About Us

History

Jim Joseph established a philanthropic fund in 1987 with its purpose focused exclusively on supporting the education of Jewish youth and young adults in the United States. That fund became the basis of a private foundation incorporated in 2005 as the Shimon Ben Joseph Foundation, commonly known now as the Jim Joseph Foundation.

Since 2006, the Jim Joseph Foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $800 million. The Foundation supports program models proven to have deep and enduring effects on participants; supports the training and development of dynamic, pioneering leaders and educators; and supports the development of ground-breaking forms of Jewish learning and expression

Our
Story

View a retrospective timeline of the Jim Joseph Foundation, developed for its tenth anniversary.

The Life and Legacy of Jim Joseph

Watch a short film about Jim Joseph, his family and his remarkable legacy.

Summary Report:

2008–2012

Learn about major grants and independent evaluations during this time period, as the Foundation continued to grow from its founding.

Thought Leaders

Hear from thought leaders in the field of Jewish education who helped shape the Foundation's initial strategic approach.

The Jim Joseph Foundation approaches its work with "kavanah"-intention-to elevate the work of others in realizing its mission.