Every day, Tidewater’s Jewish agencies, synagogues, and schools dream up new ways to educate, inspire, and connect the community. Tidewater Jewish Foundation helps make those visions real through its Community Impact Grant Program — funding catalytic projects that strengthen Jewish life across the region.
Awarded semiannually, the grant application period opened on November 15. These grants prioritize programs that deepen engagement, expand learning, and build lasting connections; investments that help institutions adapt and thrive amid changing needs.
“This program is about more than dollars,” says Ann Swindell, TJF’s grants manager. “It’s a springboard for ideas that bring people together, build capacity, and move our community forward.”
In the past year, Community Impact Grants have fueled a wide range of successful projects, including the following examples of B’nai Israel, Strelitz International Academy, William & Mary’s Hillel, and United Jewish Federation of Tidewater:
• B’nai Israel hosted a Maccabeats concert that drew hundreds and strengthened bonds across generations and denominations.
• Strelitz International Academy launched its Future Proofing Initiative, enhancing board leadership and planning, and later built a student recording studio that allows children to explore media, storytelling, and Jewish values.
• Hillel at William & Mary expanded its Israel Fellow Program, engaging more than 250 students through education and cultural programming.
• United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Multigenerational Giving Project brought donor families together to discuss legacy and the future of Jewish philanthropy.
As chair of the Grants Committee, Richard Saunders says he sees firsthand how these projects strengthen the community’s foundation. “The strongest proposals are the ones where organizations create programs that are truly needed and genuinely helpful,” Saunders says. “Brick-and-mortar needs matter, but it’s the programming that attracts current and future community members and that’s where these grants can be transformative.”
TJF invites all Jewish agencies, organizations, and synagogues in Tidewater to apply for the next round of Community Impact Grants. Whether envisioning a new educational program, community event, or strategic initiative, this funding opportunity can help bring ideas to life.
To learn more or apply, visit foundation.jewishva.org/community-impact-grants.