OU Impact Accelerator, a division of the Orthodox Union that supports promising Jewish nonprofits poised to transform the North American Jewish communal landscape in groundbreaking ways, is excited to announce the eight nonprofits from the United States and Canada that were selected to comprise the program’s sixth cohort.
Launched in 2018, OU Impact Accelerator offers education, coaching, and early-stage grants to select entrepreneurs committed to addressing Jewish community priorities, including Jewish education, mental health, chesed and financial literacy. Over the past six years, the department has allocated $330,000 to 25 new ventures dedicated to making a difference by addressing pressing communal issues through innovation.
The eight nonprofits were chosen from more than 85 applicants in a merit-based selection process that included an online application, interviews, and a final pitch night in front of the OU’s lay and professional leadership.
“We are beyond excited to welcome this exceptional group of social entrepreneurs to Cohort 6,” says OU Impact Accelerator director Tamar Frydman. “Each of these ventures is driving meaningful change in the Jewish community with bold, innovative solutions. Through mentorship, education and a grant, we look forward to helping them scale their impact and create lasting change. We can’t wait to see the incredible things they will continue to accomplish.”
For the next six months, the cohort will engage in an intensive nonprofit management curriculum, covering key areas such as management, strategy, operations, marketing, and fundraising. Additionally, there will be three in-person summits, with the first scheduled for March 25 and 26. The cohort will also participate in monthly Zoom workshops and benefit from networking and mentorship provided by both professional and lay leaders from the OU and abroad. These experiences will equip the passionate social entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage their nonprofits effectively and sustainably.
“Over the past six years, the leaders of the nonprofits supported by the OU Impact Accelerator have continued to exemplify the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of the North American Jewish community,” says OU executive vice president and COO Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph. “I’m excited for this year’s cohort to continue that legacy. Mazel tov to our newest members. We’re eager to watch you turn your ideas into reality with the incredible opportunities and guidance provided by the OU.”
OU Impact Accelerator congratulates the following social entrepreneurs upon their acceptance to Cohort Six:
A Single Impact, Inc., Shoshi Glazer, Baltimore
Designed for religious singles ages 21 to 75 and older, A Single Impact embraces participants as integral members of the Jewish community, each with unique contributions and gifts. The program offers resources and networking opportunities to foster meaningful connections. (Launched in 2020)
Atzmi, Marcy Forta, Detroit
Recognizing the vulnerability of teens to peer pressure and societal influences, Atzmi is a culturally-sensitive program tailored for Orthodox adolescents. It promotes positive self-esteem and body image while mitigating the risk factors for eating disorders. (Launched in 2021)
Chazkeinu, Zahava List, Baltimore
Chazkeinu supports Jewish women 18 and up to navigate their mental-health challenges and find healing within a connected community. Participants are welcomed regardless of their diagnoses, emotional struggles or religious backgrounds. (Launched in 2016)
Chesed Connects, Jack Huberfeld, Lawrence, N.Y.
With the vision of fostering a more compassionate community, Chesed Connects is a central address linking individuals eager to perform acts of chesed with those in need of support. (Launched in 2023)
Lifnai V’lifnim, Yehuda Chanales, Teaneck, N.J.
Lifnai V’Lifnim provides coaching, seminars, courses, and resources for educators, empowering them to strengthen their students’ and community members’ connections to Hashem, to one another, and to themselves. (Launched in 2021)
Shifrah: Guidance and Support for Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Shayna Safran, Chestnut Ridge, N.Y.
Shifrah educates and supports women, medical professionals, rabbis and bridal teachers about hyperemesis gravidarum, a debilitating condition affecting up to 10% of pregnancies. (Launched in 2024)
Team Protect, Fayna Pearlman and Nechama Tauber, Dumont, N.J., and Miami
Team Protect is dedicated to safeguarding the community and preventing child-centered tragedies, such as hot car deaths and drownings through awareness, advocacy, innovative safety solutions and grief support. (Launched in 2022)
Tikvaseinu, Elke Pollak and Henny Zolty, Monsey, N.Y., and Toronto
Tikvaseinu provides resources, along with individual and group support, to women experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, promoting their mental well-being and healing. (Launched in 2022)
Contact: Tamar Frydman, director, OU Impact Accelerator, 646-630-1549, frydmant@ou.org.