There is no question that the world of Jewish philanthropy has taken a huge hit. From the stock market crash, to a real estate washout to Bernie Madoff’s ponzi scheme, Jewish organizations are scrambling to find new donors. It appears that a name to watch for is Guma Aguiar. Aguiar, a philanthropist and founder of Leor Energy, gave $8 million to Nefesh B’Nefesh.

NBN has created a new approach to Aliyah and streamlined the entire process since it was founded six years ago to assist Western Jews who choose to move to Israel. The success of the organization has been phenomenal,  facilitating Aliyah out of choice. Instead of Jews turning to Israel as a sanctuary from persecution, NBN  has created a BUZZ for people to come to Israel because they want to. That’s huge! The Aguiar funds are being used to help meet the needs of thousands of recent newcomers.

According to the press release: “This substantial donation demonstrates how the remarkable commitment of Jews who choose to make Israel their home even in these challenging times, is echoed and fortified by the support of generous individuals like Guma,”  said Tony Gelbart, Co-Founder and Chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh, “these vital funds strengthen  Israel’s human resources and ensure its future. The gift has already played a major role in helping Nefesh B’Nefesh bring a record number of newcomers to Israel in 2008.”

With so many worthy charities to pick from, the fact that Aguiar picked Aliyah is noteworthy. People have spoken about brining 100,000 western olim, and until now, it’s been a pipe dream. Now, due to the generosity of Aguiar, it may turn into a reality.

Kudos to Guma Aguiar on stepping in to fill the Jewish philanthropic void.