Philanthropy is the powerful force that turns compassion into meaningful change. It is more than just the act of giving financial resources—it is a potent catalyst for shaping the future and creating a better world for everyone.  

For as long as I can remember, giving has been an important and consistent theme in my family’s story.  

My parents, David z”l and Stephanie, were always generous, even when they didn’t have much to give. For them, community-focused involvement and giving was personal and became a key focus of our family’s social life. There was never a sense of obligation, but rather one of joy—the joy that comes from being able to do a mitzvah.  

My father felt that just making a donation was not enough. Rather, he said: “You must give with all your heart and with the belief that it is going to make a difference.” These lessons have guided me in my own philanthropic journey. I believe it is not enough simply to give—it’s about giving in a way that creates sustainable change and passing that on to future generations. 

For me, the act of tzedakah is a way to build strong, forward-looking communities that emphasize the interconnectedness of individuals and the need for both creativity and compassion. My experience in leading multiple philanthropic partnerships and initiatives has shown me that philanthropy is about innovation—rethinking old models and finding new ways to support causes and people.  

When done strategically and with purpose, philanthropy can make the impossible possible—and the key to making lasting impact, I’ve learned, is collaboration. Bringing people together from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to brainstorm solutions is the best way to catalyze positive, meaningful change.  

One of the most meaningful aspects of philanthropy in my life personally has been to be able to stand together with those in need and say: “I see you.” These are powerful—and empowering—words that can lift up the most vulnerable in our society, including people living with neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as those who care for them, and inspire the dedicated research scientists whose work may one day improve their lives.  

In our community, there are many ways to give. The key is to find what speaks to you, what you’re passionate about—and then, as my father wisely said, to do it with your whole heart.  

The late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks once wrote: “The greatest gift is to be able to give and the life we lead is measured in the good we do.” The most important lesson I have learned is that in giving, you receive much more than you could ever have imagined or hoped for.