Werdiger Family Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Werdiger Family Foundation funds grantmaking related to Jewish causes, largely supporting Jewish educational, community and religious organizations.

IP TAKE: The foundation lacks transparency, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities. Despite keeping a low profile, this funder does accept unsolicited proposals. This is a good funder for Jewish organizations to know, particularly those serving Israel or working in Holocaust remembrance.

PROFILE:  The Werdiger Family Foundation was established in 1986 by apparel mogul Solomon Werdiger, the founder and CEO of licensed youth sports apparel manufacturer Outerstuff. The foundation does not maintain a website, which makes it difficult to locate further information on its priority areas and grantmaking strategies. According to tax filings, the Werdiger Family Foundation funds grantmaking related to Jewish causes, largely supporting Jewish educational, community and religious organizations.

Grants for Jewish Causes

Solomon’s parents were Holocaust survivors and he was born in Brooklyn, where the family has strong ties to the local community. He is the chairman of Agudath Israel of America’s board, an important grantee. Solomon and family also launched Refuah V’Yeshuah, which builds respite homes and helps Israeli families with special needs children.

Past grantees have included Rabbi Jacob Joseph School Edison, Beth Medrash Govoha, Kleinman Holocaust Education Center, Congregation Tiferes Moshe and American Friends Yeshivah Meor Hatalmud Torah.

Important Grant Details

Grants range from $100 to $250,000. In a recent fiscal year, the foundation gave away around $1.9 million. The Werdiger Family Foundation keeps a low profile but does accept applications. A written application should include a policy statement. The foundation does not have any submission deadlines.

PEOPLE:

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CONTACT:

Solomon Werdiger
1412 Broadway, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10018