Jonah Engler found the passion of giving at a young age. His mom was employed by the United Federation of Teachers (UFT). Through her, he secured “pre-college” employment there. He thoroughly enjoyed this work, and developed many of the tools that helped build the man he is today. He most enjoys giving of his time, energy, and yes money, toward organizations he truly believes in. This includes Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness, AIDS research, Children of Promise, among others.
His life of paying forward begins at home. He is the father of three children with whom he spends as much quality time with as possible. When he manages to find free time, he enjoys sports, food, and great music. Lately, Jonah has found inspiration through Buddhism, romanticism, and how these areas can be incorporated into everyday life.
Jonah has become a subject matter expert in the realm of Buddhism, “applying them to matters of life opens an individual to more creative avenues and ultimately to experience fulfillment in life”, according to Jonah. He has broadened his knowledge to other important subjects, such as combating climate change, the human mind, and finding the best cup of coffee. Jonah is a well-versed individual, passionate about others, and loves to give his knowledge and time in hopes of making positive, long-lasting impacts on those around him
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
Love, not just physical or emotional love, an all-encompassing adoration for all aspects of life. Oh, and coffee.
How do you make money?
We secure monies for our philanthropy through fundraisers. This includes charity balls, dinners, auctions, etc.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
When it comes to philanthropy, not everyone can immediately see your mission and cause. It took a lot of convincing before finding the right people to invest in our foundation.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Word of mouth, online scholarships, and the like all have benefitted us in generating new leads to help expand our giving-back.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
I am a big dreamer and as such, I find giving a passion of mine, it was instilled in me by mother ever since I was young. With this in mind, sometimes one has to cut ties with relationships – both in business and in personal life – in order to remain successful.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Personally, I do not believe that any philanthropic endeavor is a failure; however, the thought that I knew everything, but oh man I was wrong. Steadily, I listened to Buddhist teachings and began to paint broader picture of every aspect of life. The key is not to know everything, but to accept that you don’t and learn for yourself
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
One of my most satisfying moments was watching a young man I mentored after his father was sent to prison, graduate with high honors.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
A recent trend that fascinates me is how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to predict weather with unparalleled accuracy. AI can be used to predicts major weather events and tell growers when and how to prepare their crops. AI in this aspect can be a major tool to circumvent the devastation of climate change on those who are less fortunate
What business books have inspired you?
“What the Buddha Taught” is the perfect book that introduces and concisely explains the principles and teachings of Buddhism and gives a greats relevance to today’s society.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
G suite: I use it for literally everything, it keeps me on time, allows collaboration, I can view and share any files, etc.