CTW Special Issue

In light of the horrific events that are currently ongoing in Israel, I have paused what would have been my third newsletter issue. However, I committed to publishing every Tuesday and am determined to stick to it, so I will voice my thoughts here when I typically would be quiet.

For those of us in the U.S. who celebrate two days of Shemini Atzeret, yesterday was the day we discovered that the world as we know it has fallen off its axis. Though we are physically far from the terror, we feel paralyzed in a haze of uncertainty. With shattered hearts and distracted minds, how can we carry on with business as usual? And yet, what else can we do? I know I don't only speak for myself when I say I have a family who needs to be cared for, a business with employees and clients who rely on me, and many other responsibilities. The train of life barrels forward, heeding no thought to the carnage taking place miles away.

As we all somehow managed to do during the pandemic, I suppose that for the time being, we will adapt to a new normal: a 'normal' life where we carry on with our daily tasks while somehow keeping our eyes and ears glued to the news of friends, family, and fellow Jews, where we pray constantly, and find small ways to show support where we can.

Although my mind has not really been focused on work, I cannot help but notice the absolute barrage of desperate fundraising campaigns pouring into my inbox, text messages, and WhatsApp groups. It's almost unthinkable that only a few short weeks ago, some of these same organizations asking for funds to support Israel in various ways were relying on raffles and other similar incentives to raise money. During times like these, no stunts are needed, and I hope everyone with any funds to spare whatsoever will grab the opportunity to provide their financial support where it is needed.

In keeping with the format of my previous newsletters, I want to end off with practical advice.

For Nonprofits

• If your nonprofit is directly involved with helping those affected by the current circumstances, now is the time for your supporters to step up. Send regular updates to your donors explaining your specific needs, and provide clear instructions for how they can get involved. If you are launching a mass campaign to attract new donors, make sure to emphasize the credibility of your organization and the specific way you help (vs. the masses of other organizations that are making similar requests).
• If your nonprofit is not directly involved, you must now figure out how to publicly show your support without actually diverting your attention or resources from the population you serve. This is a tricky balance that requires very thoughtful messaging and action; feel free to reach out to me directly if you need any specific suggestions.

For Businesses

In the previous issue of this newsletter, I brought up the idea of mission-driven businesses solving communal problems via strategic corporate philanthropy. I want to be very clear that a crisis of this magnitude is not the time to be strategic; it is the time to simply do as much to help as you possibly can. If your business is in a position to provide goods, services, or funds to the people affected by the attacks in Israel, then do so –?and then share what you did in order to inspire other businesses to do the same.

If you're concerned that you'll be inundated with an overwhelming number of requests, I suggest partnering with a credible organization instead of trying to handle it yourself. Running your business into the ground in the name of trying to help will not serve anyone in the long run. Also, working with an organization that already has boots on the ground in Israel can make your efforts that much more effective, with resources going directly where they're needed most.

For Community Leaders and Changemakers (and everyone else)

It has been a glimmer of hope in a very bleak time to watch our community leaders step up and rally their communities. Those with connections in the government are using their voices to lobby on behalf of Israel and provide aid where it is needed.

For the rest of us. I know we're all feeling very helpless and want to do something, but it's difficult to wade through the countless requests for donations. Some are from well-known organizations, some from organizations we've never heard of, and some are personal pleas from family members. If your shul, school, or community leader is endorsing a particular fund, I would start there so you can trust that your funds will be well spent. As another option, I personally have a long-standing relationship with One Israel Fund, an incredible organization that is literally on the frontlines of this war, so I definitely recommend them as a cause deserving of your support.

Hoping and praying for a speedy end to this horrific war,

Tzivia Cohen

P.S. If I can be of any help to you or your nonprofit during this time, please don't hesitate to contact me on LinkedIn or via email at [email protected].