About Us

JEFSC is a Jewish community foundation—a place where values, vision, leadership, and philanthropy meet. Rooted in the Jewish principles of Tzedakah (justice), and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), K’lal Yisrael (Jewish peoplehood), we’ve been building bridges between donors and meaningful change since 1996.

We help individuals, families, and organizations make a lasting impact—on Jewish life, education, social issues, healthcare, and community resilience—across South Carolina and beyond.

We work with you to clarify your goals—both short- and long-term—and align them with the community’s most pressing needs, where your giving can make the greatest impact. Through thoughtful, strategic, and heartfelt philanthropy, we’re building a community rooted in lasting relationships and shared purpose across generations.

We currently manage $27+ million across 77 endowed funds, distributing $700,000+ annually to 180+ nonprofits

Our Services

Giving Vehicles

Donor-advised funds, endowments, scholarship

Strategic Grantmaking

Focused on Jewish life, education, social justice, Israel, and more

Community Connection

Linking donors to people, causes, and opportunities

Legacy Planning

Support for multi-generational giving

Philanthropic Advising

Personalized, mission-aligned support

Trusted Stewardship

In partnership with Coastal Community Foundation

Why it Matters

We’re more than money managers—we’re community builders, legacy stewards, and trusted partners in meaningful giving now and for generations to come. Our team combines expertise in investing, philanthropy, and community leadership and development. We’re here to guide your giving with care, clarity, and commitment.

What Makes Us Unique

We lead with insight grounded in data, community voices, and evolving needs—to drive meaningful, measurable impact.
We bring people together by bridging perspectives, aligning resources, and navigating complex conversations for a stronger Jewish future.
We listen deeply and plan personally.

We help donors move from writing checks to shaping futures.
We honor Jewish tradition while planning for tomorrow’s needs.
We invest in people, values, and long-term change—not just portfolios.

A Partner in Every Sense

If you believe in the power of memory, action, and vision, JEFSC is your philanthropic home. Your gift honors the past, strengthens the present, and shapes the future.

L’dor V'dor.
Generation to Generation.
Together.

Donate Now

Message from

Phyllis Martin

Executive Director

MEET PHYLLIS

At the Jewish Endowment Foundation of South Carolina, our mission is rooted in tradition, sustained by generosity, and inspired by the future. Every day, we work to ensure that Jewish values, voices, and communities continue to thrive—today and for generations to come. L’dor V'dor.

Legacy isn’t just what we leave behind—it’s how we live today. We help individuals, families, and their advisors align values with giving, creating meaningful impact now and into the future. Our work is deeply personal, grounded in the belief that Jewish life flourishes when nurtured with heart and purpose.

We also recognize the vital role of trusted advisors—estate planners, attorneys, and financial professionals—in shaping thoughtful, tax-wise charitable strategies. Whether your clients are exploring donor-advised funds, charitable bequests, or multi-generational giving, we’re here to support—not compete with—your expertise.

Whether you're giving today, planning for tomorrow, or guiding others on their philanthropic journey, we welcome your trust, your partnership, and your passion.

Shalom,

Phyllis