L’dor v’dor is a Jewish value that emphasizes passing traditions and knowledge from one generation to the next. Over the last 50 years, the Koret Foundation has funded programs across generations, recognizing that at each stage of life, community connections matter. Going a step further, we also embrace the idea that generations have much to learn from one another. Older generations can pass along the wisdom and experience they have gained over the years as well as fostering resilience and perspective in younger generations. In turn, younger people keep their elders engaged with a changing world. Everyone stands to benefit immensely from sustained, open dialogue.

This newsletter highlights Israel on Campus Coalition, whose Voices for Truth program provides media training and fellowship opportunities for college students nationwide who are eager to speak out on behalf of Israel. We interviewed three recent participants about their experiences with ICC, and how the mentorship and support they receive has empowered them to use their voices on and off campus. Camp Tawonga, celebrating its 100-year anniversary this March, has provided thousands of Jewish youth and families with enriching Jewish educational experiences for generations.

In the spirit of intergenerational exchange, we are proud to highlight grantees working to build bridges between generations, seeking to foster connection and mentorship. The Commonwealth Club recently hosted an intergenerational dialogue, bringing together participants from 8 to 80 for lively discussions. Summer Search’s annual gala honored the influence of past Koret board member Bob Friend z”l, who believed strongly in the power and potential of youth and mentorship. The Jewish Film Institute hosted the Bay Area premiere of “Among Neighbors,” a powerful film that encourages the new generation to heed lessons from the preceding ones about community, reconciliation, and memory.

We are all stronger when we take the time to learn from—and about—one another. We hope you enjoy reading about these expressions of intergenerational connection.

Jeffrey Farber
CEO

Danielle Foreman
Chief Program Officer

Israel on Campus Coalition: Empowering student advocacy and promoting dialogue 

Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC) is an organization that builds the next generation of campus activists, providing young people with the resources and mentorship necessary to advocate for their beliefs. In a world increasingly filled with division and misinformation, ICC helps college students and recent graduates rely on facts and history to inform their perspectives. Current and former ICC fellows discuss  how the lessons learned and relationships formed during their time with ICC have shaped their values and goals, personally and professionally. Read the full story here.

Thoughts and Opinions

Camp Tawonga celebrates its 100 year anniversary in March! This is a momentous milestone for an organization that provides opportunities for the Bay Area Jewish community to gather, grow, and be in community. Read the full blog post here.

Koret Grantees in the News

Cal Academy Careers in Science Internship Opens Cal Academy has opened the Careers in Science internship application, which exposes youth to careers in STEM. Read more.	iCivics hosts a successful National Forum  Civic Learning Week, which was celebrated March 10-14, served to remind students and educators of the importance of civic education. Read more.	Michael Tilson Thomas to perform final symphony in SF Longtime San Francisco Symphony conductor Michael Tilson Thomas announced his final concert in San Francisco in April Read more.