Lorne Polger brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role as Chair of The Foundation’s Advisory Committee. With a deep commitment to legacy giving and community growth, Lorne is focused on elevating The Foundation’s impact across Colorado’s Jewish community. In this Q&A, he shares what motivates him, his vision for The Foundation’s future, and some personal reflections on leadership, giving, and his favorite Jewish holiday.
What motivated you to get involved with The Foundation, and what inspired you to take on the role of Chair?
I view legacy and endowment giving as central to philanthropy, a way to preserve our institutions for the next generation and those that follow. Given the strength of Colorado’s Jewish communities, I see great potential in The Foundation. In my professional life, I like to help things grow. As such, I was intrigued by the challenge of taking The Foundation to the next level. It is my hope that with the help of JEWISHcolorado’s staff and stakeholders who share this vision, together we can build on the work of our previous Chair Diana Zeff Anderson, and we can make that happen!
As The Foundation enters a new chapter of growth and engagement, what are you most excited about in the year ahead?
Getting out there and making it happen – making the wider community more aware of what we do and why we do it! I am excited to build upon the foundation (no pun intended) we have and take it to the next level of growth and philanthropy. During my time in San Diego, I watched the Jewish Community Foundation’s assets grow from humble beginnings to over $800 million in about twenty years, and I want to see The Foundation at JEWISHcolorado achieve this type of long-term (albeit somewhat audacious) goal.
What do you see as the most important role The Foundation plays in strengthening Jewish life in Colorado — now and for future generations?
I believe The Foundation’s role is more important than ever as we confront serious existential threats to our community and its institutions. Unfortunately, these challenges are unlikely to disappear anytime soon. Now more than ever, we must be willing to speak out boldly rather than blend in quietly—and increase our visibility to ensure our voices are heard. Long-term, sustained philanthropy is critical to helping Jewish programs and institutions not only survive but thrive for generations to come. I see The Foundation as a vital pillar in providing the support and stability needed to make that possible.
Jewish tradition emphasizes l’dor v’dor (from generation to generation). Are there values, stories, or individuals from your own family or community who have shaped your approach to leadership and giving?
One of my business mentors liked to say, “If you are standing still, you are falling behind.” That is the prism through which I approach leadership roles. Don’t be afraid to shake things up and help people see things differently. Change can be uncomfortable — and I’m definitely not immune to that discomfort myself — but in every organization I’ve led, whether professionally or as a volunteer, I’ve tried to embrace that discomfort and lean into it. When I think about family and community, I’m inspired by those who are no longer with us — people who influenced me deeply through their quiet acts of giving and service. Their example reminds me that leadership and generosity are often expressed in ways that don’t seek the spotlight, but have a lasting impact across generations.
Just for fun: What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why?
I’ve always loved Passover. I love telling the story and having our extended family and friends participate. Looking back, I believe our record was over 50 Seder attendees — my late wife Cindy and I actually had to move all the furniture out of the living room to fit everyone! I’m pretty sure I even dressed up as Moses that year to lead the Seder. For the past ten years or so, I’ve made it a tradition to write a modern, humorous version of the Passover story each year. Thankfully, by the time I share it, most guests have had a couple of cups of wine so the humor usually lands pretty well!