Tzedakah in Action: Andres Spokoiny on Jewish Philanthropy

What does it mean to give—and why does Jewish tradition place such deep emphasis on tzedakah?

In this episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy-Award-winning journalist Jon Frankel explore the Jewish ethics of giving and the real-world challenges of philanthropy today. From childhood memories of the classic blue-and-white tzedakah box to questions about how we teach generosity to the next generation, the conversation examines how giving shapes both personal character and communal responsibility.

They’re joined by Andres Spokoiny, President and CEO of the Jewish Funders Network, who works with philanthropists around the world to expand and strengthen Jewish giving. Spokoiny shares insights from his global perspective on philanthropy—from the importance of strategic giving and collaboration to the challenges of fighting antisemitism, supporting Jewish education, and preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

Along the way, the conversation tackles big questions:
How should philanthropists decide where to give?
What makes charitable giving truly effective?
And in an age of crisis and rapid change, how can philanthropy help build a stronger future for Jewish life?

From ancient teachings to modern strategy, this episode explores how tzedakah isn’t just about charity—it’s about responsibility, leadership, and shaping the world we want to live in.

Jewish Funders Network
https://www.jfunders.org/

Andres Spokoiny:
https://www.andres-spokoiny.com/

Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:

https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrove

https://x.com/RabbiCosgrove

Park Avenue Synagogue:
https://www.pasyn.org

https://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/#

Jon Frankel:

https://www.instagram.com/skifrankel

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