Several years ago, as the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation continued to deepen its work with its grantee organizations, it began to gather leaders of these organizations together to express appreciation to them for all their work for the Jewish community and to offer exposure to an environment which would allow them to improve their effectiveness and examine issues of the day. Knowing that individuals are those who form organizations, motivate their vision and impact, and ultimately are the most vital element of community, the CLSFF broadened this program. Retreats and other programs focusing on experienced and younger generation professionals were developed. Younger leaders were recognized for their efforts and impact, and a theory of change began to develop.

In 2006, Lynn Schusterman seed funded the creation of the Center for Leadership Initiatives, Inc., a U.S. based operating foundation dedicated to supporting current and emerging leaders in the Jewish world. The uniqueness of CLI lies in its ability to network key individuals and to listen to the needs they express in their leadership positions. Where CLI is able to offer opportunities for growth and community-minded networking, programs are developed and implemented with eyes wide and ears open. Where issues of dire importance in the community need immediate response, we are able to program accordingly to spark and support change in our community. 

In January 2008, CLI opened its Israel offices to address the myriad of programs which target Jewish leaders around the world. With dedication to open source approaches, we share program materials and lessons learned on an ongoing basis. This is both to help others learn and to model the honesty we are seeking to purvey in the community about best efforts and the ability to grow and learn.