Who Gets to Define Zionism?
Thursday, February 19, 2026
| | | | | | | | | | | What does it mean that only 37% of American Jews identify as Zionists, yet nearly 9-in-10 support Israel’s existence as a Jewish and democratic state? JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny explores how the term “Zionism” became so distorted, shaped by propaganda, extremism, and a widening educational gap. For Jewish leaders and funders, the stakes are not semantic but strategic: who defines our core ideas, and what happens when we outsource that work to others? Spokoiny argues that reclaiming Zionism through serious learning and intellectual clarity is essential. Read the full article in eJewish Philanthropy here. | | | | |
| | | | | | | Should your foundation accept unsolicited proposals? In the latest installment of Foundations in Focus, Yossi Prager, Senior Managing Director of JFN Consulting, explores the strategic tradeoffs behind this common governance question. While openness can surface new ideas and emerging organizations, it can also divert time and attention from core priorities. Yossi offers a nuanced perspective on how thoughtful policy combined with intellectual flexibility can help foundations stay both disciplined and open to unexpected opportunity. Read more in Foundations in Focus. | | | | |
| | | | | | | JFN International Conference attendees are invited to celebrate Shabbat together as a community in San Diego starting Friday evening, March 13. Join an intimate group for an experience that provides rich content and creates space for deeper conversations about our shared heritage. Learn more in the Conference Attendee Hub. Preparing for the JFN International Conference? We are hosting two upcoming Zoom orientations to help you make the most of your experience. New members and first-time attendees are invited to join a special introductory session on February 26 to learn how to navigate the conference and connect meaningfully within the network. Attendees coming from Israel are invited to a dedicated Hebrew-language orientation on March 1, which will include insights from Moshe Samuels on what is currently shaping American Jewish thought and philanthropy. This session will be held in Hebrew. Register for the New Member and First-Timer Orientation here.
Register for the Israeli Delegation Orientation here. The JFN International Conference is designed to foster meaningful connections among JFN members. If you are attending and interested in meeting others who share your philanthropic interests, whether through focused discussion or informal time over coffee or a meal, our team can help. Complete this form and the JFN Concierge team will assist in connecting you with fellow members. | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | Pave the way to a successful member experience by ensuring your profile is up to date. Find more professionals, get matched up with like-minded peers, and benefit from their professional skills and experiences. Login to your profile today to browse the directory and other resources we have available for you. - JFN Consulting offers personalized philanthropic services to individuals, families and foundations. Senior Managing Director Yossi Prager is available for one consultation session (up to two hours) to JFN members free of charge. Click here to reserve your complimentary consultation with Yossi
- Israel Advisory Services provide in-depth workshops, mapping, strategic planning, and advice to help you fund more effectively, from top experts in Israeli philanthropy
- JFN’s Concierge service aims to provide each member with a personalized user experience that addresses all of their philanthropic needs
- Members who wish to consult about giving to Iron Swords-related needs can contact Anat Danis
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| | | | | | Opportunities in Los Angeles: Honeycomb has launched the applications for the 2026-2027 cohorts for two initiatives specifically for Los Angeles-based organizations. Participating communities receive training, curriculum, mentoring, and a microgrant. See more information here about iGive LA and LAunchpad. | | | | |
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| | | | | | | | Gil Preuss and Ted Sasson examine how Jewish organizations should respond to the widening range of views about Israel within our own communities. Rather than ignore the tension or retreat from contested language, they argue for modeling a confident, inclusive Zionism that strengthens communal bonds while making room for real disagreement. Read more.
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