In this powerful episode of Wisdom from the Field, I sit down with Rabbi Sholom Duchman, director of Colel Chabad — the oldest continuously operating charity in Israel, founded by the Alter Rebbe in 1788.

Rabbi Duchman shares over four decades of fundraising experience, from starting with no donor base to building a global network of supporters — all while staying deeply connected to the Rebbe’s guidance. You’ll hear how the Rebbe shaped Colel Chabad’s approach, including:

Reversing the usual fundraising mindset — seeing donor engagement as part of the mission, not just a means to fund it

The power of continuous giving — why the pushka model still works in the digital age

Engaging donors with Torah — turning every meeting into a chance to share inspiration

Thinking out of the box — never settling for “what worked last year”

Extreme care with donor funds — treating every dollar as sacred

We also dive into the power of asking — why a bad ask is better than no ask — and the importance of being unafraid to hear “no.”

Finally Rabbi Duchman shares his feeling that people don’t connect with us because of how impressive we are, but because we bring them something authentic, something real — the Rebbe’s vision and a mission worth partnering with.

If you’ve ever hesitated to make the ask, feared rejection, or wanted to infuse your fundraising with more authenticity and spiritual connection, this conversation will give you clarity, courage, and real-world tools.

🎧 Listen in and be inspired to “take the bull by the horns” in your own fundraising journey.

For more on the work that I do with Shluchim check out my website: coachingbytzviki.com