For Jews around the globe, 2024 was a challenging and painful year. Since October 7th, our people have faced a constant drumbeat of antisemitism, discrimination and harassment. And since the beginning of the war, we’ve anxiously hoped for the return of the hostages held by Hamas.
As we continue to process the challenges of the past year, 2025 has begun auspiciously. As of this writing, seven hostages have safely returned home. The footage of them reuniting with their families uplifts the soul and gives us hope for what's to come.
Global events beyond our control inevitably impact us. However, our personal well-being and mental health are within our power to shape, allowing us to create a better year despite the challenges. On this theme, our latest op-ed, titled “Principles for a fruitful and fulfilling life to embrace in the new year” explores four practices to maximize physical and mental well-being in 2025 – staying mentally sharp, remaining physically active, maintaining a nutritious diet, and pursuing personal passions. In conjunction, these strategies can help cultivate joy and build resilience in the year ahead. Throughout the article we also explain how doing things you love creates positive physical and emotional impact.
In an article published in 2021, titled “How to Practice Philanthropy to Create a Lasting Impact”, we delve into our passion for philanthropy and the tangible results it can achieve. The piece highlights three primary approaches to major philanthropy—specific philanthropy, social club philanthropy, and strategic impact philanthropy—examining the strengths and limitations of each.
While all three forms of philanthropy are commendable and worthy of recognition, we emphasize that strategic impact philanthropy- also known as strategic venture philanthropy- offers the greatest return on investment. This approach has the unique potential to bring a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. It not only fosters a strong sense of community and legacy but also allows individuals to engage directly with organizations that champion causes they deeply care about.
By embracing practices that nurture our physical and mental well-being alongside strategic impact philanthropy, we not only enhance our own lives but also create a meaningful, lasting legacy for the communities we serve.
As we look ahead in 2025, let us challenge ourselves and each other to grow- nurturing our well-being, engaging in meaningful philanthropy, and striving to become the best versions of ourselves.
Lastly, we invite you to learn more about Capital Research Center, America's investigative think tank that researches, analyzes, and exposes the funders, activists, and policymakers shaping our society and public policies.
Wishing you a fantastic start to your New Year,
Gila and Adam Milstein
|