The Jerusalem Post Recognizes David & Laura Merage’s Philanthropy
On September 9th, The Jerusalem Post acknowledged the philanthropic support of Israel that David and Laura Merage have been providing for over two decades. Through Merage Foundation Israel, the Merages have been working to increase the prosperity of Israel through a variety of programs and partnerships.
Our foundation works in two ways – first through direct philanthropic investment and, secondly, through partnerships. This model allows Laura and I to be truly diverse in the types of programs and endeavors in which we become involved.
David Merage, Business Owner & Philanthropist
Merage Foundation Israel has two main areas of focus: Community Development and Negev Development. Within the Community Development division, they have four major programs: Iranian Community in Israel, Wings, Connected to Life, and Pakal. Within the Negev Development division, they have been actively supporting projects and programs to strategically develop the southern part of the country. Most recently, they have been focused on a new model promoting regional economic development, including two key projects DeserTech and Negev Agritourism.
In addition to Merage Foundation Israel, the Merage Foundations in the U.S. represents three generations of philanthropists that were initiated by David’s parents and will now include a fourth generation, David’s grandchildren. “I also believe it is my responsibility to contribute greatly of my time, my network and my business acumen. It is a way of life that is transmitted from generation to generation and it is our hope that this approach to giving back is more widely embraced by Israelis,” stated David.
I think philanthropy’s role is to empower people so that they realize their full potential. Through our Merage Foundation initiatives we create opportunities that increase well-being and positive life outcomes. I believe that philanthropists must also know that things change, evolve, advance, and that they certainly don’t have all the answers about the needs and solutions of the communities they serve.
David Merage, Business Owner & Philanthropist
The David and Laura Merage Foundation, located in Denver, Colorado, focuses it’s efforts in four major areas: Early Childhood Education, Arts and Culture, Community Development, and Merage Israel.
