Schusterman Philanthropic Network Launches Global Connection Points

“Connection Points are the next chapter in ROI Community’s story.
In 2014 we will focus on maximizing the ripple effect of these gatherings to reach even more promising leaders in every corner of the Jewish world.
This work will inform and inspire the 2015 ROI Summit.”
Justin Korda, Executive Director ROI Community

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The Schusterman Philanthropic Network (SPN) is launching Schusterman Connection Points, a new initiative that puts young Jewish leaders at the helm of creating a series of gatherings around the world. Designed as a new and meaningful way for young Jews to assemble with purpose, Connection Points are part of SPN’s broader investment in organizations and programs that empower young leaders to take an active role in shaping a vibrant Jewish future.

In 2014, Schusterman Connection Points will include 11 thematic, peer-led gatherings that will bring together more than 500 young Jews worldwide. The gatherings expand SPN’s suite of opportunities for Jewish young adults and build on last year’s successful pilot program run through Schusterman’s ROI Community, a global network of innovative Jewish entrepreneurs and leaders. Thus far, 31 members of the ROI Community have been trained to convene Connection Point gatherings.

As the Connection Points program is scaled in 2014, ROI’s annual flagship Summit will be on hiatus and will resume in full swing in 2015.

“Ultimately our goal is to help build a Jewish community that is more relevant, dynamic and compelling to future generations,” said Lynn Schusterman, chair of the Schusterman Philanthropic Network. “I believe young people know the best way to do that, and we must invest in their passion and potential for driving change.”

The 11 Schusterman Connection Points for 2014 will cover a range of themes, including the arts, technology, community building, international development, inclusivity, social justice and more. The gatherings (and locations)  include:

• Mata-Maala, Young Jerusalem Activism Conference (Israel)
• ID², Israeli Designed International Development (Israel)
• Asylum Arts, International Jewish Artist Retreat (USA)
• The Magid Project, Promoting social activism through storytelling (Israel)
• Junno, Innovative Judaic Inspiration Salon (Israel)
• Lazos, Roots building the future (Argentina)
• Tikkun Olam Hackathon, 72 Hours to Save the World (Israel)
• Eighteen:22, Writing the next chapter on LGBTQ Jewish community and inclusion (USA)
• Retreatology, The art of Jewish retreat-making (USA)
• From Me to We, Between Tribal and Global (Hungary)
• Platforma, International Professional Development Summit for RuJew Community Initiators (USA)

For more information about these gatherings and the young leaders convening them, visit www.schusterman.org/schusterman-connection-points.