About the Supporting Foundation
The Stanley J. Bushman Supporting Foundation honors our namesake’s legacy through bold, strategic philanthropy that strengthens Jewish life in Kansas City.
Our funding initiatives expand participation in Jewish life, deepen connection and belonging, strengthen leadership and Jewish organizational capacity, foster collaborative across the community, and advance innovative approaches to communal challenges.
Vision
Our vision is to boldly change the trajectory of Jewish life in Kansas City by making catalytic investments that increase engagement, develop leaders, and build a vibrant, connected and resilient community.
Funding Areas
The Foundation has three primary funding areas.
1. GROW JEWISH ENGAGEMENT
We support efforts that expand participation in Jewish life while deepening identity, connection, and belonging. We prioritize initiatives that:
- Engage young families and individuals at key life stages
- Create welcoming entry points into Jewish life
- Reduce barriers to participation
- Foster lasting connections among individuals, families, and Jewish organizations
- Connect those who are new or disconnected from the Jewish community
2. BUILD COMMUNITY CAPACITY
We invest in capacity-building programs to strengthen organizations and effective leaders, helping build a sustainable, thriving community. We prioritize initiatives that:
- Recruit, develop, and retain outstanding professional leaders
- Strengthen lay leadership and governance
- Expand leadership development and peer-learning opportunities
- Improve organizational effectiveness and infrastructure
- Encourage collaboration and shared solutions to community challenges
3. SUPPORT SPECIAL PROJECTS
We support strategic opportunities that reflect Stanley’s vision and have the potential to create significant community impact. These efforts are primarily focused on emerging community needs, innovative or time-sensitive opportunities, and collaborative initiatives with broad community impact.
Our Approach
The Foundation believes lasting change is built through strong partnerships. We work closely with community organizations to identify opportunities, shape promising ideas, and invest in initiatives with potential for meaningful impact.
Our grantmaking is focused on programs and initiatives and is highly collaborative, with proposals typically developed in partnership with grantees. As a result, we do not accept unsolicited proposals or provide general operating support. If you have an idea you believe aligns with the Foundation’s priories, we welcome you to share it through our intake form for consideration.
Contact
For more information, please contact Bailey Nakelsky, Bushman Supporting Foundation executive director at bnakelsky@jcfkc.org.
Read About Our Impact
Bushman Supporting Foundation makes major gift to JCF to strengthen community through planned giving
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art Announces $1 Million Gift from the Stanley J. Bushman Foundation
About Stanley Bushman
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