Samis Foundation
Sam Israel (1899–1994) was one of the Pacific Northwest’s most fascinating and enigmatic figures. A Sephardic Jewish immigrant and former shoemaker, he arrived in Seattle in 1919 and, through shrewd investments, amassed hundreds of properties across Washington, valued at over $40 million at his death. Known for maintaining rather than redeveloping his buildings and keeping rents low, he became an unintentional preservationist and supporter of Seattle’s arts community.
A private and independent man, Sam was deeply devoted to Judaism, nature, and community. He generously supported organizations from the Seattle Hebrew Academy to the Boy Scouts, as well as wildlife and archaeological causes in the U.S. and Israel. Unmarried, he left his estate to the foundation he created to sustain Jewish education in Washington and vital causes in Israel. Today, the Samis Foundation continues his legacy and his guiding belief: “We are our brother’s keeper.”
The Foundation
The Samis Foundation started with the goal of supporting Jewish education in Washington State and initiatives in Israel. Since its inception in 1994, it has fulfilled this goal by giving over $100 million in grants in support of over 150 different programs, organizations, and initiatives.
Our Vision
The Samis Foundation envisions a world where the preservation and continuity of Judaism and the State of Israel are secured, a vibrant, healthy Washington State Jewish community flourishes, and the educated Jew is thriving.
Our Mission
The Samis Foundation supports access for Jewish youth in Washington State to high-quality intensive and immersive Jewish educational experiences and fulfills Samuel Israel’s philanthropic goals of supporting the State of Israel and worldwide disaster relief.
