FAQS

Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about the Foundation and its programs.

WHO IS THE NAZARIAN FAMILY?

At the heart of the Nazarian family are Younes (z"l, of blessed memory) and Soraya Sarah Nazarian, who raised four children: David, Shulamit, Sharon, and Sam. The family has since grown to include eleven grandchildren. Family members serve on the Foundation's Board of Trustees and Next Gen Advisory Board. The Foundation's regional office in Israel, the Ima Foundation, was inspired by the family's matriarch, Aviva Golbahar Nazarian, fondly known as "Ima."

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE YOUNES & SORAYA NAZARIAN FAMILY FOUNDATION AND THE IMA FOUNDATION?

The Younes & Soraya Nazarian Family Foundation is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, and the Ima Foundation serves as its regional office in Tel Aviv, Israel. The two foundations collaborate on grantmaking and other projects.

WHERE DOES THE YOUNES & SORAYA NAZARIAN FAMILY FOUNDATION FUND GEOGRAPHICALLY?

The Foundation's primary geographic focus areas are Southern California and Israel, along with partnerships in other parts of the United States. At the discretion of the Nazarian family, the Foundation may also support organizations in other regions where the need is greatest.

HOW MAY WE APPLY FOR GRANT FUNDING?

Because the Foundation's resources are limited and there are many worthy causes, it does not accept unsolicited letters of inquiry or grant proposals. Funding is by invitation only. Through a rigorous internal process, the Board of Trustees and Next Gen Advisory Board identify organizations and projects that best fit the Foundation's funding priorities. Only organizations with tax-exempt status under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3) are eligible for funding.

MAY WE CONTACT THE FOUNDATION ABOUT A PROPOSED PROJECT PARTNERSHIP?

The Foundation conducts its grantmaking with the highest level of due diligence in selecting organizations and projects that best fit its focus areas. It does not accept unsolicited proposals, partnership requests, or funding inquiries, and is unable to respond to them. The Foundation contacts organizations directly when a potential fit is identified.

WE HAVE BEEN INVITED TO SUBMIT A FULL PROPOSAL. WHAT IS OUR NEXT STEP?

The Foundation Administrator will contact you with the timeline for the Foundation's review of your request.

DOES THE FOUNDATION CONDUCT SITE VISITS TO ALL ORGANIZATIONS THAT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT A FORMAL PROPOSAL?

The Foundation may conduct site visits with your organization before, during, or after your formal proposal submission. The Foundation will be in direct communication with you to schedule any visits and meetings.

WHAT IS REQUIRED ONCE A GRANT IS AWARDED?

The Foundation will notify you of your grantee status. Grantees submit two written reports each year, covering both program and financial updates, as specified in the grant agreement. The Foundation will also schedule periodic site visits in addition to the written reports.

MY QUESTION IS NOT ANSWERED IN THE FAQS – WHAT CAN I DO?

This FAQ page is intended for general questions about the Foundation. As noted above, the Foundation does not accept unsolicited funding requests or proposals by email or otherwise. For general questions only, please email us, and the Foundation will respond in a timely manner. Thank you for your interest.