A Passion for Baltimore and Israel

At the core of the Knables’ philanthropic work is a deep passion for strengthening the Jewish community. Both Talya and Stephen are committed Zionists, dedicated to fostering a strong and secure Israel, which they view as essential to Jewish life both in Baltimore and across the globe.

Talya and Stephen both credit their families for instilling strong philanthropic values in each of them, Stephen noting that his mother, Nina Rosenzwog, past chair of The Associated’s Women’s Campaign and Associated Women, “always pushed the importance of building our local Jewish community, as well as our bonds to Israel.”

“The health of our local Jewish community and doing what we can for world Jewry are our top priorities,” they said. “We want to ensure a bright future for Israel and for Jews everywhere.” Alongside their global focus, the couple also loves spending time outdoors with their children and exposing them to the many diverse experiences the world has to offer.

The Role of a Donor Advised Fund

For Talya and Stephen, opening a donor advised fund with The Associated was a natural extension of their deep connection to The Associated and their commitment to philanthropy. “We are both very involved with The Associated and the local Jewish community,” they explained. “Establishing our donor advised fund with The Associated allowed us to support The Associated while also expanding our philanthropic reach.”

The Knable’s donor advised fund has given them the flexibility to support a wide range of causes that matter to them. From local Jewish education initiatives to Israel-related projects, the Knables have found that their donor advised fund allows them to easily direct their giving where it’s most needed.

“We can support all of our philanthropic endeavors through our donor advised fund,” they said. “It really allows us to maximize our impact, and for anyone who is already a supporter of The Associated, there’s no reason not to set one up.”

Building a Legacy for the Next Generation

The Knables went a step further in solidifying their legacy last year when they established an Annual Campaign Endowment which will support The Associated’s annual campaign in perpetuity. With an after-lifetime gift, Talya and Stephen have ensured that their current annual gift will be sustained long after they are gone and continue to ensure Baltimore is a strong and vibrant, Jewish community, one in which they are proud to be raising their family.

Advice for Other Donors

When asked why others should consider establishing a donor advised fund with The Associated, Talya and Stephen’s response is simple: “It helps both The Associated and your own philanthropic footprint. It’s a win-win.”

Their involvement with The Associated goes far beyond their personal contributions. Stephen currently serves on The Associated’s Board of Governors and is deeply involved with Johns Hopkins Hillel, while Talya holds leadership positions across multiple agencies and has won several young leadership awards. Both have chaired recent missions to Israel and they are passionate about fostering the connection between Baltimore and Ashkelon through The Associated’s Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership.

For Talya and Stephen Knable, philanthropy is more than just giving back—it’s about building a legacy that will endure for generations. Through their donor advised fund, their endowment, and their ongoing leadership within The Associated, they are creating a future where the Jewish community continues to thrive, both in Baltimore and beyond.