Since 2007, Rose Community Foundation has brought together diverse, talented and community-minded Jewish young adults to learn and give together and make a difference in the Greater Denver community.

Roots & Branches Foundation members begin their collaborative philanthropic journey by participating in a seven-month program where they explore Jewish values, learn about community issues, and put the tools of strategic philanthropy to work, ultimately granting up to $50,000 together. Joining Roots & Branches means becoming part of the next generation of funders at Rose Community Foundation and joining a network of alumni who continue to gather to celebrate holidays, volunteer and make new connections.  

Becoming a Member

Applications are now open for the 2024-25 cohort. All members should identify as Jewish and be between the ages of 25 and 40 years old. You do not need to be of a certain income level, wealth status or earning potential. We welcome members who can bring a diversity of voices, life experiences and perspectives to the program. Applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule a 15 minute informational phone call to ask questions about the program and get clarity about the commitment ahead of applying.

  • To schedule a call with Emily Kornhauser, Director of Collaborative Philanthropy, weekdays between 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., please click here.
  • To schedule a call with Gillian Nyland, Philanthropic Initiatives Coordinator, weekdays between 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., please click here.

Please schedule a phone call and complete your online written application by 5 p.m. on Monday, April 1, 2024. View program information here.

Apply Now

Grantmaking Funds

Rose Community Foundation seeds the group’s grantmaking with $30,000 and provides a dollar-for-dollar match for members’ combined contributions, up to $10,000. All members are asked to make a personally meaningful donation. There is no recommended contribution amount and all amounts donated are confidential.

2023-24 Grantmaking

The 2023-2024 cohort of Roots & Branches Foundation focused its grantmaking on increasing economic stability through eviction prevention, emergency assistance and resources for self-sufficiency and wealth building.  The members awarded grants to the following organizations: 

  • Colorado Poverty Law Project: ($7,500): General operating support for eviction legal defense, tenant and landlord mediation, and housing advocacy.
  • Family Tree ($15,000): General operating support to prevent eviction for families and individuals across the metro area through rental assistance and case management.
  • Warren Village ($15,000): General operating support for formerly unhoused, single-parent families to build their personal educational, and economic competencies leading to self-sufficiency.
  • Focus Reentry ($7,500): Program support for the Building Home program that matches mentors to peers who are newly housed in an effort to provide socialization, housing navigation and life skills.