Our History & Response

StandStrong was founded in Chicago in 2020 as a direct response to the increase in hate and intimidation Jewish students were facing on college campuses. Since our launch, StandStrong has become a beacon of empowerment and resilience in communities across the United States.

Over the past five years, StandStrong has impacted over 12,000 people across the country in our programs. We now have active programming in Boston, Chicago, and Miami, where we deliver classes in schools, summer camps, and in collaboration with 40 community partners. Our impact on these communities has been profound, as we continue to be an inspiration for Jewish youth and like-minded supporters to look at and learn from as we stand up against all forms of hatred.

If not me, then who?

If not now, then when?

Hillel the Elder

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The Challange We Face

Unprecedented increases in antisemitism, anti-American rhetoric, and attacks on Western Civilization have left our communities feeling unprepared, vulnerable, and frightened.

The war between Hamas & Israel may be over, but the battle to secure our Jewish heritage and future is only just beginning. We must stand shoulder to shoulder to ensure we StandStrong together.

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Our Mission and Vision

4,000

participants impacted in StandStrong programs

classes delivered

2025 Impact

750

participants completed our 6-class Defender program

programs in Jewish schools nationally

8

42

program partners nationally

Metrics for Success in 2026

400

5,000+

participants impacted in StandStrong programs

1,000+

50

participants completed our 6-class Defender program

15

program partners nationally

programs in Jewish schools nationally

500

classes delivered

Our Team

Matt Travers

Executive Director

Henri Jones

Ronald Gonzalez

Chicago Instructor

Miami Instructor

Gabrielle Schoeffer

Marketing Manager

Leah Rodkin

Miriam Smirnov

Boston Instructor

Boston City Manager

Ben Goldberg- Carson

Chicago Instructor

Natan Levy

StandStrong Ambassador & MMA Champ

Erin Smith

Boston Instructor