We share our ideas, perspectives, and reflections on the pressing issues of today.
Insights
An advantage of working at the intersection of research, implementation, and iteration is that we are able to reflect on the ever-changing ecosystem. It is a privilege to leverage the Foundation’s resources to promote ideas, bring people together, and serve as a catalyst for creating vibrant communities.
$10 Million Koret Foundation grant to establish Koret center for Jewish civilization at TAU
The Koret Center at TAU, Israel’s largest research university, will work to bridge divides and improve relationships between Jewish communities worldwide by centering on the common bonds that have united the Jewish people for millennia. Read the full story at the Jerusalem Post.
Koret Foundation aims to bolster civics education in California
“A new generation educated on the fundamentals of our government is the strongest way to ensure democracy for decades to come,” said Michael Boskin, president of the Koret Foundation, in a press release. Read the full story on the J. Weekly.
We are honored to celebrate Jeff Farber
Koret’s CEO, Jeff Farber, was awarded the 2022 Tzedek (righteousness) award at A Wider Bridge’s 10th Anniversary Celebration. View the recording of the celebration below.
On International Holocaust Remembrance day, keeping memory alive through storytelling
Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. We remember those we lost through stories. Rywka’s Diary provides a glimpse into the life of an ordinary girl during extraordinary times.
Celebrating our Veterans
This Veterans Day, learn about Koret’s commitment to grantmaking that supports vets in key areas as they reintegrate into civilian life:
Koret President Dr. Anita Friedman receives Visionary Leadership Award from Tel Aviv University
Dr. Anita Friedman will receive Tel Aviv University’s prestigious Visionary Leadership Award at their 2021 virtual gala. The gala is raising funds for three important initiatives at Tel Aviv University: student scholarships, medical research, and The Center for Combatting Pandemics.
Honoring our veterans this Memorial Day
We are proud to honor our local military veterans this Memorial Day and every day. Koret’s Veterans Initiative helps vets reintegrate into civilian life with mental healthcare, workforce development, and community building to combat social isolation.
Congratulations to the Koret Scholars class of 2021!
Congratulations to our Koret Scholars! Despite a challenging year, you have achieved a great milestone. We’re so proud of you and are confident in your bright futures! Hannah Brownlee, Sonoma State University class of 2021, shared that the research opportunities provided by the Koret Scholars program set her up for a successful future: “This experience has motivated me to apply to graduate programs, and I will be attending the University of Delaware in the fall of 2021 to pursue my doctorate.”
Celebrating Earth Day
Happy Earth Day! Koret believes that caring for the earth (the Jewish value of shmirat ha’adamah) is a fundamental part of sustaining healthy and vibrant communities. Our grantee Urban Adamah is meeting critical needs of food distribution and community connection through a Jewish, earth-based lens.
Celebrating Israel’s 73rd Independence Day
Happy Birthday Israel! Yom Ha’Atzmaut marks the anniversary of the establishment of the modern state of Israel. Koret is deeply committed to strengthening the US-Israel relationship and educating the broader community about the diversity of modern Jewish life in Israel, Israel as a Jewish homeland, and the importance of Israel’s contributions to the world.
Our Pandemic Year: 12 months of frenzied fundraising and philanthropy
Bay Area Jewish funders and fundraisers reflect on the pandemic one year later. “At the beginning of the pandemic, the only thing that was certain was that no one knew what to expect — foundations and grantees alike,” recalls Danielle Foreman, Koret’s director of programs. (Photo/Seth Leslie)
George Shultz, former sec. of state who fought for Soviet Jews, had Bay Area ties
George Shultz, the Reagan administration secretary of state who made it his mission to bring about freedom for Soviet Jewry, lived in the Bay Area for three decades before his passing at age 100. “I had the privilege of working for and with George Shultz for over 36 years,” said Abraham Sofaer, a Koret director who served as legal adviser in the State Department under Shultz. “He cared deeply about human rights, helped liberate Soviet Jewry, and supported Israel.”
Koret remembers George Shultz
Koret is saddened by the passing of George Shultz at the age of 100, a longtime Koret special advisor and lauded statesman. The well-respected diplomat held three presidential cabinet positions, advised every U.S. president since Eisenhower, and leaves the legacy of a distinguished career in government, business, and academia. May his memory be a blessing.
KTVU: Foundation gives $5M to Bay Area food banks during coronavirus pandemic
The Koret Foundation announced funding for seven Bay Area food banks and meal delivery services, to help groups serving the hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has caused the number of people requiring assistance to skyrocket. Michael Boskin, president of the Koret Foundation, said that he hopes Koret’s grants will “encourage other donors to do the same.”