Ruderman Family Foundation

The Ruderman Family Foundation believes that inclusion and understanding of all people is essential to a fair and flourishing community. Guided by our Jewish values, we support effective programs, innovative partnerships, and a dynamic approach to philanthropy in our core areas of interest: advocating for and advancing awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health among young adults; fostering a more nuanced understanding of the American Jewish community among Israeli leaders; and modeling the practice of strategic philanthropy worldwide. The Foundation provides funding, leadership, expertise, and insight in both the U.S. and Israel. 

The work of the Ruderman Family Foundation reflects our core values of social justice, innovation, collaboration, and agility. We seek to publicize broadly what we do in our programs and how we do it, in order to inspire full inclusion and to encourage strategic philanthropy.

The Foundation is deeply involved in advocacy and speaks out publicly against injustices, which is why we are cited and mentioned in nation-wide media outlets on a weekly basis. Furthermore, our Ruderman White Papers are on the forefront of bringing previously undiscussed issues to the national conversation and to the public consciousness.

The Foundation maintains close working relationships with its program partners and grantees. Unlike some other foundations, it does not accept unsolicited applications for support. The Foundation issues an invitation to partner only after a thorough analysis indicates shared vision, innovation, organizational strength, and a willingness to closely collaborate. It seeks out other major funders with which to partner and promotes broad information sharing about successes in its mission. Foundation staff are very involved in program development and remain very involved in major programs funded over multiple years. Single-year and pilot programs are also thoroughly monitored.