Jewish Future Promise Reaches 130K Signees

The Jewish Future Promise (JFP), a global movement inspiring Jews and allies to commit at least 50 percent of their charitable giving in their estate plans to Jewish causes or the State of Israel, announced its 130,000th signer: Professor Jack Wertheimer, one of the foremost scholars of American Jewish life. JFP has united more than 130,000 promisers in a common Jewish cause, securing an extraordinary $5.25 billion in commitments. This unprecedented show of solidarity highlights the steadfast dedication of individuals, families, and family foundations worldwide to champion Jewish causes and ensure the resilience of the State of Israel.

Wertheimer, professor emeritus of American Jewish history at the Jewish Theological Seminary, is widely recognized for his groundbreaking research on Jewish identity, philanthropy, and continuity. His influential works, including, “Jewish Giving: Philanthropy and the Shaping of American Jewish Life,” have shaped communal understanding of how Jewish philanthropy sustains identity and strengthens institutions.

“Jack Wertheimer has spent his career studying the trends that shape Jewish giving and Jewish continuity,” said Mike Leven, founder of the Jewish Future Promise. “It is only fitting that he himself would become a promiser, reinforcing not just through his scholarship but through his personal legacy that the Jewish future must be secured.”

In signing the Promise, Wertheimer emphasized that Jewish philanthropy is more than generosity; it is responsibility: “The Jewish Future Promise is a valuable tool to educate Jews about their obligations to one another. It encourages families to talk across generations, to share values, and to commit to enriching Jewish life now and into the future.”

“Professor Wertheimer’s signature represents more than a milestone,” said Hadara Ishak, president and COO of the Jewish Future Promise. “It symbolizes the bridge between deep Jewish scholarship and lived Jewish responsibility. His commitment reminds us that the Jewish future is not guaranteed unless we act boldly together.”

The Jewish Future Promise does not receive any of the pledged funds directly. Instead, they serve as a catalyst for meaningful intergenerational dialogue, inspiring individuals to ensure that a significant portion of their estate or planned charitable giving supports the Jewish community and/or the State of Israel.