KENSINGER & EMBASSY GRANTS

In late June, JPB received news of two generous grants. Each will support our mission of interfaith peace and leadership education.

In honor of his late parents, Stuart and Angie Kensinger, Philip Kensinger informed the JPB board of his intention to donate $100,000 over four years to fund a youth educator for peace programs in Houston, TX. Stuart and Angie Kensinger together with Fr. Nicholas and Dorothy Porter were co-founders of JPB. Philip currently serves on the board. In response, Fr. Nicholas said, “Philip’s parents would be so proud of him today. His generosity will ensure JPB’s mission of peace and tolerance will grow in the most diverse city in the United States.” The board is extremely grateful to Philip for his vision and initiative.

The office of Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Israel awarded the JPB-Retorika EXCEL Teacher-Training Institute $20,000 for the 2023-24 academic year. The grant supported the introductory program for 35 Israeli Arab and Jewish high school teachers during August in Jerusalem. It will also underwrite the intermediate program in Nazareth. Each level of the EXCEL Institute deepens the cross-cultural understanding between participants and empowers them to lead interschool programs that advance bi-communal healing. JPB is grateful for the Embassy’s support especially at this time of division and strife. Each teacher engages with approximately 100 students per year. Their incorporation of EXCEL principles and practices into their classrooms promotes geometric, positive impact among students and contributes systemic change in the school system.