The world of philanthropy and social impact is undergoing rapid change. 

We’re living longer. Now we just need to learn how to live better.

The first Greenbook is “Jewish Day School Financial Sustainability and Affordability: A Guide for Funders,” by Daniel M. Held, a doctoral student at the Jewish Theological Seminary. It was reviewed by an advisory group of active day school funders.

NEW YORK, January 9, 2014—The Jewish Funders Network today launched a series of guides aimed at supporting funders to optimize the impact of their giving.

Called Greenbooks, they are written specifically for funders. Each guide will focus on a specific funding area in the Jewish community, outline issues, strategies and approaches funders can utilize as they seek to effect change.

Most philanthropic milestones know no religious or cultural boundaries. Still, some Jewish traditions add extra dimensions to the journey of giving. Tzedakah commands Jews to give as an act of justice, rather than to burnish one’s virtue.

Seven foundations match pledges from JFN Members to pursue human rights, sustainable agriculture, and economic and social justice projects.