Sun Sep 15 14:39:42 UTC 2024: ## Israeli Social Impact Group Mobilizes Amidst War and Crisis
**Tel Aviv, Israel** – Despite the ongoing conflict, the ROI Community, an initiative of Schusterman Family Philanthropies – Israel, continues to thrive, welcoming 55 new members this year and showcasing the power of social action in times of crisis.
With 1,700 members from the social, public, and business sectors, the community serves as a platform for networking, skill development, and supporting innovative initiatives. “It is inspiring to see people choose to address our main challenges even during wartime,” says Beri Rozenberg, Co-Director of ROI Community. “Some of the participants are reservists who haven’t been home for weeks – and now they are devoting their time and talent to social action.”
During the recent conflict, ROI members mobilized to support survivors of the massacre, create alternative educational frameworks for evacuated children, and lead nearly 100 emergency initiatives. Their work, according to ROI Co-Director Tamar Gil Menachem, “is not just about responding to crises; it’s about living with a sense of mission.”
This year’s summit, which brought together members from 13 countries, focused on combating antisemitism, building bridges to Israel, and supporting vulnerable populations. Participants have been working to increase international support for Israel, combatting delegitimization, and raising awareness of the October 7 atrocities.
Despite the war-related challenges, the community remains dedicated to tackling social issues, such as gender equality. “Gender equality is central to Schusterman’s philanthropic work,” explains Gil Menachem, “seen as key to both societal success and national security.”
As the Summit concludes, members will continue to work on a range of issues throughout the year, including the war’s aftermath, the rise in antisemitism, and the recovery process. “There is an immense mission here,” says Rozenberg, “and we always look for the best way to make an impact.”
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