JFN West Regional Convening
Big Ideas, Deep Engagement

JFN’s West Regional Convening in San Francisco brought together more than 90 funders from across the region for a day of learning and strategy. JFN CEO Andrés Spokoiny opened the day, followed by morning Strategy Labs exploring the role of philanthropy in today’s political climate with Robert C. Reich(Stanford University), antisemitism and impact with Debra Feldstein, and the future of Jewish life with Josh Miller(Jim Joseph Foundation). 

In the midday plenary, JFN EVP Rabbi Rebecca W. Sirbu presented on the state of philanthropy in Israel, followed by lively table discussions. Afternoon sessions continued the momentum with Imran Ahmed(Center for Countering Digital Hate) on technology, democracy, and philanthropy; Steven Windmueller (HUC-JIR) on reclaiming our place in civic life; and Rachel Sumekh (TEN: Together Ending Need) on accessibility and affordability in Jewish life. The day concluded with Max August’s closing plenary, Leading with Purpose: What the Moment Demands of Jewish Philanthropy.

The conversations were thoughtful, the energy was palpable, and the sense of shared purpose filled every room. As funders across the West continue to build, question, and dream together, gatherings like this remind us why community, and the conversations that happen within it, matter so deeply.

Pro-Democracy Philanthropy Series
What We’ve Learned and What’s Ahead

Over the past several months, JFN members have been diving deep into one of the most urgent questions of our time: how philanthropy can strengthen democracy in Israel, the United States, and beyond. Through this eight-part series hosted by Dr. Tali Yariv-Mashal, funders have explored topics such as the coexistence of Jewish and democratic values, political giving, media and misinformation, and the role of education and higher education in sustaining democracies.

JFN members can revisit all six sessions so far, including Don’t Take Democracy for Granted, Can Jewish and Democratic Coexist?, and Media & Misinformation: The Crisis of Trust and the Role of Philanthropy, via the playlist in our members-only video library.

Two thought-provoking sessions remain:

These final discussions promise to build on the insights and momentum of the series, offering practical and ethical frameworks for funders seeking to defend and renew democracy.

The JFN 2026 International Conference website is now live. Click here to stay up to date on programs, plenaries, and more.

Exclusive early registration for JFN Members opens November 12, 2025 at 11:00am ET, with general registration opening December 10, 2025.Mark your calendar and register early to reserve your spot. Be a part of the philanthropic conversations which will determine the Jewish future at this crucial time!

If you’re a JFN member, make sure to take advantage of early access to secure your spot. If you are eligible, we encourage you to consider becoming a JFN member to enjoy exclusive benefits like early conference registration, as well as access to our year-round programming and resources.