.png)
About Us
Guiding a new generation of Jewish community leaders around the world
.png){kind=icon}
Our Vision
The Kaplan Leadership Initiative empowers current and emerging Jewish leaders to strengthen and revitalize their communities through innovation, leadership, and global connection.
The program brings together talented Jewish professionals from the Former Soviet Union, Europe, and Latin America — regions where Jewish life continues to grow and evolve in meaningful ways.
By combining professional development, Jewish learning, and peer exchange, the Initiative equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to create lasting impact in their communities.
About JDC
The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), also known as “The Joint,” is the world’s leading Jewish humanitarian organization. Since 1914, JDC has worked to rescue Jews in danger, support vulnerable communities, strengthen Jewish life, and respond to crises around the world.
Today, JDC operates in more than 70 countries and in Israel, partnering with local communities to build resilience, develop future leadership, and create lasting Jewish connection and continuity. Guided by the Jewish value of mutual responsibility, JDC continues to support Jewish communities through both emergency response and long-term community development.
Edward & Carol Kaplan
For years, Carol & Ed (z״l) Kaplan have been at the forefront of Jewish communal innovation and philanthropy. As the cofounder of Zebra Technologies Corporation, Ed led with passion and creativity— helping his business grow into a globally renowned technology company. Carol serves as a JDC board member and the President of the Kaplan Foundation and dedicates her time to help others.
From their home in Chicago, the Kaplans have supported the work of JDC and other organizations to strengthen and develop Jewish communities all over the world.
Together, they launched the Kaplan Leadership Initiative in 2017 to ensure and reinforce the growth of Jewish professional leadership in the FSU, Europe and Latin America.
