FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

St. Louis, MO (August 2, 2025) — In a powerful demonstration of generosity and purpose-driven philanthropy, real estate developer and community champion, Michael Staenberg, has redirected a portion of his major gift—originally intended to secure naming rights for the J’s Chesterfield campus as a part of the Creating the J for Tomorrow campaign—to create life-changing scholarship opportunities at Camp Sabra, the J’s residential summer camp.

Staenberg, a devoted supporter of the J and the volunteer lay leader for the Marilyn Fox Building Renovation Project, made a generous $1.8 million commitment to help transform the Chesterfield campus, a gift that included naming rights for the campus. When he learned that the Fox Family wished to name the campus in memory of their late parents, Marilyn and Sam Fox z”l, Staenberg graciously stepped aside choosing to honor their legacy rather than accept the naming recognition himself. Instead of withdrawing his support, he designated $1 million to remain with the Fox project, while reallocating the remaining $800,000 to launch two meaningful new scholarship initiatives at Camp Sabra.

“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’s transformational gift to Camp Sabra will offer:

Full Ride Scholarships. Each year, approximately ten full-ride scholarships will be awarded to campers who would otherwise be unable to attend. These need-based scholarships, which may include a small family contribution, ensure that, regardless of income, a high-quality Jewish camping experience is possible for the recipients. Furthermore, Michael has committed to ensuring that any camper who receives a scholarship within the 10-year period can continue to attend Sabra through their rising 10th grade culminating trip. This results in a likely commitment in excess of the $800,000.

Second-Year Sabra Grants. While the existing national One Happy Camper program provides incentive grants for first-time campers, there is a continued need to support families beyond their first year. Thanks to the Staenberg gift, eligible families can now receive grants for their child’s second summer at Camp Sabra. The second year of camp offers a valuable opportunity to further cultivate and strengthen each camper’s Jewish identity and connection to community.

Steven Rosenzweig, President & CEO of the J, praised Staenberg’s leadership and vision. “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.”

Michael Staenberg’s decision is a shining example of philanthropy driven by values—ensuring that future generations of Jewish children have access to the same formative experiences that shaped his life.

###

About Camp Sabra

Camp Sabra is a Jewish residential summer camp located on the Staenberg Peninsula at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. As a program of the St. Louis Jewish Community Center (JCC), Camp Sabra provides an immersive summer experience for children entering grades 3-10. The camp’s mission is to be a premier Jewish resident camp, fostering life-long friendships, Jewish identity, and encouraging social and physical growth through a wide range of activities including waterfront sports, adventure challenges, athletics, and creative arts. For dates, rates, and scholarship information, please visit the Camp Sabra website.