Jewish Life Network

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The Jewish Life Network (Steinhardt Foundation) is a New York based non-profit foundation, which funds projects and programs aimed at improving Jewish education and identity.

The JLN was founded by former hedge fund manager Michael Steinhardt in 1994, who disbanded his financial practice to focus on philanthropy. Since then, the JLN has disbursed over $100 million^[1] to various educational, cultural and service causes, including starting and/or funding the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education in 1997; Makor at the 92nd Street Y; the Steinhardt School of Education and the recent Steinhardt Social Research Institute at Brandeis University.^[2] Along with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, the JLN sponsors the annual Grinspoon-Steinhardt Awards for Excellence in Jewish Education.

In 1999, JLN initiated one of its signature programs, birthright Israel, to provide young Jewish persons, age 18 to 26 years old, the opportunity to tour Israel for the first time.

The current president of the Jewish Life Network is Rabbi Irving "Yitz" Greenberg.

Since 1998, the JLN has published "Contact" a quarterly journal aiming "to stimulate discussion throughout the community on the most effective programs and ideas that will help to revitalize American Jewish life."

[edit] See also

• Michael Steinhardt
• birthright israel
• Jewish education

[edit] External links

• Jewish Life Network Web site
• Steinhardt Social Research Institute

[edit] References

1. ^ "Brandeis establishes institute to enable Jewish community to better plan its future", Brandeis University news, April 1, 2005.
2. ^ "New institute aims to move Jewish demographics way ahead", Jewish Telegraphic Agency, April 13, 2005.