Shmukler Steps Up for Jewish National Fund-USA

At a time when younger generations are often viewed as disengaged from philanthropy and communal leadership, Atlanta’s Jewish community is telling a different story.

Jewish National Fund-USA’s Atlanta Board of Directors now includes four members of JNFuture, the organization’s young professionals group ages 22-40, reflecting a growing wave of young Jewish leaders who are actively shaping the future of Jewish philanthropy. Among them is Jacob Shmukler, a first-generation former USSR immigrant whose personal history and commitment to Jewish continuity have shaped his path to leadership.

Shmukler, who was born and raised in Atlanta after his family immigrated from the former Soviet Union in 1980, grew up immersed in stories of Jewish perseverance, resilience, and gratitude for the freedoms his family found in the United States. Those experiences, he says, shaped both his Jewish identity and a deep sense of responsibility to give back.

“My sisters and I were the first ones in our family to have bar and bat mitzvahs, to have Jewish weddings, to be able to go to synagogue,” Shmukler shared. “I understood from a very young age how blessed we are to be here, and that we have an obligation to protect and strengthen Jewish life, both here and in Israel.”

Shmukler joined Jewish National Fund-USA’s Atlanta Board in September 2025 after years of engagement as a donor and advocate. He currently serves as co-chair of recruitment for the organization’s annual Gladys & Jack Hirsch Breakfast for Dinner, an event aimed at showing solidarity with Israel and recognizing the work of Jewish National Fund-USA in rebuilding and reimagining a stronger Israel. The major event was held on Sunday, March 15, and featured chef Lior Lev Sercarz, co-founder and chief culinary officer of the Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF.

Shmukler also serves on the Board of Jewish Kids Group (JKG), an organization focused on building Jewish life locally through aftercare and education, but he views Jewish National Fund-USA as a vehicle for strengthening Jewish life on a global scale.

“I think about Jewish philanthropy in two categories,” he explained. “Building Jewish life in America and building Jewish life beyond it. JNF-USA does the latter exceptionally well. I love that the dollars raised are going directly to communities in Israel and being used responsibly and purposefully. That’s what motivates me to stay involved.”

As part of the Atlanta Board, Shmukler joins a growing cohort of young professionals and emerging leaders who are choosing to be public about their support for Israel and Jewish causes at a time when many feel pressure to remain quiet.

“There are far more young Jews who care deeply than people realize,” Shmukler said. “Many practice Judaism, talk about Israel at home, and surround themselves with their Jewish community, but it’s harder to express these things publicly now. Seeing more JNFuture members step into leadership roles shows that the next generation isn’t disengaged. We’re still committed; we’re just navigating a different environment.”

JNF-USA’s Atlanta Board reflects this evolution in multigenerational leadership, welcoming accomplished professionals in their 40s and 50s whose diverse experiences and perspectives strengthen the organization’s circles of impact. Through clear pathways to involvement, the organization continues to cultivate young Jewish leaders prepared to turn conviction into action. Other younger Jewish leaders chosen to serve on the Board are Meredith Sunshine, in-town community leader; Adam Ginsberg, co-chair of the Atlanta Community Campaign; and Jordan Ross, National JNFuture Board member.

“Through our nominating process, we seek individuals — often next-generation leaders — who are ready to ‘dig in’ to advance JNF-USA’s vision,” said Andy Siegel, president, Jewish National Fund-Atlanta. “Jacob is one such board member. He has a passion for our strategic goals and is a sponge in wanting to learn more. He has become a tremendous asset, alongside the other young leaders helping shape our Board.”

As young members expand their presence within Jewish National Fund-USA’s Atlanta leadership, the message is clear: the next generation is stepping forward.

For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA, JNFuture, or leadership opportunities in Atlanta, or to register for the upcoming Gladys & Jack Hirsch Breakfast for Dinner, please visit jnf.org.