The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation was founded by the three Mandel brothers in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1953.

The brothers began their professional careers in a small auto parts business that they purchased from their uncle in 1940 for a modest sum.

Over the years, the business developed into a successful company that merged in 1996 with a British company, Farnell Electronics PLC. Under the name Premier, it became one of the world's largest suppliers of industrial and electronic components.

Inspired by their mother, who was a role model for them in her determination, integrity and generosity, the Mandel brothers began to engage in philanthropy at a young age - an activity that became central to their adult lives.

As mentioned, they established their first foundation in 1953, alongside associations engaged in developing leadership in the social sector, investing in the development of urban communities and revitalizing Jewish education around the world.

Even after their death, the legacy of the Mendel brothers is preserved through the activities of the foundation, which is still headquartered in their hometown of Cleveland, and continues to contribute greatly to improving the quality of life of citizens of the United States and Israel.

Morton Mandel was one of the most prominent businessmen and social leaders in the United States and one of the greatest Jewish philanthropists for over seven decades.

Mandel believed deeply in the power and importance of leadership. "One excellent person," he used to say, "can change the world." He translated this perception into action and vigorous involvement in social and educational activities in Israel and the United States.

The connection between Mort Mandel and the State of Israel began with his first visit there, after the Six-Day War. After that, Mort was not only a proud Jew, but also a proud Zionist. He visited the country hundreds of times, loved it, knew and appreciated all the communities that make up Israeli society, and was committed to their prosperity and well-being: he was aware of the needs of Israeli society and contributed greatly to improving the quality of life in the country - both intellectually and materially.

His wife Barbara shared his love for the State of Israel and devoted much of her time to developing the academy there. She later became honorary chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of the Hebrew University.

Mort Mandel especially loved Jerusalem. It was no coincidence that he established his latest project - the Mandel Foundation House in Israel - in the capital of Israel. Building this beautiful structure near the Botanical Gardens in Jerusalem, near the Knesset, was Mort's way of saying: "We are here to stay.