Michael Staenberg was raised in a family of modest means. But his parents didn’t use that as an excuse not to support their community.  They felt lucky to have a roof over their heads and food on the table. “They taught us that it is important to give to people who were less fortunate,” he says.

That lesson stayed with Michael throughout his childhood, and today, as a successful business executive, Michael feels that responsibility more than ever.  “I’m fortunate, and I’m glad to be able to give back,” he says.

Staenberg has identified several areas of focus for his support, but gives primarily to the Jewish community. “If we don’t provide for each other, who’s going to help us?” he says. He is proud that the majority of the money raised by his Staenberg Family Foundation goes to Jewish causes.

He also feels that Jewish Federation is a smart choice for effective, meaningful Jewish giving. “Federation makes sure the agencies in our community that need to be funded are funded,” Staenberg says. “I don’t know the individuals who will benefit, but I know that Federation addresses the issues that are important in our community.”