High Impact Philanthropy: Naama Ore Of SparkIL On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization
An Interview with Karen Mangia
Do Your Homework: Before diving in, thorough research is essential. Many people believe that all it takes to start an NGO is identifying a need and taking a leap of faith. However, that approach is risky. A successful NGO needs a well-thought-out strategy, a clear understanding of the challenges it aims to address, and a detailed plan for how to address them. Securing initial funding and building a sustainable financial model are also crucial steps before launch. I personally dedicated between approximately 6 months of research.
For someone who wants to set aside money to establish a Philanthropic Foundation or Fund, what does it take to make sure your resources are being impactful and truly effective? In this interview series, called “How To Create Philanthropy That Leaves a Lasting Legacy” we are visiting with founders and leaders of Philanthropic Foundations, Charitable Organizations, and Non-Profit Organizations, to talk about the steps they took to create sustainable success.
As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Naama Ore, CEO of SparkIL.
Naama Ore is the CEO of Spark IL, a unique social fin-tech start-up with a P2P lending platform. In 2018, she started ‘Belong,’ an organization that builds connections between Israelis and Jews worldwide. In 2020, she launched a new international project focused on community building, while also running a private practice as a strategic consultant, advising CEOs of non-profits and government agencies. Seven years ago, she moved back to Israel from the US, where she was the Founding Regional Director of Greater Boston at the Israeli American Council (IAC). Naama has a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University.
Thank you for making time to visit with us about a ‘top of mind’ topic. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?
First, after the birth of my third daughter, I was working at a place for quite a while, and I was set to receive a significant promotion when I returned from maternity leave. I heard chatter when I was away that somebody else is getting the promotion instead of me and close colleagues suggested that I come back to ensure the position is mine. I made the decision to not to be involved in the work-place gossip and focus on my baby girl. I made peace with the choice I made to be with her for a few months and perhaps this promotion wasn’t meant to be. A really smart person told me that it probably felt like I had been slapped in the face, and my head was like a pendulum, but after everything calmed down, I’ll be able to see what’s ahead of me in the long-term.
This close friend passed away recently, and I think about his advice often because it’s so true. All of us are dealing with internal conflicts all the time. When this happens, it’s really important to find our center and look ahead, not just at the next immediate steps right in front of us. By doing this I learned to believe in myself, think about what I want to do with my life and it really opened my horizons.
The second life experience occurred after I had my fourth child and went to study at Harvard University. We moved from Israel to Boston with four kids ages 1–12. It was a wonderful, but challenging year. I had to make sure each of my kids adapted to life in the U.S. all while juggling a very intense courseload. It was a year where I saw for the first time how difficult it is to want to succeed on many fronts at the same time. It took a lot out of me to keep my head above water and in this year, I understood the importance of acknowledging that you’re struggling and asking for help. This was a difficult life lesson to learn.
Both situations taught me that the most valuable life experiences happen when we are the most vulnerable — not when everything is going well.
Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? We would love to hear a few stories or examples.
Life is an intricate tapestry woven from the people we meet, the stories we hear, and the lessons we learn along the way. Three core qualities define how I approach the world and have profoundly shaped my personal and professional journey.
First, I would say I see people for who they are — I look beyond their wealth, status, or background. At the end of the day, we’re all human, each of us navigating our own struggles. This perspective drives me to treat everyone equally and authentically. It’s a daily reminder that behind every face is a story, and that understanding fuels empathy and genuine connection.
Second, I harbor a lifelong curiosity. Curiosity has been my constant companion. I’m always eager to learn, ask questions, and explore new ideas. This openness has taught me the value of recognizing when I don’t know enough and seeking out those who do. Consulting with experts and listening to diverse perspectives have opened doors I never imagined.This mindset has also given me the courage to pivot in my career — three times already. I refuse to settle into complacency. Exposing myself to new worlds and challenges keeps me engaged and constantly growing.
Third, I relish in the power of stories and connection. This quality bridges the first two: my love of hearing people’s stories. I’m deeply curious about what drives others, their ambitions, and their unique experiences. This passion for understanding people has allowed me to become a connector, introducing individuals who can inspire or help one another.
There’s a unique joy in watching how a simple introduction can lead to life-changing opportunities for others. It’s a privilege to play even a small role in creating those moments.
These qualities — seeing people for who they are, a hunger for learning, and a love of connecting through stories — are the foundation of my approach to life. They’ve not only shaped my relationships and career but also deepened my understanding of the world. Ultimately, I believe that authenticity, curiosity, and connection are the keys to building meaningful relationships and fostering growth, both for ourselves and for those around us.
What’s the most interesting discovery you’ve made since you started leading your organization?
One of the most surprising discoveries in my career has been that, until recently, I had never worked in finance. It’s almost humorous to think about now, as I find myself at the helm of a FinTech company.
When I first stepped into this world, I found it daunting. Finance seemed complex and intimidating, something far removed from my previous experiences. But over the past few years, I’ve realized it’s far less overwhelming than I had imagined. At my core, I’ve always been a numbers person, so as I immersed myself in this field, things started to click.
What’s remarkable is that I didn’t take this leap until I was 50. Up until that point, finance was never on my radar. This shift was a significant pivot in my life, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. Now, I find myself managing credit committees and developing financial strategies for the organization with a sense of ease and confidence I never anticipated.
Looking back, it’s a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to embrace change and master something new.
Can you please tell our readers more about how you or your organization intends to make a significant social impact?
Our mission is driven by two core pillars of social impact: empowering underserved populations and fostering meaningful connections among people.
The first pillar focuses on supporting underserved communities in Israel, particularly those who are unbanked and lack access to credit. These are individuals and small business owners striving to live with dignity, provide for their families, and build sustainable futures.
In Israel, 97.5% of businesses are small operations — a trend reflected worldwide. Yet, many of these businesses are excluded from traditional financial systems and unable to access the credit they need to grow or thrive. This creates a cycle of stagnation and missed opportunities.
Our work aims to break this cycle by offering loans to those whom others overlook. By doing so, we give these individuals and businesses a chance to succeed. Time and again, we hear from borrowers who deeply appreciate the opportunity because we see them as people, not just numbers. We take the time to hear their stories, and that recognition of their humanity is a vital part of the impact we create.
The second pillar of our social impact is about fostering connections — bringing people together in a way that encourages mutual care and support. This engagement transcends geographical boundaries, uniting individuals within Israeli society and beyond.
This isn’t solely about Israel; it’s about creating a network of people who care. Through our platform, lenders from around the world can support Israeli small businesses and, in doing so, form meaningful connections. What begins with a microloan often evolves into something much deeper.
Lenders have the opportunity to mentor borrowers, visit the businesses they’ve supported, and witness firsthand the growth they’ve helped facilitate. Borrowers, in turn, provide updates on how they’ve used the loans to build their businesses, creating a tangible bond of trust and shared success.
These connections demonstrate that care and compassion can span distances. A single loan can be the starting point for a relationship that empowers both lender and borrower, showcasing the profound impact of human connection in driving positive change.
Through these two approaches — supporting underserved populations and fostering meaningful relationships — we are working to create a ripple effect of social impact, one loan and one connection at a time.
What makes you feel passionate about this cause more than any other?
From a very young age, my parents instilled in me the importance of noticing and valuing people who often go unseen. I vividly recall a childhood experience that shaped this perspective. While living in Boston, our close family friends had a child who was deaf. When I was around 10, I visited their home and became fascinated by sign language. Inspired, I began taking sign language classes so I could communicate with him. Even at that young age, I was aware of how society viewed him and others like him differently, and it stayed with me.
Today, I’m proud to see this value reflected in my own children. My son’s best friend since kindergarten had a handicap disability, and while many kids hesitated to play with him, he was a regular guest in our home. These experiences remind me of the importance of seeing and supporting those who are often overlooked.
At SparkIL, this principle is at the heart of what we do. We work to uplift people on the fringes of society — those who aren’t always given the opportunities they deserve. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that through our work, we can help change lives. I’m deeply passionate about giving everyone a chance to thrive, even in a world that doesn’t always work that way. If I can contribute to making things just a bit more equitable, it brings me immense joy.
The second cause close to my heart is Israel, a country I consider nothing short of a miracle. Although I’ve lived abroad for many years for work, my family and I chose to return and raise our children here. Now, as a mother with children serving in the army, I’m incredibly proud of their contributions. At the same time, it’s emotionally taxing to worry about them daily.
Through SparkIL, I get to share a different side of Israel’s story. It’s not about politics or the military but about the people — the farmers, artisans, dreamers, and small business owners who call this country home. This storytelling excites me and fuels my passion.
Just recently, I spoke with a student from Washington, D.C., who interviewed me after SparkIL hosted a successful event at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, Maryland. When I asked why he was interested in learning more, he said he was amazed that through SparkIL, he could connect with and support real people — farmers, chocolate makers, and entrepreneurs. He’d carefully read the bios of the businesses in his portfolio and felt excited to choose where to send his $36.
Moments like these drive me. They remind me that behind every business and every loan is a story. SparkIL isn’t just about providing financial assistance — it’s about truly listening. What do you need? What is your dream? By hearing these stories and sharing them with others, we create connections that inspire action and empathy.
Ultimately, my passions for helping the unseen and sharing Israel’s story intersect at SparkIL, where I get to make a meaningful impact every day.
Without naming names, could you share a story about an individual who benefitted from your initiatives?
At SparkIL, we witness incredible stories of resilience and generosity. Today, I want to share two that deeply moved me — one about a borrower and another about a lender.
Or is nothing short of a hero. After dedicating 15 years to military service, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a chef and pastry expert by opening her own coffee chain. As a single mother, she successfully managed two coffee shops while raising her daughters — a feat of strength and determination.
But on October 7th, her life was upended. That day, Or found herself alone in a bomb shelter, clutching a knife as she heard terrorists outside her home. Miraculously, they couldn’t open the door, leaving her unharmed, though her daughters were in another part of the kibbutz.
Despite the trauma of that day and its aftermath, Or’s resilience shone through. The next day, she returned to reserve duty, even after being evacuated from her home, because she believes in her country and her ability to rebuild.
Her challenges didn’t end there. Both of her coffee shops were destroyed by terrorists while she was on reserve duty, leaving her on the brink of bankruptcy. We had the privilege of supporting Or during this difficult time, helping her find a path forward. Her courage, strength, and determination to provide for her family inspire us all.
The second story is about Dave, a dedicated microlender on our platform. When we notice someone lending repeatedly to different businesses, we often reach out to learn more about their connection to SparkIL. As a relatively young organization, we value this feedback to continue improving and growing.
Dave shared that he’s become “addicted” to SparkIL stories. Through our platform, he’s discovered inspiring individuals and their incredible journeys. For Dave, giving $36 or $360 is more than a financial contribution — it’s a way to support someone’s dreams and give them hope.
What struck me most was his belief that lending through SparkIL is about more than money. It’s about bringing hope to life, empowering people to believe in themselves, and supporting their aspirations.
Both Or and Dave embody the heart of what SparkIL represents: resilience, generosity, and hope. Or’s story reminds us of the strength of the human spirit, while Dave’s generosity shows the profound impact that one person can make. Together, their stories highlight how SparkIL is not just a platform for lending but a community where dreams are nurtured, and lives are transformed.
We all want to help and to live a life of purpose. What are three actions anyone could take to help address the root cause of the problem you’re trying to solve?
The first action is to see who needs help and connect with their story. Visit SparkIL’s website, read about business owners who have undergone a financial vetting process, ensuring a high likelihood of repayment ability. Second, choose the amount you want to lend to them. Third, you can offer to become a mentor, purchase their products/services, or visit them on your next trip to Israel. By taking these three actions, you express your trust in them and their potential.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things You Need To Create A Successful & Effective Nonprofit That Leaves A Lasting Legacy?”
Starting a nonprofit organization is a noble endeavor, but it’s also a complex process that requires careful planning and strategic thinking. Based on my experiences, here are key lessons for launching and successfully managing an NGO:
1. Do Your Homework: Before diving in, thorough research is essential. Many people believe that all it takes to start an NGO is identifying a need and taking a leap of faith. However, that approach is risky. A successful NGO needs a well-thought-out strategy, a clear understanding of the challenges it aims to address, and a detailed plan for how to address them. Securing initial funding and building a sustainable financial model are also crucial steps before launch. I personally dedicated between approximately 6 months of research.
2. Build a Strong Board: The board is the backbone of any NGO, and assembling a group of formidable, knowledgeable, and passionate individuals is key. While working with board members and lay leaders can be challenging, it’s worth the effort. When you have people rooting for your success, their expertise and networks can be invaluable.
That said, the CEO must cultivate a respectful, mutually supportive relationship with the board. Understand why each member is volunteering their time, value their input, and keep them engaged with the organization’s mission. A strong, aligned board can be a game-changer. I meet with every board member a few times a year to cultivate and deepen their engagement in the work we do focusing on their passions.
3. Embrace Agility and Be Willing to Experiment: In any new venture, adaptability is key, and this is especially true for NGOs. Unexpected challenges will arise, and being agile and quick on your feet can make the difference between success and failure. Flexibility and the ability to pivot when things don’t go as planned are vital skills for leaders in this space. Not every initiative will succeed, and that’s okay. The important thing is to learn from both successes and failures. Experimentation fosters innovation and helps refine your strategies over time. Personally, we constantly pilot activities with different audiences, analyze the data from these experiments, and adjust or discontinue the activity based on the results. Taking calculated risks is simply part of the process.
4. Build a Strong Team: Your staff is the lifeblood of your organization, so hiring the right people is crucial. Look for individuals who align with the NGO’s mission and values. If a team member isn’t the right fit, it’s essential to address the situation promptly and professionally to maintain team morale and avoid burning bridges. A strong, cohesive team can drive the organization forward and help achieve its goals. I often address my team in a way that’s similar to how I speak to my children, encouraging collaboration and a willingness to support one another.
5. Set clear goals and Stay Mission-Focused
Establishing both short-term and long-term goals is critical. These goals provide direction, ensure accountability, and allow the organization to measure progress. Always think a few steps ahead to prepare for future opportunities and challenges.
Moreover, It’s easy to lose sight of the big picture when buried in daily tasks and to-do lists. However, keeping the organization’s mission front and center is essential for everyone involved — staff, board members, and donors alike. A clear sense of purpose will guide decision-making, inspire stakeholders, and keep the organization moving in the right direction.
How has the pandemic changed your definition of success?
While SparkIL wasn’t operational during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, October 7, 2023, marked a defining moment for our organization. That day, Hamas terrorists crossed Israel’s borders, killing 1,200 people and leaving countless lives shattered. This tragedy was a paradigm shift for SparkIL, sharpening our focus and redefining our mission.
In the aftermath of the attack, thousands of businesses found themselves unable to operate. Many owners were either evacuated from their homes, called up for reserve duty, or both. These businesses faced an urgent need for financial support. During this devastating time — a period whose effects are still deeply felt — we stepped up to bring hope not only to struggling business owners but also to lenders who sought meaningful ways to assist those in need.
Our initial mission centered on supporting businesses in Israel’s periphery, but the war expanded our focus. We pivoted quickly, establishing an emergency loan fund to aid those directly impacted by the conflict. This shift brought new stakeholders into our ecosystem and enabled us to provide critical support during an unprecedented crisis.
SparkIL’s ability to adapt in the face of immense challenges has reinforced our commitment to building connections and supporting resilience in the communities we serve. This experience underscored that, even in the darkest moments, we can find ways to create hope and opportunity.
How do you get inspired after an inevitable setback?
Inspiration after a setback comes from perspective. I’ve learned to remind myself to put things into proportion. The world — and especially Israel — faces so many truly devastating challenges. Having two sons fighting in Gaza has been a daily reminder of this reality.
When I step back and see the bigger picture, I realize that while setbacks can be frustrating, they’re often manageable compared to the hardships others face. This perspective helps me regain focus, reframe my challenges, and find the strength to move forward.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non-profit? He, she, or they might just see this, especially if we tag them.
I would love the opportunity to speak with Jessica Jackley, the co-founder of Kiva, who has been championing development through microloans for the past 20 years. Her insights and experiences in building a platform that empowers underserved communities would be incredibly valuable. Learning from her journey to success would not only be inspiring but also instrumental in shaping SparkIL’s future growth and impact.
You’re doing important work. How can our readers follow your progress online?
I invite all readers to visit SparkIL.org and become part of our mission. Whether through a microloan, an impact investment, or by forming an organizational partnership, your involvement can make a real difference. Supporting small businesses has never been more urgent or meaningful than it is today. Together, we can create lasting impact.
Thank you for a meaningful conversation. We wish you continued success with your mission.
About The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book Success from Anywhere and by connecting with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
High Impact Philanthropy: Naama Ore Of SparkIL On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful &… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.