Episode 19 - Don’t Pitch—Partner: The Art of Fundraising as Shared Vision with Deena Fuchs

In this episode of Date Your Donors, Jonah Halper sits down with Deena Fuchs, Executive Director of Micah Philanthropies, for a rich conversation on what makes philanthropic partnerships thrive. With over two decades in Jewish philanthropy—spanning The AVI CHAI Foundation, Jewish Funders Network, and now Micah—Deena shares hard-earned wisdom on funder-grantee relationships, the importance of authenticity and trust, and why strategy matters more than the size of a check.

They also explore Micah Philanthropies’ current priorities, including elevating Orthodox women’s Torah scholarship and reimagining Jewish education as a warm, inclusive pathway to meaning and tradition. Whether you’re a fundraiser, nonprofit leader, or foundation professional, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what funders are really looking for—and how to build sustainable, impactful relationships that go beyond the transaction.