The Young Jewish Fund (YJF) engages Bay Area Jewish young adults (ages 20-35) in a four-month long exploration of philanthropy, issue-area discussions, and community building.
In the wake of October 7th, The Bay Area Tribe—a local group of Jewish young adults—reached out to the Federation for guidance on how to unite with the community and engage in philanthropy. With support from two lay leaders, we have successfully completed two consecutive cycles of this giving circle initiative, now called The Young Jewish Fund.
In their first meetings, the inaugural cohort decided to use their capital to address local and online antisemitism. The members landed on this granting focus after discussing the wide range of issues that they were personally passionate about including climate, women’s health, and more.
The second cohort, with new and familiar faces, brought different perspectives and approaches to the table. In the second cycle, grants were made to organizations educating and engaging the diversity of the Bay Area Jewish Community. In total, the YJF has granted more than $20,000 over two cycles.
Impact
Total Dollars Raised: $20,754 Total Members: 24 Grants Made: 5
Impact
Total Dollars Raised: $20,754
Total Members: 24
Grants Made: 5
FAQ
Each ‘cycle’ is comprised of four meetings that take place in San Francisco on weeknights. In-person attendance is expected, but we do have hybrid options if needed.
Time commitment between meetings is not required though optional pre-reading materials may be distributed.
The Young Jewish fund has a suggested donation of $250 or a gift that’s meaningful to you. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. Participants also often utilize company matching or fundraise within their network as a part of or in addition to their individual gift.
During each cycle, the cohort collectively decides what issue area they want to address. The first cycle focused on combating local and online antisemitism. The second cycle focused on organizations educating and engaging the diversity of the Bay Area Jewish Community. Focus areas do not have to be specifically Jewish and can support global organizations.
We have a wide variety of pop-up (one time) giving circles that offer a great taste of what an ongoing giving circle offers without a longer commitment. We hope you can join us for those! Email collaborative@sfjcf.org for more details.
I wanted to flex my philanthropic muscle, especially as I navigate adulthood and how to determine my own values. I was excited to work with the Federation to explore this while also enabling me to greatly increase my impact, all while building a supportive community along the way.
— Jordana Siegel, Co-chair of the Young Jewish Fund
Contact Us
Email us for more information about the Young Jewish Fund.