He gave up his name on the campus so more Jewish kids could go to camp in the summer

Published August 5, 2025

Real estate developer and longtime community supporter Michael Staenberg has redirected a significant portion of his $1.8 million gift—originally intended to secure naming rights for the Jewish Community Center’s Chesterfield campus—to fund new scholarship opportunities at Camp Sabra, the J’s residential summer camp.

Staenberg’s gift was part of the Creating the J for Tomorrow campaign to help renovate and transform the Chesterfield campus. Initially, the donation included naming rights for the campus. But when the Fox family expressed their desire to name the campus in memory of their late parents, Marilyn and Sam Fox z”l, Staenberg chose to step aside and honor their request.

“At the end of the day, it’s about doing what’s right for the community,” said Staenberg. “When I found out the Fox family wanted to honor their parents, I knew in my heart that stepping aside was the right thing to do. I didn’t hesitate.

“I’m honored to support the Fox project and delighted that I could also direct part of my gift to Camp Sabra—because Jewish camping changed my life. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship as a kid, and if I can give that same gift to other children—kids who might never have the chance to go otherwise—that means more to me than any recognition ever could.”

Staenberg kept $1 million committed to the Chesterfield renovation and redirected the remaining $800,000 to launch two new scholarship initiatives at Camp Sabra:

Full-ride scholarships

Each year, approximately 10 full scholarships will be awarded to campers with financial need. Staenberg also committed to helping those recipients continue attending Camp Sabra through their rising 10th grade year, meaning his total investment may exceed the initial $800,000.

Second-year Sabra grants

While many campers receive assistance for their first summer through the national One Happy Camper program, few resources are available for returning campers. Staenberg’s gift will now help bridge that gap, offering support to families whose children are returning for a second summer—an important time in building Jewish identity and connection.

Steven Rosenzweig, president and CEO of the J, noted Staenberg’s flexibility and community focus.

“Michael Staenberg’s generosity isn’t just financial—it’s visionary,” said Rosenzweig. “He leads by example, not for recognition, but because he truly believes in the power of community. Thanks to his gift, more children will have access to transformative Jewish experiences that shape who they are and who they become.”

With this shift, Staenberg helps preserve a family legacy while ensuring that future generations of Jewish children have access to the same formative experiences that shaped his life.