Susan and Richard A. Friedman
Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County announced that one of its most dedicated, visionary, philanthropic couples, Susan and Richard A. Friedman, have made a $10 million gift focused on the nonprofit’s critical work to combat rising antisemitism and hatred. Their support also bolsters Federation’s movement to activate Jewish life to ensure everyone can proudly celebrate their heritage and traditions.
The announcement was made at Celebrating Philanthropy, Federation’s signature event, which welcomed more than 550 guests to the Kravis Center last month.
Among the region’s most significant gifts to support Jewish life, the Friedman’s donation supports both the immediate needs and long-term efforts required to sustain one of the largest Jewish communities in North America.
In 2023, Richard A. Friedman co-founded Federation’s Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism & Hatred with Steven Tananbaum following rising antisemitic activity in the county. Since then, Friedman has become one of the Palm Beaches’ most dedicated leaders in the fight against antisemitism and the Palm Beach Center has emerged as a national leader — strengthening security, educating thousands, and building alliances.
“Because of their generosity, Jewish Palm Beach is stronger, more resilient, and more united than ever,” said Michael Hoffman, president and CEO of Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. “Community visionaries like the Friedmans are leading the way for Palm Beach to be a model for Jewish communities across the country.”
Jim Grimes
The Friedmans’ gift will provide critical multi-year support for the Palm Beach Center as well as the establishment of an endowment to meet its long-term needs. Funding will also support Federation’s Annual Campaign and its new Palm Beach Movement to Activate Jewish Life, aimed at igniting joy, strengthening connections, and cultivating a vibrant Jewish future.
During the event, Richard A. Friedman was also presented with Federation’s highest honor, the Jeanne Levy Community Leadership Award, which recognizes individuals whose vision and philanthropy have shaped the strength and future of Jewish life in Palm Beach County. The award was presented by Jeanne’s adult children, Mark Levy and Lynn Levy Peseckis, in honor of their mother, one of the area’s most notable pioneering community visionaries.
Richard shared, “I looked at my grandchildren a few years ago and asked myself: Will they feel proud, and safe, and joyful being Jewish? When Susan and I first became part of this community, what struck us most was its generosity, for each other, for Israel, for Jewish life. You can feel the strength, and when you love a place the way we love Palm Beach, you do what you need to do in Palm Beach.”
Celebrating Philanthropy was chaired by Josephine and Jason Kalisman, with Steven Tananbaum serving as honorary chair. The evening featured actress, producer, and activist Debra Messing, with CBS12 veteran anchor and reporter Jim Grimes, widely known for leading the station’s impactful Hate Rising series, serving as event emcee.
Throughout the evening, Federation leadership highlighted the defining unity of Jewish Palm Beach, its commitment to action, and its willingness to lead boldly in the face of rising challenges.
Multi-year philanthropic commitments, like the Friedmans’ landmark gift, have been critical to fueling this work, expanding programs, strengthening security, and ensuring a dynamic Jewish future throughout the Palm Beaches.
Photo credit: CAPEHART Photography
