Organization Overview and Mission Statement
The Ruderman Family Foundation believes that inclusion and understanding of all people is essential to a fair and flourishing community. Guided by our Jewish values, we support effective programs, innovative partnerships, and a dynamic approach to philanthropy in our core areas of interest: advocating for and advancing awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health among young adults; fostering a more nuanced understanding of the American Jewish community among Israeli leaders; and modeling the practice of strategic philanthropy worldwide. The Foundation provides funding, leadership, expertise, and insight in both the U.S. and Israel.
The work of the Ruderman Family Foundation reflects our core values of social justice, innovation, collaboration, and agility. We seek to publicize broadly what we do in our programs and how we do it, in order to inspire full inclusion and to encourage strategic philanthropy.
The Foundation is deeply involved in advocacy and speaks out publicly against injustices, which is why we are cited and mentioned in nation-wide media outlets on a weekly basis. Furthermore, our Ruderman White Papers are on the forefront of bringing previously undiscussed issues to the national conversation and to the public consciousness.
The Foundation maintains close working relationships with its program partners and grantees. Unlike some other foundations, it does not accept unsolicited applications for support. The Foundation issues an invitation to partner only after a thorough analysis indicates shared vision, innovation, organizational strength, and a willingness to closely collaborate. It seeks out other major funders with which to partner and promotes broad information sharing about successes in its mission. Foundation staff are very involved in program development and remain very involved in major programs funded over multiple years. Single-year and pilot programs are also thoroughly monitored.
Role and Responsibilities
The Ruderman Family Foundation is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and mission-driven Program Associate to help advance the Foundation’s impactful work. This role offers a unique opportunity to build on the Foundation’s strong legacy while contributing to the growth and innovation of its programmatic and grantmaking efforts. Reporting directly to the Deputy Director, the Program Associate will play a key role in supporting strategic initiatives, managing partnerships, and ensuring the effective implementation of programs aligned with the Foundation’s vision for social change.
Executive & Administrative Support
- Provide high-level administrative support to the Foundation’s Trustee and Community Liaison, including complex calendar management, scheduling, and meeting logistics.
- Prepare comprehensive briefing materials, agendas, reports, presentations, and detailed follow-up notes for internal and external engagements.
- Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements, process reimbursements, and track expenses with accuracy and discretion.
- Serve as a trusted liaison between the Trustee and a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring timely and professional communication.
- Draft, proofread, and edit sensitive correspondence and executive-level documents on behalf of leadership.
Program Development & Management
- Collaborate with directors and staff to design, implement, and evaluate innovative, high-impact programs and grantmaking initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s mission.
- Support the development of inclusive, educational, and community-based programs delivered at a fast pace and high standard.
- Oversee the coordination of program activities and grant cycles, ensuring timely planning, execution, and evaluation.
- Select and manage consultants, community leaders, and other professionals to support program goals; monitor performance and provide feedback.
- Track and assess the progress and impact of Foundation awardees, identifying opportunities for continued investment and engagement.
Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach
- Coordinate logistics and materials for public events, community forums, and stakeholder meetings.
- Engage with national and international partners to promote inclusion and advance the Foundation’s strategic priorities.
- Facilitate direct and indirect communication with key service populations to gather feedback and inform program development.
- Represent the Foundation at conferences, association meetings, and community events, serving as an ambassador for its mission and values.
Budgeting & Reporting
- Draft and manage program budgets in collaboration with the Business Manager, ensuring alignment with financial goals and compliance standards.
- Prepare progress reports, impact summaries, and other documentation to support internal learning and external reporting.
- Apply the Foundation’s investment philosophy consistently across candidate organizations, with a focus on continuous improvement and measurable impact.
Communications & Collaboration
- Work closely with the communications team to develop content for newsletters, brochures, and the Foundation’s website.
- Contribute to the Foundation’s learning culture by sharing insights, participating in team discussions, and supporting cross-functional collaboration.
- Uphold the Foundation’s values and represent the organization with professionalism and integrity in all interactions.
Qualifications and Education Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in the philanthropic sector, with a strong understanding of nonprofit operations and grantmaking processes.
- 2–3 years of project management experience, including planning, execution, and evaluation of initiatives.
- Proven commitment to advancing social change.
- Skilled in designing and delivering educational programs and training sessions for diverse audiences.
- Exceptional research and writing abilities, including the development of reports, proposals, and strategic communications.
- Experience in budget development, financial tracking, and fiscal oversight.
- Proficient in planning and executing both virtual and in-person events, including logistics, outreach, and follow-up.
- Strong executive-level administrative support experience, including calendar management, meeting preparation, and confidential correspondence.
Preferred Skills
- Ability to lead and advance a team of professionals with a positive attitude.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Experience developing, building, and coordinating national and/or international programs.
- Experience working with philanthropic organizations and familiarity with Jewish Family giving initiatives.
- Ability to work in a family, small office environment.
- Self-starter with ability to keep on task to meet program deadlines.
- Social media and website management.
- Experienced in developing marketing materials.
Personal Traits
- Demonstrates loyalty, honesty, adaptability, and integrity in all professional interactions.
- Exercises sound judgment and discretion, particularly when handling sensitive or confidential matters.
- Communicates openly and respectfully across all levels of the organization.
- Brings a strong sense of practicality and common sense to problem-solving and decision-making.
- Naturally charismatic and personable, with the ability to build positive relationships and represent the organization with warmth and professionalism.
Benefits
Benefits include employer subsidized healthcare, HSA plan, vision plan, and dental plan; short- and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid time off including most Jewish Holidays in addition to Federal holidays; and professional development opportunities.