giving has shifted. The urgent needs that once drove contributions have diversified, creating a more fragmented focus among donors. According to Jewish historian Jack Wertheimer, the current state of Jewish philanthropy is characterized by both energy and division. While the impulse to give remains strong, it has become scattered across various causes.
Some donors continue to prioritize Israel’s recovery, while others focus on combating antisemitism in the United States or enhancing Jewish education and community life at home. Each of these causes is significant, but this diversification has resulted in gaps, particularly in areas that may not make headlines but are crucial for sustaining Jewish life over time. Essential institutions such as day schools, camps, synagogues, cultural organizations, and social services are at risk.
A recent study by CCS Fundraising, a prominent consulting firm for Jewish nonprofits, indicates that while many organizations retained new donors who emerged after the October attacks, most ongoing donations are directed towards Israel-related and security initiatives. This trend poses a challenge for local institutions, educators, and communal professionals who play a vital role in Jewish survival and continuity.
Changing Dynamics of Giving
The mechanics of philanthropy have also evolved. Giving has become less centralized, with national organizations that traditionally served as primary channels now competing with online campaigns, pop-up funds, and influencer-driven appeals. While this democratization allows smaller causes to gain visibility, it raises concerns about duplication of efforts and a lack of strategic focus.
Notably, a small number of mega-donors increasingly influence philanthropic agendas based on personal interests rather than communal priorities. Analysts point out that these trends reflect wider shifts in the nonprofit sector, where donors seek tangible impacts, transparency, and emotionally resonant stories. Younger donors, in particular, expect to have a voice in decision-making and tend to contribute to specific projects that align with their values and demonstrate measurable change.
Organizations that do not adapt to this evolving culture of engagement risk losing support as the sense of urgency diminishes. The phenomenon known as donor fatigue looms large; emergency appeals cannot sustain momentum indefinitely. The challenge now is to transform the spontaneous generosity observed during crises into lasting commitment and to reinforce the importance of Jewish institutions during ordinary times as well.
Building a Sustainable Philanthropic Future
The path forward lies in fostering collaboration rather than competition. It is essential to build bridges between large and small donors, between initiatives focused on Israel and those rooted in the diaspora, and between legacy institutions and grassroots movements. Philanthropy should be viewed not merely as charitable giving but as a strategic investment in continuity, education, and communal strength.
The spirit of giving that emerged from tragedy must serve as a foundation for renewal. By channeling passion into purpose, the generosity born from crises can help shape a stronger and more connected Jewish future. As the community navigates this complex landscape, it is crucial to remind donors of the ongoing relevance and importance of Jewish institutions, extending their commitment beyond moments of crisis.