January 16, 2013

(JTA) — The Jewish service group Repair the World has named David Eisner its new CEO and president.

“Repair the World is a young organization with a limitless potential to help others and to have a profound impact on Jewish volunteerism and service in the United States,” Eisner said in a statement. “Global issues related to education, health, poverty, and the environment require innovative ideas and hands-on solutions. We are building a movement to capitalize and build on the ingenuity of individuals and the commitment of organizations on the ground dedicated to making a difference.”

The organization, which boasts an $6.2 million annual budget, began operations in 2009 through the founding partnership of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, Einhorn Family Charitable Trust, Jim Joseph Foundation and Nathan Cummings Foundation. The funders stated goal was to boost volunteerism among Jews and strengthen the growing network of organizations building Jewish identity through social action projects. 

Last year, Geoff Lieberthal, principal at Lee Equity Partners and a founder of the volunteer consulting group Inspire!, was tapped to serve as chairman of Repair the World’s board of directors. 

Eisner brings to the table several years of executive experience in the public sector. From 2003 to 2008, he was appointed CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, a now-$1 billion federal agency established by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. 

More recently, Eisner was tapped by President Bill Clinton to serve as CEO and president of the nonprofit National Constitution Center in Philadelphia from 2009 until he stepped down last August. Eisner was a vice president at AOL Time Warner from 1997 until 2003, where he founded and directed the company’s philanthropic division, the AOL Time Warner Foundation.

“It’s going to be all about a smart strategic plan with a really strong focus and execution,” Eisner told JTA about his first duties in his new role. “I think within the first 100 days, we will be able to share great work that board and staff is doing.”

Eisner succeeds Jon Rosenberg, who left the organization in October and is pursuing career opportunities in education.

Eisner has served on the boards of several national nonprofit organizations, including Independent Sector, the National 4-H Council, Public Allies, Points of Light and Network for Good. Eisner said that his current board obligations are being reviewed as he transitions into his new role.

For the time being, Eisner will commute from Philadelphia so that his four children, ages 9 through 16, can finish the school year before the family contemplates a move to New York.

“We are thrilled to have a leader of David’s stature and experience taking the helm of Repair the World. Under his leadership, Repair will help to mobilize a generation of young Jews committed to making an impact on the world, as well as ensure that service and volunteerism are central to Jewish life,” said Lynn Schusterman. 

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