About HEKDESH

HEKDESH grants are focused in three ways: 1) our overarching focus is empowering vulnerable populations; 2) HEKDESH makes grants only to organizations with annual budgets less than $10 million; 3) Per our by-laws, one semi-finalist organization each year must have “activities substantially related to the State of Israel.” In practice, most of our grants are to organizations based in Israel. In recent years, refugee rights and underserved populations in Israel have emerged as targets of particular interest to our members, but our “big tent,” relatively open nominations process ensures that our grantmaking can continue to be responsive to member interests.

- We have a robust set of materials for learning/thinking about tzedakah/giving that combine Jewish text, contemporary articles, and discussion questions.
- We have a unique model for alumni engagement
We are a virtual giving circle.
- We have a low financial barrier to entry.