Foundation’s History
David and Laura’s philanthropic passion started years prior to the formal funding of the organization.
In 2002 the David and Laura Merage Foundation (DLMF) was officially established to create a more equitable society for all and to leave a legacy for future generations.
We are entrepreneurs at heart. Over the years we have taken on complex social issues by working on innovative initiatives and incubating new ideas that bring lasting solutions to scale.
- David Merage
Here are a few highlights:
David and Laura Merage Foundation Officially Established
David and Laura created the David and Laura Merage Foundation in 2002.
combating hate in schools
Provided initial funding for an anti-hate program pilot which later became the Anti-Defamation League’s initiative No Place for Hate®.
providing support to lone soldiers
Established the Wings program in partnership with the Jewish Agency to provide new young immigrants with comprehensive support from the time they arrive in Israel, through their military service, and for years after.
creating a home for community and contemporary art
Purchased and renovated a warehouse, funded the vision and formed the nonprofit that would be RedLine Contemporary Art Center with the aim to foster education and engagement between artists and communities.
building the supply of quality childcare
Early Learning Ventures was created to address the business inefficiencies in providing high quality childcare.
increasing capacity for community change in israel
After years of support in Israel, Merage Foundation Israel was officially established to advance a prosperous and cohesive Israeli society through empowerment.
intersecting contemporary art and community
RedLine provides space and support for resident artists to create, learn, connect, and foster education and engagement with the community, creating positive societal change.
detangling mental health and the criminal justice system
The Equitas Project was founded to the decriminalization of mental health and advocate for improved behavioral health outcomes, reduced incarceration, and increased public safety, and general prosperity for those with mental health challenges.
Black Cube Brings Art to Innovative Places
Black Cube, a nomadic art museum, was established to increase access to contemporary, ambitious artworks and turn the traditional white cube museum on its head.
Amplifying the Childcare Affordability Crisis
The #CareForAllChildren campaign was created to increase public awareness and advocate for bipartisan investment in childcare.
the equitas project joins mental health colorado
The Equitas Project joined forces with Mental Health Colorado to supercharge the effort to decriminalize mental illness.
bringing joy to children
Merage Mini Heroes was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to bring joy to the children of courageous frontline healthcare workers.
Increasing the Supply of COVID-19 Vaccinations
After over a decade of support, the David and Laura Merage Foundation continues to support National Jewish Health and their efforts to provide equitable access to vaccines and more.
teaching the world how to fight Desertification
Merage Foundation Israel continues to position the Negev as the world’s hub for Desert Innovation and successfully launched the Merage International DeserTech Competition in Dubai.