Monday, May 20, 2013
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is ROI?

ROI Community is a global community of Jewish innovators created by Lynn Schusterman. Our ultimate goal is to connect dynamic, creative Jews with each other and to give them the tools, support and space they need to turn their ideas into innovative work that will change the face of Jewish life today – and tomorrow. Through our conferences, gatherings, professional development, mentorship opportunities and financial support, our members shape the Jewish future as they continue their journey as leaders, activists and change-agents.

Who is behind ROI?

Founded in Jerusalem in the summer of 2006, ROI is a global community of outstandingly creative individuals who have a personal vision about how to make the Jewish world a better place. ROI Community began as a partnership between Taglit-Birthright Israel and the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation. ROI Community is an independent non-profit organization and is a member of the CLSPN (Charles and Lynn Schusterman Philanthropic Network).

Why create this network?

ROI was designed to gather a cross-section of the leading innovators who are the “brains” behind local initiatives and transform them into an active, global community that will work together on the fields that motivate them in their Jewish communal engagement. The ROI creates a hub in time and space for inspiration and engagement, and serves as a springboard for long-term collaboration – both face-to-face and virtual – between ROI Community members for the betterment of the Jewish people.

What does “ROI” stand for?

ROI stands for “return on investment”, a common business term which refers to achieving a desirable outcome through wise investment. Furthermore, ro’eh in Hebrew means "shepherd," which in our tradition has always symbolized a position of leadership.

What is the ROI Summit?
Taking place in Israel, the five-day ROI conference is an intense series of networking and collaboration sessions in which ROI participants enter into partnership with like-minded individuals – and with people from other disciplines and outlooks – and work together to propel their ideas and projects forward. At the Summit, participants share project ideas, provide real time feedback, refine, and collaborate for ventures that will continue far beyond the conference. The Summit is an exciting social gathering that sows the seeds for longtime friendships and professional collaborations, and after it is over, participants continue to engage with each other through a variety of online and offline methods.
Who attends the ROI Summit and joins the Community?
The ROI Summit is an application-based program in which Jewish leaders and innovators – frequently referred by others within their home community – are invited to attend.

The online application process takes place 5-6 months before the Summit itself. The opening of applications and related deadlines are announced on the ROI website and via social media.
 
ROI attendees represent the diversity of the Jewish world - from “seasoned” organization and project directors to lone visionaries, creative artists and young philanthropists. Summit attendees are connected by their engagement in this international community and their desire for collaboration and mutual support of each ’ projects. Summit participants are selected based on a wide range of criteria, including location and area of interest/expertise, below: 

Service / Tikkun Olam
Arts and Culture
Visions of Israel
Environmentalism
Jewish Education
Social Justice
Bridge Building
New Media

No two ROI members are identical, nor do they fit a precise mold. But many ROI Community members fall into one or more of the following categories:
•    Creative and Social Entrepreneurs
•    Change Agents & Community Professionals
•    Connectors & Cultivators of Network Hubs
•    Experts & Capacity Builders

For more information, check ROI's Eligibility Criteria.
When will ROI Summit applicants find out whether they have been accepted?
ROI sends out email notifications to all applicants approximately 2 months before the Summit.
When and where is the next ROI Summit taking place?
The 2013 ROI Summit will take place at the Crowne Plaza Jerusalem hotel from June 9-13. 

What is the cost of attending the ROI Summit?
Summit participation costs are covered in the main by ROI, including airfare (from "gateway cities"), lodging, meals, activities and conference materials. However, there is a symbolic participation fee (non-refundable following confirmation of participation). Personal expenses, flight changes or other special requests are not included. 
What are the year-round ROI offerings?
What began as an annual summit has now become an active year-round community where Jewish innovators collaborate with one another and offer each other strategic support and advice.

Throughout the year, ROI offers its members various opportunities, including: Face-to-face and online networking, professional development sessions and courses and financial support. The ROI Micro Grants program offers monetary assistance to more of its members than ever before.

How can I learn more about ROI?
Check the links on the ROI homepage or go to ROI's About Us section. You can also read about member experiences on our blog. 
 
Join us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter @ROICommunity 
Email: roi@roicommunity.org
Can current ROI members apply to the upcoming ROI Summit?
Applications will only be accepted from those who have not participated in previous ROI Summits or Regional Gatherings. For the sake of clarification, if the only ROI event you've attended is an ROI Connection Point, you ARE eligible to apply to the Summit.

ROI members should stay tuned for information about getting involved in the upcoming ROI Summit.