The Jewish Communal Fund, one of the largest donor-advised funds in the U.S., has prohibited its members from donating to Jewish Voice for Peace, a progressive Jewish American group that criticizes Israeli human rights abuses against Palestinians.

This decision was revealed by JCF member Jordan Bollag, who was informed of the policy change by JCF CEO Rachel Schnoll. The change came after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.

Donor-Advised Funds and JCF’s Decision

Donor-advised funds like JCF offer significant tax advantages to donors, allowing them to write off their entire donation while the money remains in the fund. The funds are typically used as pass-through entities, with donors directing where their contributions should go. However, JCF has exercised its legal right to control the distribution of funds.

Schnoll explained to Bollag that JVP did not meet at least one of three criteria required for donations through JCF: the organization cannot be antisemitic, deny Israel’s right to exist, or engage in illegal activity. JVP opposes Zionism but does not deny Israel’s right to exist as a state.

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Response to JCF’s Decision

Bollag criticized JCF’s decision, stating that it contradicts Jewish values of debate and social justice. He is considering moving his money to a fund that aligns with his values and supports a boycott of JCF until the policy is changed.

Read more at The Intercept.