For Jewish Communal Fund Fundholder Daniel Posner, giving back isn’t just an act of generosity, it’s a calling rooted in identity, purpose, and action. With a philanthropic journey shaped by Jewish values, a deep love for Israel, and a passion for sports, Posner has created a powerful platform for education and advocacy through his nonprofit, Athletes For Israel. His work exemplifies how strategic philanthropy can be both deeply personal and widely impactful.
A Lifelong Commitment to Community
Posner’s philanthropic roots run deep. Raised in a home where tzedakah was both a value and a practice, he grew up with a strong sense of responsibility to give back. “My parents were always community-oriented and encouraged my brothers and me to be involved and engage with the community,” he shares. “Charity was embedded into my lifestyle.”
This foundation would shape his lifelong connection to giving, particularly in ways that align with his identity as a practicing Jew. “From giving coins to tzedakah boxes as a child to supporting causes close to my heart as an adult, giving is a core part of who I am. I was raised to care about Israel and to stand up against antisemitism. Those values have remained central to my activism.”
Merging Passion and Purpose: The Birth of Athletes For Israel
Over time, Posner’s strategic philanthropy evolved from supporting causes to building movements. As an avid sports fan and ardent Zionist, he saw an opportunity to merge his passions and address a growing concern: the portrayal of Israel in the media and the rise in antisemitism worldwide.
“I felt compelled to do something,” he says. “Sports have the unique power to bring people together. I realized we could use that influence to help reshape the narrative around Israel.”
That insight led to the creation of Athletes For Israel, an initiative that brings top athletes on immersive trips to Israel. This offers top athletes and their millions of fans an authentic view of the country beyond the headlines. From the historic streets of Jerusalem to the beaches of Tel Aviv, athletes experience Israel firsthand and share those moments through social media, reaching audiences who might not otherwise engage with the region in a meaningful way.
Real-World Impact That Resonates
The ripple effect of these experiences has been profound. One particularly moving example came in August 2023, when Posner and his team brought the University of Arizona men’s basketball team to Israel. University President Dr. Bobby Robbins joined the trip and witnessed Israel’s compassion firsthand when he visited a young boy from Gaza receiving lifesaving care at Save a Child’s Heart—at no cost.
Just weeks later, following the horrific events of October 7th and a surge in antisemitism on college campuses, Dr. Robbins became one of the first university leaders to publicly condemn the attacks and take a strong stand for Jewish students. “This is the real-world impact of our trips,” says Posner. “It’s more than advocacy. It’s transformation.”
Broadening the Reach: Speaking to Global Audiences
KSU students at the Dead Sea. Photo courtesy of Athletes for Israel
While many Israel advocacy efforts focus inward, Posner’s approach is outward-looking and inclusive. “If we only reach 15 million Jews, we’ve failed,” he says. “Our mission is to connect with the hundreds of millions who may not know Israel—or only know it through a distorted lens.”
Athletes For Israel designs highly tailored trips that highlight Israel’s diversity, vibrancy, and shared democratic values. From visiting the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock to enjoying the nightlife of Tel Aviv, the trips aim to leave a lasting impression. “Nothing beats seeing it with one’s own eyes,” Posner adds. “It changes everything.”
Strength Through Adversity
Like any mission-driven organization, Athletes For Israel has faced its share of challenges. The aftermath of October 7th led to canceled flights and delayed trips. Yet, the commitment never wavered. “We were fortunate to have real sports heroes like Tony Richardson, Eddie Curry, and others travel to Israel anyway—and speak out boldly for the Jewish State and the hostages.”
Rather than scale back, Posner leaned in. His team launched the Eddie Jacobson Leadership Program, training Jewish teens and college students to use sports as a tool for advocacy and pride. “Despite any challenge, we, like athletes, push forward.”
Strategic Philanthropy Through JCF
A JCF Fundholder for over 25 years, Posner credits Jewish Communal Fund with helping him bring structure and foresight to his giving. “JCF gave me the space to think strategically and long-term—like an investor in impact,” he says. He first learned about JCF through a friend and was drawn to the organization’s consistent support for Jewish causes. “We need to help our own people, and JCF lives by that mantra.”
Advice for New Philanthropists
For those just beginning their philanthropic journey, Posner’s advice is both practical and profound. “Find something meaningful to you and get involved beyond just writing a check. Your time, expertise, and energy can be just as valuable as your dollars. Seeing a cause you care about thrive because of your involvement brings an unmatched sense of purpose.”
Looking to the Future
As he looks ahead, Posner is focused on scaling Athletes For Israel’s reach and cultivating the next generation of advocates. “The more young people we can connect to Israel, the more powerful our long-term impact will be,” he says. “Being able to stand up for my people in this way, and to do so with lasting impact, is incredible.”
And while he’s keeping future participants under wraps, he teases, “Athletes For Israel is always bringing the best. You’ll just have to follow us on Instagram @athletes4israelorg to see who’s next.”
A Legacy of Dignity, Impact, and Jewish Values
Through strategic philanthropy, hands-on leadership, and a values-driven mission, Daniel Posner continues to demonstrate what it means to give with purpose. Accordingly, his work through Athletes For Israel is not only shifting perspectives but also creating lasting connections that reflect the best of Jewish communal values.
To learn more about Athletes For Israel, visit www.athletesforisrael.org.