Shalem Fund is a Czech-Israeli philanthropic organization dedicated to strengthening the national resilience of the State of Israel, deepening its connection with Jewish communities worldwide, and advancing Czech–Israeli relations.
The organization operates from a Zionist worldview that sees Israel’s strength and prosperity as a national imperative. Shalem advances a broad range of initiatives across education, innovation, and national security, supporting bereaved families, injured and lone soldiers, Druze veterans, small businesses affected by war, and mental-health programs that reinforce Israel’s long-term resilience.
Shalem believes that Israel’s resilience relies on providing steady, long-term support to those who carry the national burden. Its mission is to help them and their families move forward after the hardships they have endured, rebuilding stability, meaning, and hope over time. Shalem also works on the public and international stage to counter disinformation and strengthen Israel’s global image, recognizing that the challenge is not only social but also one of public perception.
Shalem was founded in the aftermath of October 7th by Anna Meissner and Ory Weihs, unifying more than a decade of their personal philanthropic work into one shared mission: creating a platform that enables additional donors and partners to join meaningful, high-impact initiatives.
The founders are deeply committed to full transparency and personal involvement, ensuring that every contribution reaches those who truly need it. Shalem charges no management or operational fees, and its founders have pledged a monthly matching contribution of up to €10,000 to amplify the impact of every donation significantly.
Alongside its ongoing work, Shalem has initiated a series of unique charitable events, including two previous poker tournaments, an art auction, and gatherings connecting Czech and Israeli partners, which together have raised more than 1 million NIS for the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization.
The decision to merge philanthropy with the world of poker is no coincidence: both founders are longtime poker enthusiasts who view the poker community as warm, value-driven, and generous; a community built on camaraderie, mutual support, and shared responsibility. Beyond being competitive and fun, the game can serve as a social bridge, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together around one purpose: doing good.
