About | Jay Ruderman

I’m an activist, author, and nonprofit leader helping people turn concern into real change in their communities.

The promise I made at eleven, and the fight it led me to...

Before I had language for it, I was paying attention to fairness, who belonged, who didn’t, and how quickly people learn to stay quiet when they feel unsafe or unseen. That promise shaped how I work. I listen first, then I act. I’m a lawyer by training, and I’ve spent my life learning how language, systems, and story shape what people believe is possible. I look for what is missing from the story, and I put my energy behind the people and ideas pushing change forward.

In practice, here are a few ways I might be able to help:

Speaking engagements: If you care deeply but feel stuck, I can help you find clarity, choose a focus, and stay engaged without burning out.

Institutions and leaders: If you are building inclusion and a more fair society that needs to land with real people, I bring frameworks, language, and examples that move people from intention to action.

Storytelling and media: If you want representation to be real, not performative, I support work that expands who gets to be seen, and how they are seen.

Before you can become an effective activist or trusted ally, you must first find your fight, and turn what’s inside you into action.

What I believe about activism

Activism is not an identity. It is a practice.

It is what happens when empathy becomes responsibility.

It is choosing a cause with intention, and showing up consistently.

Activism isn’t just a passion, it’s a skill. And the most important step is choosing your cause with authenticity.

Where I focus my energy

I care about who gets to belong, and who gets left out, in culture, policy, and everyday life.

Disability rights and representation

Disability rights are civil rights, representation shapes who gets seen and valued.

Mental health and stigma

Inclusion is not real if mental health is ignored, stigma keeps people isolated.

Jewish community and public life

When identity becomes a target, safety, confidence, and belonging are at risk.

At the Foundation, I focus on creating lasting, systemic change.

Through strategic grantmaking, research, and partnerships, I work to influence the institutions and cultural conversations that shape our society. Whether strengthening the Jewish community, advancing responsible leadership, or addressing issues where I believe staying silent isn’t an option, my goal is to move beyond moments and build impact that endures.

Persistence and preparation
aren’t optional, they are what sustain long-term change.