Rethinking Support: Giving Beyond the Check

When people think of giving to Israel or supporting the Jewish world, they often think in dollars. And yes, financial philanthropy is certainly important, even crucial, especially in times of crisis.

But we need to expand the conversation — because giving isn’t just about writing a check. To think that is extremely limiting — it excludes a huge portion of Jews in the US and around the world who would like to help Israel but aren’t in a financial position to do so.

Giving is About Vision

The truth of the matter is, you don’t need to be rich to give wholeheartedly to Israel — giving is about much more than writing a check — it’s about vision.
A vision of a strong Israel, both internally and internationally. Money is one driver of such strength, but there are others: Opportunity, mentorship, moral support, camaraderie. When you have a vision of what Israel can accomplish, you can figure out the means to help it do so. Some of the most impactful forms of giving I’ve seen come not from people with deep pockets, but from people with deep commitment. Below are five such types of giving, all of which are crucial, courageous, and impactful.

1. Time and expertise: You don’t need to be a millionaire to make an impact. If you have expertise in a certain area — medical, legal, education, tech, etc. — there is no shortage of startups and organizations that would love professional consultation or mentorship. Offer it pro bono.
   For example, a friend of mine, a fellow business owner in New York, doesn’t give millions, but every year, he mentors two young Israeli founders. He opens doors for them, helps them navigate the American market, and gives them a place in the room. That’s giving. And it might change the trajectory of someone’s life far more than a donation ever could.
2. Advocacy: Some of the most powerful supporters of Israel are those who do so with their voices. They are vocal friends, unafraid to correct misinformation and promote the image of a kind, moral country to international critics. In today’s climate, defending Israel on public platforms isn’t a given — it takes courage. And it’s this courage that gives Israelis the courage to face antisemitism and BDS that threaten their livelihoods — they know they’re not alone.
   And by the way, you don’t need thousands of followers to speak up for Israel — advocating within your own circle of friends is important too. Even one person you cause to think differently about Israel can have far-reaching effects.
3. Amplify Israeli voices: Not everyone may be comfortable advocating on behalf of Israel, but there are subtler ways to show support: Give a platform for Israeli voices to be heard. I’ve seen entrepreneurs go out of their way to invite Israeli founders to US conferences. I’ve heard podcasters feature Israeli educators, soldiers, and parents in an effort to humanize the headlines. And I’ve attended community events that host Israeli speakers whose personal stories leave lasting impressions.
4. Hire: We all know the old saying, “Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.” Loosely applied to our situation, American companies that need services and products should turn to Israeli providers and companies. They have been war-torn for the past two years and dealing with innumerable challenges prior to that. They don’t want charity, but they would love the opportunity to work. Hire them. Pay them. Give them the opportunity to excel. Who knows if you might be promoting the next Waze or Mobileye?
5. Visit: The Israeli economy relies heavily on tourism, which tanks every time there’s a war. Visiting Israel injects life into a much-struggling economy. You might think, what will my lone visit do for the economy? But it’s more than that — showing up matters.

These days, visiting Israel is a statement. A statement that you stand in support of the Jewish State. A Jewish friend of mine in the US grew up very unaffiliated and had never been to Israel — until a few months ago, when he decided it was time. I asked him, why now? Especially given the recent headlines. He said he felt he had to do something, and going there was a statement of where his heart stands.

Rethinking What Giving Means

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not rich enough to help,” think again. You don’t have to be a philanthropist to be a supporter. You just have to care — and act.
To be clear — financial support of Israel is important. Israel relies heavily on the financial support of Jews around the globe and is grateful for every dollar received.
But charity is not the only way to give. Give your time, your skills. Share your platform. Invest in startups, leaders. Speak up, connect, build.

This is what it means to support Israel. This is what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself.
The continuity of the Jewish State can’t be guaranteed by donors alone. It needs doers who have the heart, commitment, and drive to ensure its continual success.