The Genesis Prize Foundation has profound local and global influence, as laureates channel funds into transformative philanthropy and diverse causes.
The Genesis Prize Foundation, co-founded by Stan Polovets, has made a significant mark on Jewish philanthropy by recognizing and celebrating individuals who excel in their fields and are committed to their Jewish heritage and values.
The Genesis Prize stands out within Jewish philanthropy for its innovative approach. “It is the only organization awarding an annual $1 million to an individual who does not take the money but turns it around and invests it back into the community, often doubling or tripling the contribution with the help of matching donors,” explains Stan Polovets, CEO and co-founder.
Genesis Prize Leveraged Over $50 Million for Charitable Causes
The Genesis Prize’s substantial financial impact is complemented by 200-plus grantee organizations and the personal involvement of its honorees who embody Jewish values. Each laureate has chosen causes they’re passionate about, directing their prize funds to philanthropic initiatives that support these endeavors.
The first laureate, Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor of New York City, directed his $1 million award to create the Genesis Generation Challenge, a global competition designed to inspire young social entrepreneurs to tackle pressing social issues with innovative solutions.
The Genesis Generation Challenge aimed to empower the next generation of leaders to develop and implement impactful solutions to global challenges by providing seed funding and mentorship. Winning teams received financial support and access to a network of mentors and experts who provide guidance and resources to help turn their ideas into reality.
Bloomberg set a precedent for future Genesis Prize laureates, illustrating how the prize money could be leveraged to create a far-reaching and sustainable impact.
In 2015, actor Michael Douglas used his Genesis Prize to advocate for the inclusion of intermarried families in Jewish communities. He directed his $1 million award, as well as an additional $1 million donated by philanthropist Roman Abramovich, to support initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity within the Jewish community.
“Michael Douglas has been one of the most engaged and committed Genesis Prize laureates to date,” said Stan Polovets.
In 2016, world-renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman directed his prize to support initiatives that champion the inclusion of people with disabilities, significantly contributing to a more accessible and inclusive society. For the second consecutive year, the proceeds of the Genesis Prize award were doubled to $2 million, thanks to another $1 million contribution from Abramovich.
One of the primary beneficiaries was the Perlman Music Program, an organization he founded that offers unparalleled musical training to young musicians with disabilities. By expanding this program, Perlman ensured that talented musicians could access high-quality education and performance opportunities regardless of their physical challenges.
Sculptor Anish Kapoor, honored in 2017 for his contributions to the modern art world and his tireless advocacy for refugees, directed his prize funds to help address the global refugee crisis. Funds went to organizations like the Human Immigrant Aid Society and the International Rescue Committee, which offer essential services such as shelter, food, medical care, and education to millions of refugees globally.
In 2018, The Genesis Prize Foundation gave its first Lifetime Achievement Award to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Previous winners chose Ginsburg for her groundbreaking work in civil rights and women’s advocacy, recognizing her impact on justice and equality. That year, the prize funds were directed to women’s empowerment initiatives in her honor.
In 2019, Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots football team, received the Genesis Prize and dedicated his efforts to combating antisemitism. Kraft announced the creation of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, committing his own contribution of $20 million to this cause. This significant financial pledge aimed to counter the rising threat of antisemitism and all forms of hate globally.
Kraft said, “My vision is to work to end the violence against Jewish communities. To counter the normalization of antisemitic narratives that question Israel’s right to exist, disguised as part of legitimate debate on campuses and in the media. To educate, to inform, and to heal inter-communal relations. In combating the scourge of antisemitism, my solemn ambition is to counter all forms of intolerance in the spirit of the ancient Jewish value of tikkun olam — to heal and repair the world.”
Human rights activist Natan Sharansky was honored with the Genesis Prize in 2020 and directed his prize funds to various organizations providing crucial support to vulnerable populations affected by the COVID-19 crisis. The Israeli organizations that received Sharansky’s Genesis grants included 1221 Assistance for All, The Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, Aleh Negev, and Terem Public Clinic.
“I am grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to this humanitarian effort,” said Sharansky.
In 2021, Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg received the Genesis Prize. He directed his award to organizations dedicated to advancing racial and economic justice in the United States, including Jews of Color Initiative, Native American Rights Fund, Black Voters Matter, and Collaborative for Jewish Organizing.
The 2022 laureate Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer, directed his Genesis Prize funds to support the establishment of a Holocaust museum in his hometown of Thessaloniki, Greece, a project close to his heart due to his personal and family history. The Holocaust Museum of Greece aims to preserve the memory of the Jewish community in Thessaloniki, which was almost entirely destroyed during World War II.
In 2023, the Genesis Prize honored Jewish activists and organizations for their vital contributions to aiding the people of Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. The honored activists and organizations played a crucial role in providing comprehensive support to Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced persons.
A Decade of Impact
The Genesis Prize Foundation celebrated its 10th anniversary by awarding the prize to iconic entertainer and activist Barbra Streisand, who allocated her award funds to various critical causes, including environmental protection, women’s health, combating media disinformation, and supporting Ukraine. Streisand’s philanthropic efforts exemplify the transformative potential of the Genesis Prize, addressing urgent global issues and inspiring long-term positive change.
In 2024, the Genesis Prize recognized Israeli organizations supporting hostages kidnapped by Hamas, as well as the hostages’ families. This award aimed to keep global attention on the hostages’ situation and urge international leaders to prioritize their release.
The legacy of each laureate demonstrates the profound impact that individual contributions can make, inspiring future generations to embrace their heritage and strive for excellence.
