Donor Spotlight

Launched in 2013, the PJ Library Alliance is a group of leading philanthropists who each pledge $1 million or more to grow and deepen PJ Library’s impact. (Visit pjlibrary.org/alliance to learn more.) Read on to hear from a few members of this transformational circle.

This story appeared in the summer 2025 issue of PROOF, a PJ Library magazine.

Joe and Debs Weinberg.
PHOTO BY STUART ZOLOTOROW

We were invited to PJ Library in Aspen [an annual gathering for major funders], and it was there that we learned about the impact PJ Library has on young families around the world. We decided to make an investment in the future of the Jewish people by joining the PJ Library Alliance.

As soon as our grandchildren could sit, they were on our laps reading PJ Library books with us. It’s one of our favorite activities. While we were inspired by PJ Library’s mission to help families connect to Jewish culture, becoming grandparents brought home the impact. We enjoy the conversations sparked by the stories. Also, we are one of many multifaith families whose second set of grandparents is learning about Jewish life alongside our grandchildren.

One of our favorite books is A Basket Full of Figs, which embodies the idea, “As my ancestors planted for me, so will I plant for my children.” We are thrilled that PJ Library helps us pass down Jewish values and keep our heritage alive.

We encourage others to consider leaving their legacy by helping to endow PJ Library in partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library is an invaluable way for families to transmit the beautiful lessons that Judaism teaches.

Debs and Joe Weinberg
Joseph and Debra Weinberg Family Foundation

Sheryl Greenwald.
PHOTO BY CARLOS CHATTAH

I learned about PJ Library at the International Lion of Judah conference in New Orleans about 12 years ago. The Harold Grinspoon Foundation made a presentation, and I loved what I heard. We didn’t have PJ Library in Broward County, Florida, and I was immediately inspired to bring it to Broward County. We funded the launch and have since endowed the program in the community. We also helped launch PJ Library in Jacksonville, Florida. My stepfather, Sam Berman, grew up in Jacksonville. Every year we continue to fund half of the program.

When people in Broward County meet me, they go, “Oh, you’re the PJ Library person!” I know our support is making an impact when they tell me how great it’s been for their kids. It gets so many people — younger people — involved in the Jewish community.

About eight years ago, we joined the PJ Library Alliance. We wanted to give beyond our local area so that many more communities could access all PJ Library has to offer. It’s important to teach Jewish values to young children. That’s huge for the continuity of Jewish tradition.

What impresses me most about PJ Library is they never stop innovating — they’re always looking for ways to make a bigger impact. It makes me feel good about giving.

Sheryl Greenwald
Sam Berman Charitable Foundation

Donors at all levels help spread the joy of PJ Library. Make a gift today! Visit pjlibrary.org/proofgift.