There are times in history when education becomes more than just a path to opportunity. It becomes a form of protection. A lifeline. A quiet, steady answer to uncertainty. Right now is one of those times — and across 37 countries, thousands of Jewish children are feeling the difference because someone stepped in to make it happen.
Together with her husband Uri, Yael founded the Yael Foundation in 2020 with one clear purpose: to ensure Jewish children everywhere, no matter how remote their community, have access to education that is rich, relevant, and rooted in identity.
A Mission Born From Experience
Yael Poliavich’s connection to education isn’t abstract. She grew up in Kyrgyzstan, watching her mother teach music and change lives. Early on, she knew education had power. After years in finance — and her own path into Judaism — she built the foundation to pass that power on. To give others the same chance to grow, belong, and move forward.
Since then, over 18,000 students have been reached. Not through mass campaigns — but through consistent, thoughtful programs that meet children where they are and help lift them higher.
It’s About More Than Classrooms
What the Yael Foundation provides isn’t just academic support. It’s emotional infrastructure. It turns Jewish schools into spaces where children feel secure, valued, and confident in their identity.
Here’s what that looks like on the ground:
- Upgrading classrooms with better tools and resources.
- Funding leadership and teacher development programs.
- Creating spaces for Jewish culture and learning to grow side by side.
- Backing education projects led by local communities.
- Building belonging through shared culture and identity.
The foundation may work across continents, but its focus stays close to home. Every school, every program, every decision starts with one question: what does this community truly need? There’s no copy-paste strategy. Instead, the Yael Foundation listens first, then builds solutions that fit.
Why Identity-Driven Education Matters
Jewish education goes beyond academics — it’s about giving children a strong sense of identity and understanding their roots. In uncertain times, that identity becomes a powerful anchor. The Yael Foundation supports schools that blend tradition with modern learning, so students grow up confident in their roots and ready for the future. It’s education with lasting meaning and real purpose.
What Sets the Foundation Apart
So why has the Yael Foundation become such a trusted name in Jewish education — especially in times like these?
Here are five key reasons:
- Community-led approach. The foundation works with local voices instead of dictating solutions.
- Active involvement. Support goes beyond funding, with real engagement in schools and programs.
- Balanced learning. Education combines Jewish values with skills students need today.
- Long-term commitment. Relationships continue well after initial support is given.
- Flexible by design. The foundation adjusts quickly as needs change on the ground.
Education That Builds Confidence in Uncertain Times
In a world where feeling safe and grounded isn’t always guaranteed, Jewish education offers more than knowledge — it offers identity, connection, and strength. The Yael Foundation helps create learning environments where children don’t just study; they grow up proud of who they are.
Programs That Make a Difference
Here are just a few ways the Yael Foundation is helping students and schools stay strong:
- Yael Camp — A summer program that blends learning with cultural connection.
- International Summit — A global meeting point for Jewish educators.
- Grants & scholarships — For schools, leadership training, and community development.
- Innovation in Education — Bringing smart technology into the classroom.
The Yael Foundation is all about giving kids solid ground. The world changes fast. But a strong education, tied to identity, helps them stay steady. It shows them who they are. Where they belong. And that they’re never alone.
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