The ASHRU Fund

Jewish tradition teaches us again and again that we have an obligation to show up for those who are marginalized and do what we can to create a more whole future for everyone. As the prophet Isaiah teaches, (1:17)

“Learn to do good. Devote yourselves to justice; Advance the cause (ashru chamotz) of those who are harmed.”

The ASHRU Fund (Advocacy for Survivors, for Healing, Repair and Understanding) is a new chance for alumni of Wexner Foundation programs– as well as those in the wider Jewish community– to support survivors of sexual violence and exploitation. We invite you to contribute financially as a way to stand in solidarity with those impacted by sexual trafficking and violence. Regardless of what you believe was done or known, those who were harmed by sexual trafficking and violence need to know that Jewish leaders care about them. This fund represents what we believe Jewish leaders must do in a time of crisis–even when the topic may be uncomfortable and hits close to home. By donating, we can collectively affirm our opposition to sexual exploitation and abuse, and demonstrate our Jewish commitment to responding with accountability, care, and justice.

Funds raised will be directed to provide the most direct support possible to survivors of sexual exploitation and trafficking through the organizations that serve them. We are committed to meaningful, on-the-ground impact for those most affected by sexual violence.

Please share not only the link to the fund (ASHRUFund.com) but also your own “why” about why you're donating, everywhere! On social media, on listservs, in chat groups, and elsewhere. Please encourage others – especially, but not only, other Wexner stakeholders – to donate as well. You can find an editable template to make a graphic to share your why here, or at https://tinyurl.com/ShareASHRU

FAQs

Who can donate?

Anyone can! We particularly encourage those who are stakeholders in Wexner Foundation programs to take on participation in this fund as a sacred obligation towards a more just world.

How much should I donate?

Classically, it’s suggested that 10% of one’s income is donated to tzedekah.

We recognize that not everyone is in the same financial position. We also recognize that not everyone has benefitted equally from Wexner Foundation funds in the same way– for example, those whose graduate school tuition was covered may want to consider the economic impact that a life without loans has offered them.

We leave it to individuals to determine their best course of action, but suggest that they regard this fund as more than just regular giving opportunity; this is a moment that demands that we rise to meet it with the moral seriousness it deserves.

Where will the money go? Who will decide?

It’s crucial that ASHRU center survivors’ needs and voices. At the same time, we wanted to launch quickly, rather than be delayed unnecessarily by process. As such, we determined that the first $100,000 raised would go to World Without Exploitation and the National Survivor Network. And simultaneously, as we begin to raise additional funds, we are undertaking a needs assessment in relationship with trafficking survivors, surveying them to determine what supports they name as most pressing and organizations they identify as most valuable.

Donations to ASHRU will be tax-deductible.

(7-10% of donations will be applied to administrative costs related to fund infrastructure and compliance, including fiscal sponsor fees.)

I’m a survivor, how can I receive support?

Based on a number of limitations, including the nature of our fiscal sponsor, and our own volunteer capacity, we are only able to donate to 501 c3 nonprofits. If you’re a survivor of sex trafficking and would like to offer suggestions about an organization that we might support, please let us know here.

I’m in the press, who can I talk to?

Please email AshruFund@gmail.com

How can I share the fund? Who should I share it with?

Please feel invited to share not only the link to the fund (ASHRUFund.com) but also your own “why” about why you're donating, everywhere! On social media, on listservs, in chat groups, and elsewhere. Please encourage others – especially, but not only, other Wexner stakeholders – to donate as well. You can find an editable template to make a graphic to share your why here, or at https://tinyurl.com/ShareASHRU

Will this money support organizations outside of the US?

We are focusing our attention on organizations based in the United States, but are absolutely open to considering – in conversation with survivors – those that have more of a global impact. Needless to say, trafficking and exploitation is a horrific problem worldwide and harms those with the least resources and power.


For support for survivors of sexual violence – including, but not only, child sexual abuse – you can find a comprehensive list here.

If you're involved in an institution, creating systemic change in your own domain matters. Two good places to start are here and here. Then consider this set of resources.