What We Fund

We identify visionaries, institutions and unsung heroes doing groundbreaking work, and we amplify their impact by providing financial and strategic support. We invest in areas that reflect our founder's passions and perspective, including diabetes care and research, Israel's cultural and economic vitality, interfaith bridge-building, elevating the profession of sales and strengthening community in New Jersey. 

Our Founder

Russell Berrie, founder, chairman and CEO of the celebrated gift company bearing his name, was one of the most innovative philanthropists of his generation. He approached philanthropy as a social investment, seeking out energetic leaders with a sense of urgency around their missions and infusing The Russell Berrie Foundation with an entrepreneurial spirit that continues to inspire our work. 

Featured
Inbal Magen.jpg
Welcoming Inbal Magen to the Foundation’s Israel team

The Foundation is thrilled to welcome Inbal Magen as its first Associate Program Officer in Israel. She brings an exceptional track record of strengthening relationships between public, business, and civil society organizations, as well as between Arab and Jewish communities.

READ MORE HERE

Hebrew benevolent society.jpg
Jewish American Heritage Month: A democracy of belonging

With both Jewish security and democratic norms at high risk, CEO Idana Goldberg argues in eJewish Philanthropy that foundation giving must recognize that the health of America’s democracy and security of Jewish life are inseparable priorities.

READ MORE HERE

Wexner crowd shot nighttime.jpg
Welcoming the Wexner Fellows: A new chapter of Jewish leadership in northern New Jersey

Twenty exceptional lay leaders are beginning a two-year journey to expand their leadership capacities, Jewish learning, and connections with diverse peers.

READ MORE HERE

Inheritance Theater sticky notes.jpg
Participatory theater builds bridges across Hoboken's siloed communities

Residents of Hoboken’s stratified neighborhoods discover that an innovative civic arts program can help them bridge divides to address a shared challenge – water.

READ MORE HERE

Elka planning group Evan Menachem 05.16.25.png
JDC-Elka works to rebuild and transform Israel’s North

The Foundation awarded $1 million to support JDC-Elka’s work in northern border communities to ensure the success of the government's recovery initiative.

READ MORE HERE

Honorees group shot_Russ_Berrie_Awards_088.jpg
Making a Difference Awards honor 10 changemakers for building a stronger New Jersey

These community champions are tackling some of the state's most pressing challenges — from homelessness and college readiness to breaking cycles of trauma and violence.

READ MORE HERE