Foundation News

Approaching its 50th anniversary, OMCA has launched a comprehensive campaign to invest in longterm sustainability and transform its landmark campus to provide an even more welcoming experience for all visitors. Koret is pleased to be a part of the All In! campaign.

A new study by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors and the TIAA Institute examines trends in funding for higher education. The study, “Philanthropy in Higher Education: Priorities and Approaches of Private Foundations,” shows that student access and success is a key focus for foundation giving, particularly for first-generation and low-income students. Community colleges are also emerging as a priority for many funders. Koret has and will continue to explore funding to this area under the Bay Area Higher Education Initiative.

Wishing everyone a sweet and healthy new year!

IsraAID’s Emergency Response team arrived in the Bahamas on September 5th, shortly after the most powerful hurricane in the Caribbean nation’s history. With support from IsraAID’s Emergency Response Fund, response teams are providing essential aid on the ground, such as medical care, psychosocial support, search and rescue services, and distribution of water and essential items.

The San Francisco Symphony’s Opening Night Gala on September 4th marked the beginning of Michael Tilson Thomas’s final season as the symphony’s music director. Among the celebrations, Thomas conducted a special performance at Davies Symphony Hall, featuring special guest artists to commemorate his 25 remarkable years in the role.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed was on-site to help Meals on Wheels of San Francisco break ground on its new facility. The new kitchen and food production area will more than double the number of meals served daily for San Francisco’s homebound seniors. Research shows that this population will continue to grow, so the expansion of services from organizations like Meals on Wheels is especially timely.

With lead support from Koret, Shalom Hartman Institute North America has begun its next phase of growth. For the past five years, the San Francisco Bay Area has served as a pilot for elevating Jewish thought leadership in an entire region. Hartman is using its experience in the Bay Area to expand to more cities across the country, including growing its research centers and programs nationally.

Veterans News Report announces Koret’s new initiative, supporting Bay Area veterans in workforce development, health care, and transition to civilian life.

San Francisco Symphony celebrated another successful year of its Music and Mentors program with a year-end luncheon for its music educators and mentors. The annual celebration brought together teaching artists and community supporters to share program highlights, accomplishments, and special moments. Pictured is San Francisco Symphony Principal trombone Timothy Higgins visiting and coaching students in the program.

The Institute for Jewish Law and Israel Studies at UC Berkeley created its first endowed chair in Israel Studies. Koret was an early and lead funder for the Institute, and recently awarded a new $1 million gift. The Institute’s interdisciplinary approach addresses the complex challenges of modern Israel and Jewish identity, allowing students to explore these issues from different angles.