ISRAEL TEAM
The Synergies team in Israel brings unmatched local insight paired with deep global fundraising know-how.
Tanja and Michael understand the unique opportunities and challenges Israeli nonprofits face when raising funds at home and abroad. Their collaborative, hands-on support empowers Israeli organizations to build capacity, grow donor trust, and achieve sustainable impact.
Founder + Lead Consultant
With over 25 years of international experience, Tanja Sarett, M.A., is a trusted advisor to nonprofit organizations.
Clients value Tanja’s deep, practical expertise in major gifts, capital campaigns, foundation relations, and cross-border fundraising - and her nuanced understanding of how the fundraising culture differs across Israel, North America, and Europe. She brings a deep, versatile fundraising toolbox and proven processes shaped by years of hands-on experience to Israeli amutot and nonprofits. With decades of leadership and global consulting experience, Tanja guides clients through complex challenges to build strategies that work.
Known for her collaborative and values-driven approach, Tanja is a sought-after facilitator, speaker, and certified executive coach. She equips teams with practical tools, strategies, and best practices that create real, sustainable results - always tailored to each organization’s unique mission and cultural context. As host and lead instructor of the Nefesh B’Nefesh Fundraising Course, Tanja also mentors olim, helping them build successful careers in fundraising and resource development.
Tanja made aliyah from New Jersey in 2023 and lives outside of Jerusalem.
Michael Lawrence
Lead Strategist + Senior Consultant
Synergies in Philanthropy Israel collaborates closely with Michael Lawrence to bring impactful fundraising solutions to Israeli nonprofit organizations.
Michael is an experienced nonprofit and fundraising professional and a trusted mentor to leaders across Israel’s dynamic nonprofit sector. His consulting and leadership are grounded in decades of hands-on experience building international fundraising strategies, strengthening Jewish institutions, and cultivating meaningful philanthropic partnerships worldwide. Michael is the founder of Nonprofit Lawrence.
Since 2020, Michael has served as Chief Advancement Officer at Beit Issie Shapiro - Israel’s leading innovator in the field of disabilities. A qualified lawyer in Israel and New Zealand, he draws on a rich background leading development and resource mobilization at prominent organizations such as JDC and The Jewish Agency for Israel.
Known for his clear vision, practical strategies, and positive energy, Michael empowers nonprofits to grow their global resource development, strengthen board relations, and inspire donors to make an impact. He continues to share his expertise as an advisor and mentor for charities and nonprofit leaders, helping organizations navigate complex fundraising environments and turn great ideas into reality.
Michael made aliyah from New Zealand almost 25 years ago and lives near Jerusalem.