Jewish Community Partners

The Jewish Foundation of Memphis is excited to be celebrating major milestones this year: 30 years since its establishment in 1995 and surpassing $200 million in assets.

Led by co-chairs Lawson Arney and Jason Salomon, the Foundation will honor three decades of philanthropic growth, culminating with a gala celebration being held December 10, 2025 at Memphis Botanic Garden.

“The growth that we’ve experienced over the past 30 years far surpassed the expectations of our original founders,” said Jason.  “I am honored to have served as a past board chair and now as a co-chair of this milestone anniversary.”

The Jewish Foundation of Memphis was established 30 years ago with a clear mission: to secure the financial future of local Jewish agencies, including synagogues, Jewish schools, and community and care facilities. With a focus on Legacy Giving, the Foundation works with 11 different partner agencies to ensure they are discussing legacy gifts with their donors and focusing on long-term endowment growth.

“Thirty years ago, a visionary group of community leaders determined that a shared endowment resource was a critical step in ensuring our agencies would be in existence well into the future,” said Laura Linder President and CEO of Jewish Community Partners.  “I have been part of this organization for two decades and it’s amazing to see its growth and impact.”

Over the past three decades, the Foundation has made an enormous impact. Assets have grown to more than $200 million and through the Foundation donors have granted over $167 million to Jewish, secular, local, and national organizations. While Memphis is home to larger foundations, the Jewish Foundation’s influence on the community far surpasses its size. 

“In 2023, the Jewish Foundation was ranked by the Memphis Business Journal as the third largest grantmaker in Memphis. More than $21 million in charitable grants were distributed to local and national charitable organizations,” continued Linder. “The support of our incredible donors positions the Foundation to remain a cornerstone of the Jewish and broader community for decades to come, continuing its vital work of fostering philanthropy and Jewish life in Memphis.”

Throughout the remainder of 2025, the Foundation will showcase its history, the impact of its donors, and key moments that shaped its vital role in the community,

“Given all of the challenges we are facing in the world, it’s heartening to know that through the work of the Jewish Foundation we are able to strengthen so many charitable organizations,” said co-chair Lawson Arney.  “We have a lot to celebrate.”