Staenberg Family Foundation

History of the Staenberg Family Foundation

The Staenberg Family Foundation was founded in 2005 by Michael and Carol Staenberg as a supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. As such, it supports projects and programs that meet the mission of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, which is to mobilize resources needed to preserve and enhance Jewish life in St. Louis, in Israel and around the world.

The Staenbergs chose to establish the Foundation in this manner because they believe that the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ mission is consistent with their family values as Jews. Tzedakah (righteousness) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) are values that have guided the Jewish people and guide the Staenberg family. They also wanted to set an example of giving for the community and their immediate family. “Tzedakah is basic to Judaism. We want to teach the next generation the importance of giving back,” stated Michael Staenberg. The Staenberg family hopes that their actions will inspire others to give back to the community.

Foundation Priorities

The Staenberg Family Foundation’s highest funding priority is to support services, projects, and programs that help build thriving Jewish communities in St. Louis (MO), Denver (CO), and Omaha (NE), and beyond. We value an inclusive and pluralistic approach to Jewish life.

The Foundation welcomes submissions on the part of institutions that promote art, culture, and health, including medical research. Other funding areas include capital projects that support the arts, as well as gifts of professional artwork for cultural, educational, or medical settings.

We favor grantees that will use our funding to create a ripple effect — that is, as incentives or matching dollars that inspire others to give.

The family board reviews requests throughout the year. Michael Staenberg serves as Foundation President.

The Staenberg Family Foundation does not financially support any political organizations.