How do you build organizations and get funding to sustain projects? We spoke with Sandy Cardin President of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Foundation about funding and creating innovative Jewish programs. When Charles and Lynn Schusterman established their family foundation in 1987, they were led by a fierce determination to contribute their time and resources to the two communities closest to their hearts: k’lal Yisrael—Jewish peoplehood—and the people in their hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Together Charles and Lynn worked to fashion a philanthropic agenda dedicated to expanding, enriching and enhancing these communities. More than 20 years later, what started as a one-office foundation engaged almost exclusively in grantmaking is now a global network of programs, organizations and foundations that still hold true to the mission and values Charles and Lynn established with their initial investment.

Our story is the story of these values brought to life—a philanthropic vision in action. It is the story of the incredibly talented, committed individuals and organizations that inspire us every day and, with our support, transform lives, build communities and touch hearts. It is the story of an organization shaped by the vision of Day One and by the experiences of every day thereafter.