The Ben-Gurion Society is a new-to-Seattle affinity group that is all about passionate young philanthropists (ages 21-45) amplifying their impact and creating change within our community.

“I’m thrilled to chair the inaugural Ben Gurion Society here in Seattle, because I am on a mission to engage young Jewish adults through bold leadership, inspired giving, and diverse experiences to build and sustain a vibrant Jewish community in Seattle and around the world.

Whether it’s something inherently Jewish, like a young leader’s Shabbat or attending a happy hour with Jewish friends, we hope the Ben-Gurion Society will provide space to find or build your Jewish philanthropic community, which can be hard to find and do on your own.

Looking forward to celebrating our newest giving tier, while creating something meaningful and inspiring with your commitment and generous contributions to the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle.” 

                 – Stephanie Shujman, BGS Advisory Committee Chair

Upcoming Events

Israeli Wine Tasting Night | Wednesday, December 11 | 6pm – 8pm

Join us for a fun evening featuring an Israeli wine tasting experience, curated by David Isenberg, the Federation’s Immediate Past Board Chair and passionate wine enthusiast. 

Federation’s shinshinim, Israeli youth ambassadors, will also be with us to share their experiences in Seattle and infuse the event with Israeli culture. Join us to discover how the Federation addresses critical needs overseas and see firsthand the impact of your donation in Israel.

Kosher wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and appetizers will be served.

Members of the Ben-Gurion Society (BGS) Will…

  • Join forces with local and national networks of like-minded individuals who share a passion for philanthropy and community building;
  • Gain access to special events at private homes with distinguished speakers;
  • Engage with local community leaders;
  • Engage in business, social, networking, and volunteering opportunities;
  • Collaborate, network, and forge meaningful relationships that extend far beyond the boundaries of each event;
  • Create a collective force that shapes the future of Seattle’s Jewish community.

BGS is open to individuals ages 21-45 who make a generous contribution of $1,000 or more to their Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. Your support will directly fuel crucial programs and initiatives that address the pressing needs of our community, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

BGS draws inspiration from the principles of David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s visionary first prime minister. He encouraged young adults to harness their power, passion, and resources to create a strong and responsible Jewish community, both locally and globally.

Where Does My Donation Go?

Your generous donation contributes directly to the Federation’s Annual Campaign, enabling us to tackle the most pressing challenges and seize the greatest opportunities in our community. Your contribution supports the creation of a vibrant Jewish community in Seattle, as well as the care for Jews in need in Israel and around the world. It helps individuals connect with Jewish life, provides formative Jewish experiences for children and teens, advocates for our community through the Jewish Community Relations Council, and ensures our community’s safety through SAFE Washington, just to name a few of the impactful initiatives.

All new donors who join the Ben-Gurion Society before June 30, 2025, will be eligible for a 1:1 match from a generous anonymous donor.

Take your philanthropy to new heights by becoming a BGS member today and make a lasting difference in the Puget Sound Jewish community. Join this passionate and committed group of Jewish young adults.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in getting involved, contact:
Tori Schwartz | Director of Development |  toris@jewishinseattle.org