We hope to engage thousands of people by partnering with as many leaders, organizations, and communities as we are able so that this initiative shines a light on the amazing work already happening across our community. Spark's mission is to:
What is Spark?
Allow us to introduce ourselves! Spark is an experience that brings together learning, community building, and immersive travel, in celebration of Israel’s 75th anniversary. We aim to ignite connections, engagement, and leadership opportunities within and across our Jewish community, both here in Boston and in Israel. Far more than a trip to Israel, Spark is a true community journey.
Our Mission
Bring joy
We are emerging from a really challenging two years. We just celebrated CJP’s 125th anniversary and are approaching Israel’s 75th Independence Day. Let's take this opportunity to reconnect and celebrate together.
Engage the next generations
Spark seeks to engage the future of Jewish Boston. For young adults and families with school-age children, Spark is a unique opportunity to experience Jewish life and learning in a new and exciting way.
Expand our community
Boston is home to a thriving, growing Jewish community and we want to provide a way for everyone to get involved, feel welcomed, and included.
Our Leadership
We’re incredibly grateful for our leaders. Without them, Spark would not be possible.
Leadership Team
Steering Committee
Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine
Spark, Co-chair
Brad Bloom
Spark, Co-chair
Tamar and Ken Frieze
Spark, Family Experience Co-chairs
Patience and Josh Shriber
Spark, Family Experience Co-chairs
- Mark Barrocas
- Michelle Black
- Rachel Chafetz
- Michelle Eisenberg
- Robin Friedman
- Risa Gewurz
- Jeffrey Glassman
- Lindsay Guttell
- Allegra Horstmann
- Micah Jones
- Amy Klein
- Debbie Kurinsky
- Hili Moore
- Larry Perlov
- Lorin Seidman
- Laura Shulman Brochstein
- Nathan Teplow
- Zachary Wainwright
- Emily Yale
About Combined Jewish Philanthropies
Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) is Massachusetts’ largest nonprofit organization focused on building a highly engaged, interconnected Jewish community. We invest in the care and well-being of our community, the stability and growth of our local organizations and institutions, and in research, innovation and collaborations that will make a meaningful impact in our Jewish community locally, In Israel, and beyond.