Prominent Massachusetts philanthropist and author of Finding Happiness, Todd Patkin, has announced a transformative $5 million philanthropic investment in the World Zionist Village, a planned 16-acre campus that will become the first global hub for Zionists everywhere.
The $350 million World Zionist Village, to be located in Beersheva, the heart of Israel’s south, will feature state-of-the-art centers for Zionist education, leadership training, dialogue and community building. Patkin’s contribution will expand the village’s reach, fund innovative programming and empower the next generation of Zionist leaders.
His philanthropic commitment will be recognized through a “Patkin Pathway,” a prominent path leading to the village’s main entrance.
“I have always believed that happiness and hope are deeply interconnected,” said Patkin. “The World Zionist Village represents an extraordinary opportunity to bring people together in celebration of our shared heritage, working together toward a future filled with promise for Zionism and the Jewish people.”
Patkin grew up in Needham, Mass., and graduated from Tufts University before spending nearly two decades successfully growing his family’s business. Following the company’s acquisition by Advance Auto Parts in 2005, he shifted his focus to his true passions: philanthropy, family, community and helping others find greater happiness. His bestselling book, Finding Happiness, shares his insights and life lessons, inspiring readers worldwide to live with more purpose, joy and resilience.
“Todd’s vision and generosity are nothing short of inspiring,” said Russell F. Robinson, CEO of Jewish National Fund-USA. “He’s not just a supporter, he’s a catalyst for change. His spark has ignited the imaginations of millions around the world. Todd understands our vision and plays a vital role in bringing it to life. The Patkin Pathway, bearing his name at the entrance of the village, will stand as a welcoming gateway for the global community—a pathway to the world.”
Patkin’s major philanthropic investment in the village reflects his deep-rooted commitment to Jewish values, community empowerment and the enduring dream of a vibrant future for the land and people of Israel.
During a recent visit, Patkin met with Robinson as well as with Ira Green, CEO of the World Zionist Village, and Boaz Meir, the village’s international development director. Together, they reviewed the architectural master plan and development vision created by HQ Architects. The group also met with the mayor of Beersheva, Reuven “Ruvik” Danilovich, who expressed enthusiastic support for the village and shared his belief in its potential to positively impact the city’s ecosystem and its global significance.
“This village will transform how people perceive Beersheva, the capital of the Negev,” said Danilovich. “The village carries a vital mission: to attract young people from across the globe to this historic city. How fitting that it will rise in Beersheva, the city of our forefather Abraham, where our shared destiny began. A strong Negev means a strong Israel. Through your vision, motivation and leadership, you’re strengthening both the Negev and Israel itself.”
For more information, visit worldzionistvillage.org. Contact: Limor Ben Arie, lbenarie@jnf.org, 212-879-9305, ext. 651.
