Michael Staenberg - The Gift of Giving by michael-staenberg

THE GIFT OF GIVING

THE GIFT OF GIVING

All photographs, unless indicated otherwise, are provided courtesy of the Michael Staenberg properties. Where credited, photos appear or appear under license granted to Michael Staenberg. Any errors that may have occurred will be corrected in subsequent editions provided notification is sent to Michael Staenberg.

Interviews by: Debbie Chase

Written by: Renée Rockford

Consulting by: Ericka Zoll-Phelan, Founder/ Owner of EZP Fundraising Consulting

First printing edition, 2025

Printed in the United States of America

The Gift of Giving

On any given day, there is a flow of emails with subject lines that say, “Bravo,” “Kudos,” “Another High Five,” and many that simply say, “Thank you.” The in-box belongs to self-made businessman Michael Staenberg, and the messages come from the many recipients of his philanthropic gifts to communities and organizations across the country.

Michael says philanthropic giving is something he learned from his father. “He taught me that we were not a family that gives 10% to charity, as the Torah teaches; my father always told me we were a 20% family.” His father, Marty Staenberg z'l, was in his early 30s and growing his business as a residential property developer. “He taught us the value of hard work, and of the importance of giving back,” says Michael. “Beyond important, he framed it as an obligation.”

Philanthropy is not an option. It’s a responsibility.

The Red Jacket

Michael often tells a story from his childhood when all he really wanted was a red athletic jacket, just like the ones worn by his home-state University of Nebraska Cornhuskers. His father told him that if he did enough chores, he could earn the money for the coat. Michael remembers, “I worked and worked. When I finally had the money to buy the coat, my dad placed the money in front of me and started putting it into piles. I knew right away what was happening. My dad asked, ‘How much goes to tzedakah (charity)?’

back from what you earn is even more so.”

In 1967, Michael’s father died suddenly of a heart attack. Michael was just 13-years old and the eldest of four children in the family. He took after-school jobs like bagging groceries to help his mother, Marlene z'l, pay the bills and to look after his sister, Beth, and brothers, David and Jon. They lived in a middle-class Omaha neighborhood in a modest 1,400 square-foot home.

After taking that portion out, there was not enough money left for the coat. I was so upset! My father said, ‘You have two choices. You can quit, or you can work until you have enough left to buy the coat.’ I eventually made the right choice, worked another month, and was able to get the coat. It’s a lesson that’s stuck with me to this day. ….I learned then that hard work is important, but giving

In a time of tremendous loss, Michael says it was the Jewish community that was there for him. He got involved in his local Jewish Community Center, connected with other teens, and says he found a new sense of family there. Time on the basketball court and a trip to summer camp helped him build friendships. Synagogue and business leaders, he says, were always there to mentor and guide him, and many have remained life-long friends. “I always want to help kids, because there were so many people who helped me when I was that age.”

I hope you are doing well! I just wanted to give you a quick update about what I will be doing after I graduate this spring. I accepted a role at U.S. Bank in a Finance Rotation Program in Minneapolis. I wanted to thank you again for the opportunity to work for you two summers ago. For each of my interviews this year I always mentioned something I did at your company, and I would not be where I am today without the opportunity.

Charlie Rosenzweig

Michael Staenberg with his parents at his Bar Mitzvah, April 8, 1967, in Omaha, Nebraska.

Real Estate is Good Business

After majoring in Finance and Economics at Arizona State University, he had his sights set on commercial real estate. Michael turned down jobs with Gulf Oil and The May Company. When he was 22 years-old, became a commercial real estate broker for the Leo Eisenberg Company in Kansas City. It took time to learn the ropes. His first year, Michael’s income was $2,290, and he waited tables to make ends meet. His second year, he made $7,900, but in year three, he said, things started to click.

“Looking at McDonald’s listings in the Yellow Pages, I realized how much McDonald’s was expanding. I called a McDonald’s estate acquisition officer named H. Webb Blessley z'l, known for doing real estate contracts on a dinner napkin, and said, ‘Mr. Blessley, I’d like to do your McDonald’s deals.’” From then forward, Blessley became a mentor.

Michael started as a leasing agent, managed several properties as a property manager, became a third-party broker for outside clients, and finally a real estate developer. He had a knack for putting odds on favorites on successful businessmen and learning all that he could from them.

While brokering deals for McDonald’s, he had the opportunity to meet Ray Kroc, widely regarded as the “Founder of McDonald’s” for his role in turning a singular hamburger stand into the most successful global fastfood corporation in the world. Staenberg also

met Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart and Sam’s Club. What the three of them had in common was an entrepreneurial spirit, humble

Ray Kroc, Founder of McDonald’s.

Credit: New York Times

On this site in Des Plaines, IL on April 15, 1955, Ray Kroc, opened his first restaurant. 45 years later, McDonald's Corporation had become. the largest and best-known food service retailer in the world.

Credit: Tim Boyle

business beginnings, and the ability to focus on what’s possible. Michael eventually became the Senior Vice President and Director of Real Estate for the Leo Eisenberg Company. In the 1980s, the company had become the largest developer of open shopping centers in the

United States. Michael worked there until 1989, and it was at Eisenberg that he met some of his most influential mentors, including Leo Eisenberg z'l, Ira Maizlish z'l, Arvin Gottlieb z'l, Bob Johnson, Arnold Schamberg z'l, and Peter DiGiovanni.

Finding Mentors

From the time that Michael’s father died, there were mentors at his side. “I didn’t get here by myself. At a time in my life when I was ‘unmoored,’ someone took interest in me.” In addition to those who helped him at Leo Eisenberg, others have been critical to Michael’s success: Jerry Freeman, Cory West, J Madden, Larry Cackin, David Rifkin, Harol Woodlin, Lee Wielansky, Donn Soffer, Stan Kroenke, Milton Goldenberg, and Tom Fellman.

“I’m glad to pay it forward, he says. “I want to help people recognize their potential. Often, people outside of your parents are the ones who can make the biggest difference. I talk to young people who want to be in real estate. I tell them to go to college, and then I’ll hire them. I give them advice on how to succeed.” He says he talks to both his mentees and mentors nearly every day. And nearly every day, Michael gets emails like this one from a former employee:

On behalf of everyone whose lives you have improved, thank you. The people who are working for you often do not understand what it is like to be in charge. They have no responsibility for the profitability of the company or even the outcome of a particular deal or transaction. This is not a negative on the people working for the weekly paycheck. It is simply that they have not been in a position where the success or failure falls on their shoulders. The decisions that most people find callus or non-caring usually revolve around the tough decisions that a leader must make to keep a company going. Thank you from all the people that rely on you and for putting yourself out there every day. While it is possible for you to be appreciated for all the sacrifices that you make to keep things going, no one fully understands but you. Keep it up.

Gary Grewe

Third Party Brokerage

Michael learned not just from mentors, but from experience along the way. “The leasing, third party brokerage and property management helped me understand how to become a better broker, and a better developer,” said Michael. “Being a developer helped me become a better businessman. I learned it takes 100 different things to become successful. If you didn’t do one of them, you could fail,” says Michael.

In addition to Walmart, Sam’s Club, and McDonald’s, Michael also represented top industry clients like Blockbuster Video, Kroger, Lowe’s Home Improvement Centers, Payless Shoes, Pearl Vision, AMC Theaters, and Taco Bell. Part of his success is getting to know how his clients’ businesses run and that includes the frontline workers who make his industry titans tick. “If I was going to lease a Godfather’s Pizza outfit, I spent a week working side by side the crew so that I understood what that business was all about,” he said.

In 1989, Michael left Eisenberg and cofounded THF Realty with now-billionaire Stanley Kroenke, owner of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. (THF stands for “To Have Fun,” reflecting what Michael calls his joy and enthusiasm for life.) The company owned properties in almost half of the states across America. THF become known as a national investor, developer, manager and owner of commercial properties, including shopping centers and office buildings. The company grew to become the third largest commercial real estate firm in the United States.

In 1993 while part of THF, Michael was looking for possible St. Louis sites for Walmart. It was the same year of historic flooding of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers; from April to October, the rivers and their tributaries reached historic levels; the Mississippi at St. Louis crested at nearly 50 feet above flood stage and measured a peak flow rate that would flood a bowl the size of Busch Memorial Stadium in St. Louis in just 70 seconds.

As the waters receded, where most saw ruin, Michael saw opportunity. He envisioned a revitalization of this devastated region. From the ground up, he built what has become the cornerstone of Chesterfield’s economic landscape, stretching two miles and housing more than 130 retail stores and restaurants in two million square-feet of space. The project took nearly 20 years.

The Commons received numerous awards and recognition for beautification, architecture, traffic and interchange design, overall development, and civic impact. The $200 million investment made significant improvements to the Chesterfield Valley, including the levee, the interchange, bike paths and development. “Who else would spend money on the beauty of the overpass,” comments Lynn Wittels, former President and CEO of the St. Louis Jewish Community Center. “He knew that what you experience

first is with your eyes. So, the entry into the space had to be pleasing.”

By the time he and Kroenke went their own ways, THF Realty had acquired and developed more than 38 million square feet of retail shopping space across the country, making it one of the largest private real estate development companies in the U.S. Today, they still co-own the Chesterfield Commons property.

For his part, Michael went on to launch The Staenberg Group, a privately held company headquartered in St. Louis, and dedicated to building premier properties to best serve the community. Michael continues to develop, lease, and manage a portfolio of leading shopping centers. Notably, TSG created The Factory and The District, resurrecting a dilapidated outlet mall and reimagining it into an innovative dining, music, and entertainment venue.

This photo was taken the morning after the Missouri River burst through the Monarch levee on August 1, 1993, giving way to massive flooding in an industrial area in Chesterfield Bottoms in St. Louis.

Credit: St. Louis Post Dispatch.

Innovating and Redefining Community

The District - Michael has continued to develop and innovate in the region. When Taubman Prestige Outlets closed its doors in 2018, Michael saw another opportunity to create something extraordinary for the St. Louis community, and The District was born. The District is a full-service entertainment district where community, entertainment, and innovation come together to redefine what a vibrant social hub can be for families, friends, and visitors alike.

As the westward growth of St. Louis continues,

Michael and his team wanted to offer an experience that rivals downtown attractions, bringing convenience and excitement to Chesterfield and the surrounding areas. “By revitalizing the former outlet space,” explains Michael, “we are not just transforming a physical location—we’re building a vibrant community hub where people can come together to eat, play, and explore.”

The Hub STL - At the heart of The District is The Hub STL, a five-acre, outdoor event space, surrounded by retail, that serves as the community’s gathering spot for live music, movie nights, family activities, and seasonal festivities. Over 40,000 people visit the HUB monthly for fitness and wellness events, yoga on the green, bicycle rentals and trail rides, food trucks, corn hole leagues, family reunions, team-building events, and more.

And the “thank you’s” keep coming: I often count myself lucky that you hired me at Leo Eisenberg and was able to learn the real estate business and watch you operate. The redevelopment of The District is pretty amazing, particularly, the level of creativity, commitment of capital and innovation is impressive. It will make a great case study.

Jim Sachs

The Factory

- The District also houses The Factory, a state-of-the-art, 52,000-squarefeet concert venue with capacity for 3,800 concertgoers, free parking, and cutting-edge lighting and sound. The Factory was voted best the music venue in St Louis three years in a row. The Factory also hosts conventions, conferences, business meetings, weddings and other private engagements.

“After that initial development, I wanted good music venues in St. Louis where you could park and feel safe. We went across the country to see 15-20 music venues. The real customer for a music venue is the musician or the artist, so the lighting, sound, parking, getting in and out must work for them. That’s how I built the Factory and The District STL –entertainment, shopping, eating – all of that happens in The District STL. All is customer and audience focused.”

Downtown Chesterfield -

Michael’s newest innovation is Downtown Chesterfield. Unlike other mixed-use projects being developed throughout the U.S., Downtown Chesterfield will be a true downtown core with high-rise office, hotel, retail and residential uses. It is being developed around the site of recently demolished Chesterfield Mall. A 3.15-acre central park is at the heart of the development plan which is home to hundreds of shops, restaurants and corporate headquarters. Thousands of residents, workers and visitors will enjoy the vibrant community, which includes a 1.25-mile pedestrian loop that places all residents and tenants of this district within a 5 -to10 minute walk of any destination in Downtown Chesterfield. Pocket parks, jogging trails, and bicycle paths will be situated throughout the 117-acre site to provide equal access

Baltimore Orioles Cal Ripken Jr, (8) victorious, on the field after breaking Lou Gehrig's 2130 game record during game vs California Angels, Baltimore, MD.

to all areas of Downtown Chesterfield and connectivity to the surrounding community.

With a grid of tree-lined streets designed for corporate headquarters, luxury condominiums, upscale apartments, hotels, retail, restaurants and entertainment, Downtown Chesterfield will offer a walkable, safe, and ecologically sustainable district that gives priority to the pedestrian over the automobile. It includes nine acres of park space, with more than 25% of the site dedicated to public plazas, sidewalks, parks, trails, and rain gardens.

Michael believes in being a good steward of the environment, incorporating native landscaping, art, natural habitats and bike

trails into developments. “Leadership is the ability to look long-term and execute short term,” says Michael. As he looks to the future and developing downtown Chesterfield, his track record builds confidence from the community. “Michael is a local, reputable developer who values Chesterfield,” comments Bob Nation, former Mayor of Chesterfield. “He can get a project like this to the finish line. There are lots of decisions along the way to be made, and he has the expertise and know how to navigate complex processes. This type of development is what the residents like to see.”

He and his commercial real estate company continue to rack up admirable and remarkable success; Michael has been involved in more than 200 developments that encompass more than 45 million square feet of retail and entertainment space.

Michael credits his tenacity for much of his success. “It takes that long to get good at something,” He explains. “You have to show up on time, and you have to want it. But it’s not about the money. The money never leads the deal. You must have passion. Cal Ripken is one of my favorite baseball players. He showed up every day. He holds the record for 2,632 consecutive games played, having surpassed Lou Gehrig’s streak of 2,130. The lesson Is don’t watch the other team practice. Pay attention to what you are doing and keep showing up.” When it comes to real estate, Michael says you have to care about what you are creating. “Real estate is not a commodity. You have to hold it and enhance it. That’s how you create value.”

Words to Live By

Anyone who knows Michael knows that he embraces simple and basic operating principals — expressed in pithy sentences and sayings. “Every Peak Has a Valley.” “I may be here alone, but I didn’t get here by myself.” “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to want to go further, go together.” “If you want my money, you’re getting my advice. If you want my advice, you’re getting my money.” “Time kills all deals,” and more.

The one that guides his philanthropic giving is this: “Don’t Give to Get. Give to Give.”

Michael began making significant charitable donations less than a decade after graduating from college. In 1986, he made his first large gift, $80,000 to the Dwight Davis Tennis Center in St. Louis’s historic Forest Park. The gift was to retrofit the center court, to make it a gathering place, and enhance the facility for the community.

Michael’s donations to individual organizations range from $180 to more than $10,000,000.

Those who have known Michael the longest have seen the tremendous value of his giving. “I met Michael in 1977 when he started his career,” says Scott Slabotsky, “I was his accountant for over four decades. He sets the bar for philanthropy because he leads by example. With Michael, you get his money, his energy, his vision and his expertise.

He’s very passionate about making a difference and benefiting communities he’s involved in. In my career as a CPA, there are very few people that are like him. “

Michael makes major investments to key organizations that are truly transformative. He fervently believes that we live locally and so should give locally. He gives his money, time, expertise, and other resources to many organizations where he has strong ties.

He also understands the value of spreading donations throughout the community and has made smaller donations to hundreds of organizations, forming strong relationships along the way. Eighty percent of his donations

More than anything you have accomplished in this world; your greatest legacy is your good name and reputation as a giver— someone who changes lives and makes a real difference. It reminded me of a story about Sir Moses Montefiore, one of the great philanthropists of the past few centuries. The Queen of England once asked him, “Sir Moses, what are you worth?” He paused, then gave a number. Surprised, she responded, “But surely your wealth is much more than that?” With a smile, Sir Moses replied, “Your Majesty, you asked what I am worth, not what I own. So, I calculated how much I have given to charity this year—because in the end, we are worth what we are willing to share with others. What I own in assets I may lose overnight, but what I give away I know I will keep forever!.”

Michael, more than your tremendous assets, it is your impact that defines you. That was the sentiment behind the gift, though I know that small plaque hardly does justice to the depth of your generosity.

With admiration,

Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel

go towards Jewish organizations, including support for Jewish community centers, synagogues, camps, youth groups, and humanitarian groups in Israel. The remaining 20% of his giving focused on the arts, education, parks, health care, and social services.

In 2005, Michael established The Staenberg Family Foundation, at the urging of his

mentor, Tom Green z’l, who would serve as the first board member. The foundation’s mission is to mobilize resources needed to preserve and enhance Jewish life in St. Louis, in Israel, and around the world. Over the past 20 years, through his foundation and additional personal donations, Michael has given over $160 million in cash donations to over 1,600 organizations.

Tom Green

Inspiring and Motivating Others

Part of Michael’s giving is to inspire others. “I want my daughters, Rachael, Hannah and Leah to know that you’re not going to go broke giving. I’m proud of who they’ve become. They are kind, blessed, and willing to make a positive impact on the world. And they are all also amazing mothers. They have learned that you can always give time, talent, or treasure,” says Michael. He works to bring others on his philanthropic journey. It is the Talmudic teaching that says, “The one who causes the performance of charitable deeds is greater than the one who actually performs the deed, since often much effort must be expended to convince others to assist in charitable works.”

Motivating others is a big part of Michael’s philanthropic philosophy. “When a large stone is tossed in the middle of a still pond, the wave will quickly lose its initial energy and the pond will return to calm and still,”

Michael explains. “Instead, we need hundreds of handfuls of smaller stones being constantly thrown into the pond. We need converging ripples going to and coming from every direction. We need for the pond to never be still.” Small pebbles and large stones both make ripples in the pond; all contributions are important. Michael’s philanthropy sometimes wrests in the power of small challenge grants.

Michael had been active in the St. Louis Regional Business Council (RBC) for 25 years and about 15 years ago, he realized that a small grant fund could help the business coalition make a lasting impact to the nonprofit community. He helped create and then raised all the funds for what became the “It’s Our Region Fund,” which has funded small capital projects to improve technology and physical plants for over 270 local nonprofits and given away approximately $2 million.

I love the philosophy behind these grants, Michael. I was actually just at a Bak Museum board meeting the other day, and they were talking about the “Anything Grant” they received. Really cool to hear stories of this in the wider community. Thanks for these amazing gifts!

Phillip Malcom

The one who causes the performance of charitable deeds is greater than the one who actually performs the deed, since often much effort must be expended to convince others to assist in charitable works.

The Talmud

In 2013, Michael launched the “ Staenberg Anything Grants,” administered through local Federation offices in multiple cities. Staenberg Anything Grants™ are awarded to Jewish non-profit organizations seeking to fund a specific project or program. These one-time matching grants are for $5,000 and account for up to 50 percent of the project budget.

“Anything Grants™ leave a legacy by spreading tangible acts of goodwill through the Colorado Jewish community and by encouraging others in the community to support important initiatives, projects, and organizations,” says Michael. Since they were launched, more than $400,000 in Anything Grants have been awarded to more than 400 organizations in St. Louis and Omaha.

Lead by Example

One night, Michael was having a scotch at the Ritz-Carlton bar in St. Louis and noticed a man alone at the end of the bar also drinking scotch. He slid down and sat next to him and started a conversation that would change lives. That man was Timothy Eberlein, an oncology surgeon who would later head the Siteman Cancer Center at Washington University/Barnes Jewish Hospital. He quickly invited Michael to an event in the ballroom, and Michael accepted, not knowing what the event was about. It turned out to be the initial fundraising for the Siteman Cancer Center. After the seed gift from Al Siteman. Michael raised his hand to make the first gift of the evening for $10,000, and others quickly followed his lead. The event ended up raising $2 million that night. “I learned about the power of lead gifts,” said Michael, “and the power of friendship.”

Yet, what makes Michael’s giving truly extraordinary is that he invests far more than cash. Getting hands on with each and every

project makes Michael’s philanthropy stand out. Funding worthy causes is important to him, but being a real part of the change in the community moves him even more. Michael lends his professional expertise and vast network to assist organizations with sound business practices, access to builders, developers, facilities, property and capital. He has generously used this leverage and development expertise to help nonprofit organizations purchase buildings, retain loans, and make building improvements so that they can serve clients more effectively and efficiently. He has donated over $670 million in building improvements, property donations, art donations, leveraged gifts, in-kind donations, and deferred maintenance.

“I give because it brings me joy. A lot of it is about relationships. If I like the people and they seem genuine, and I make a donation. But I keep giving if the organization does the work. An organization needs to be run like a business with follow through and expertise. There are lots of good ideas, but sound execution – with

I learned about the power of lead gifts and the power of friendship

rigorous accounting practices for things like invoicing and thanking donors — is key.”

“I make it look easy because I know what I’m good at,” he says. “I stay in my lane. I’m good at what I do because I practice every day. Former pro-baseball centerfielder Jim Edmonds made catching look easy, but it was because he practiced. “

He serves as a board member and has been in numerous leadership roles for agencies including the Jewish Community Center (St. Louis, Omaha, Denver, and Kansas City), the St. Louis Regional Business Council, Jewish Federation of St. Louis, St. Louis Jewish Light, Foundation of Jewish Camps, Birthright, St. Louis University Board of Trustees, Sheldon Arts Foundation, Variety Club, the St. Louis Charity, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Art Museum, Contemporary Art Museum of St. Louis, Center of Creative Arts, St. Louis Zoo, and Forest Park Forever, among others.

But his heart remains first and foremost with the Jewish community and Jewish organizations. “It’s rare that you walk into a

Jewish institution that Michael didn’t have a hand in – from money, to facilities, to refining services and processes,”says Todd Siwak, former board president of Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “From stem to stern, his fingerprints are on it. He’s the best project manager that I’ve ever seen. His commitment to excellence and willingness to invest himself holistically is completely unique. He leans in well beyond his financial philanthropy. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Revitalizing the St. Louis Jewish Community Center

In 1984, Michael entered the St. Louis Jewish Community Center (JCC) for the first time, basketball in hand, ready to shoot baskets. More than forty years later, Michael’s legacy at the JCC is unprecedented. He has donated tens of millions of dollars, rescued the JCC from going out of business and transformed the campus into a beautiful, accessible cornerstone of the community. He invested dollars, time, expertise, his building company’s staff, time and expertise, and incented many others to give as well.

Lynn Wittels, CEO of the JCC from 20052023 describes the situation. “The J was losing $2 million a year. There was lots of competition, a fitness center on every corner, and temples had started competing for programmi ng with the J. We knew that we had to react, to change the J’s brand as well as its financial model and its marketing. It needed to be a place where everyone wanted to be.”

“I hung out at the JCC, but I wasn’t focused on it as a place to engage with,” Michael says, “until about 2003 when Tom Green and I.E. Millstone z'l told me it was my turn. These were the icons in the St. Louis philanthropic Jewish community, and they were asking me –telling me — to step in.” Green and Millstone would become significant mentors for Michael as he refined his giving and learned how to give effectively and impactfully. “My father and Michael were very dear friends and colleagues,” remembers Katherine Green, daughter of St. Louis entrepreneur and philanthropist, Thomas Green. “I think Michael considered my father one of his great mentors, and my father thought very highly of him. My father thought Michael was hard working, very ambitious, capable of making a real impact, which he has. Michael has a big, beautiful heart.”

When the St. Louis Jewish Community

You have made such a big impact on the JCC. Thank you for your time and wisdom to show us the way and for sure for your financial leadership. Amazing, Happy Hanukkah!

Louri Sullivan

Center asked Michael to serve on the board, he realized it was time to make a major commitment of time, expertise, and money. “I went to the first board of directors meeting, and I couldn’t understand the financials,” recalls Michael. “They were going out of business. They had gone through their endowment. They needed to understand what business they were in and hire the right person to do this”

Then-CEO Wittels said, “When I got to the J in 2005, there was already a plan to build what became the Staenberg Family Complex. The board had gone through a strategic plan, and some of the fundraising had begun. Michael had already made a financial commitment which ended up being increased multiple times throughout the process. He became board chair around 2006. He was knee-deep

in the fundraising, planning and construction processes. He willingly and graciously offered his expertise and time, and that depth of commitment helped make the J what it is today

“Without Michael, we probably would not have had the success we had. He brought a lot of other people to the table. Michael made the single largest gift to date. His willingness to invest was a sign to others that it was worthy of their investment. When JCC reopened in 2009, Michael worked out there religiously and other people saw that and joined in.”

The JCC became the inspiration for future work, in terms of what Michael could create through philanthropy and the power of improved facilities to inspire. He quickly moved his attention to other facilities in St. Louis and beyond.

Jewish Federation of St. Louis

Building from the momentum from the renovation and resurgence of the St. Louis Jewish Community Center, Michael turned his attention to the St. Louis Jewish Federation, located across the street from the JCC. “He was specific about needing a vision for Federation,” recalls Andrew Rehfeld, then President and CEO of the Federation. “The physical plant was dated, but he told me I needed to get my feet on the ground before we turned to the building and renovations on a big scale so that I could navigate the needs of the community while making updates.”

Recalls Michael, “I asked: What are our lines of business? Then we came up with a plan to renovate the building. I raised the money for it. The lead gift came from me. The icons saw we

had a real legitimate plan, and they were on board and invested.” Michael has donated over $12 million in cash to Federation, $6 million towards building renovations, art valued at over $150,000 and used his leverage to secure an additional $1 million in donations.

“He doesn’t just talk the talk,” Rehfeld continues. “He invests in the things he cares about. He goes all in and navigates the things that are hard and will invest in the things that the community needs. He gives a huge amount compared to those who have more wealth. He gave me the confidence and support that led to real financial success for Federation. The fact that he was able to back my leadership was huge.”

“I’ve known him for 30 years,” describes Bob

He doesn’t just talk the talk. He invests in the things he cares about. He goes all in and navigates the things that are hard and will

invest in the things that the community needs. He gives a huge amount compared to those who have more wealth. He gave me the confidence and support that led to real financial success for Federation.

The fact that he was able to back my leadership was huge.

Andrew Rehfeld

Millstone, former Federation board president.

“I met him through my grandfather who was a mentor to Michael. Some of his giving was influenced by my grandfather. I consider him to be an extraordinary person. He gives his time and his money. I have a picture in my office of my grandfather and Michael. — The acorn and the oak tree.”

“The Federation building sometimes felt like a fortress,” Millstone contin ues, “And he drove the remodeling to ma ke it feel more welcoming and open, at the same time

enforcing the security that was necessary for the building. He sees the bigger picture in which nonprofits operate. His scope of knowledge is unique, and he is willing to share this with nonprofits and he makes them better because it. He’s an extraordinary person, a good friend to me. He has helped me be better in my own philanthropy and business. Our community would be far worse off without his engagement, energy and commitment.”

Michael is particularly proud of the St. Louis Holocaust Museum that he developed, with investments in the physical structure rebuild, donations of artwork, and significant time and expertise given to the design. Michael’s giving was a huge part of the total $22 million needed for the project.

St. Louis JCC

I.E. Millstone and Michael Staenberg

Omaha Jewish Community Center

When Michael went back for a party in Omaha, he was dismayed at the conditions of the Omaha Jewish Community Center. “I was embarrassed at what I saw. It was dirty. There weren’t many Jewish members. So, I decided to redo the whole campus. I did the work. I sat there and developed it and put the art in.” Michael has donated over $10 million in cash, raised another $40 million towards building renovations, fixed over $19 million of deferred maintenance, and donated $1 million in art.

“I met Michael met in 2017 during our building renovation of the JCC,” recalls Phil Malcom, COO of the Omaha JCC. “For four years, we were locked at the hip. He doesn’t come in for one program and leave. Once he commits to an organization, he’s in it for the long haul. We would speak several times a week to check in on the project. Go over every detail – light

fixtures, colors on carpet, budget, every step — even details on how we were fundraising.”

“What the numbers don’t tell is the expertise and time, “ says Malcom. “He’s committed more than any other donor I’ve ever seen. His work in connecting us to other organizations to show us best practices. The numbers don’t even begin to show how much he gives or how much he cares.

“He’s always pushing us to be better,” describes Bob Goldberg, CEO of the Omaha JCC, “digging into financials and data points to help us make sound decisions. Michael only knows one speed. It’s a faster speed than you go. He will push you to go faster than you think you can go. He prioritizes Jewish causes, which is also unique. His giving will create ripple effects throughout generations. If you go along with him, you will achieve more than you ever thought you could.”

What the numbers don’t tell is the expertise and time. He’s committed more than any other donor I’ve ever seen. His work in connecting us to other organizations to show us best practices. The numbers don’t even begin to show how much he gives or how much he cares.

Phil Malcolm

Omaha JCC

Denver Jewish Community Center

Michael has also been heavily committed to the Denver Jewish community, donating over $20 million to programming and facilities upgrades as well as artwork to the Federation, Jewish community centers, camps, and other local Jewish organizations.

Renée Rockford, CEO and President of JEWISHColorado, met Michael when she was interim CEO. She recounts Michael’s generosity in both dollars and time, and he

never forgets the staff who works hard to make it all happen. “As with every Jewish organization, our team was working in a continual state of emergency after Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Michael insisted that we take the entire staff out for a nice lunch so that they knew that he personally appreciated their efforts. It’s unusual for a donor at this level to show this level of concern for the everyday work of our people and organization. His superpower is that he never forgets where he started.”

Artwork at JEWISHcolorado in Denver that is among the more than 90 pieces donated by Michael Staenberg to Denver’s Federation.

Hiddur Mitzvah

There is yet another Jewish teaching that guides Michael Staenberg, and that is Jewish tradition of Hiddur Mitzvah, meaning “beautifying the commandment.” It encourages making Jewish practices, celebrations, and spaces more beautiful and meaningful through engagement and artistry. Michael believes in adding art to all the places he builds. He has chosen and donated 1,325 pieces of original artwork valued at more than $3 Million to nonprofit and community spaces.

“Art makes a statement,” Michael says. “It evokes emotion and takes a place that has

four walls and makes if feel good. Whether it’s for schools, camps, senior centers, or Jewish organizations, I pick every piece of art. I want diversity in the art and want the art to match the audience. Crown Center Senior Living is different than Kol Rinah Early Childhood Center. You have to think about the audience when selecting a work of art.”

“He bought local, Jewish art that creates beauty and thought-provoking conversation” says Phil Malcom, COO the Omaha JCC, describing the artwork that Michael chose and then donated to the renovated Omaha JCC. “We now have a space that people

He bought local, Jewish art that creates beauty and thought-provoking conversation. We now have a space that people want to be in. They are inspired. The space is warm, and the environment draws people in and engages them.

Phil Malcolm

want to be in. They are inspired. The space is warm, and the environment draws people in and engages them.” “Evidence of the value of artwork is already seen in the District,” says Bob Nation, Mayor of Chesterfield. “It adds class, uniqueness, and value. I love seeing the artwork near the Factory. We are grateful for what he brings to our city.”

“I think art has an important place in society and in economic development, Michael says.

Art is a subtle thing. The people coming to a shopping center or visiting a community notice the little things,” he said. Michael has supported many cultural organizations over the years including the Saint Louis Art Museum, Craft Alliance, Jazz St. Louis and the Sheldon Arts Foundation. He also supports community experience of artistic institutions. He has given away thousands of tickets to shows over the years for people who would not otherwise experience live performances.

The pandemic has given me time to ponder and an unusual experience connected me to explore the difference between thankfulness and gratitude.

I now feel that thankfulness comes from the heart but gratitude comes from the soul. As I started thinking about Gratitude beyond my family, good health, vaccines, and passions that give me energy and excitement, your name came into my mind. I thought about all the creative ideas and concepts that you poured into the development of the JCC. It is so much more than a building. It is an embrace that comes to life and imprints people in an amazing way. It had to come from your soul.

SuEllen Fried

The Center of Creative Arts

In the early 1987, Michael attended a gallery opening at the Center of Creative Arts (COCA), a St. Louis community children’s arts center, and became interested in helping the center thrive and grow. He saw the potential and decided to begin fixing the existing building, a former synagogue built in the 1950s, and eventually helped spearhead an addition. The expansion allowed the arts center to enhance and add programs.

“COCA offers kids something different than sports,” says Michael. “There’s nothing like it in St. Louis. It is a place that allows kids the chance to be who they want to be.”

Stephanie Riven describes Michael’s impact on COCA. “Michael and I met when I was

the founding executive director, and he was interested in the arts and in COCA’s potential. Michael saw the unique qualities that COCA brought to the community. He attended many events, enjoyed meeting great artists, and was always extremely generous with his funds, his time, and his sense of fun. He was all about the impact that could be achieved. During those years, the team at COCA built the institution to be the fourth largest community arts center in the country. He played a big role in achieving that milestone.” Michael’s involvement at COCA did not end with the first project, but he became involved again when it was time to build an addition. “I don’t just leave organizations,” he says.

A Legacy of Giving

Imet Michael at dinner through a mutual friend who was being honored,” says Rabbi Shlomo Soroka. “He right away agreed to give my organization $1,800. A week later, I stopped by his office to say thank you and offered to study Torah with him for four minutes a week. That grew into eight years of studying together and the creation of a column called ‘Minutes with Mike.’ I still look to him for advice, even though I am no longer in St. Louis. He is the oak tree who has produced thousands of acorns who are giving. This is his legacy. He is fiercely proud of his Jewish identity and the organizations that support Jewish people. You may not agree with all his opinions, but it’s a relationship that benefits anyone in his orbit.”

Michael Staenberg’s zest for life, for business, and for philanthropy is relentless. His energy, tenacity, demand for excellence, and business acumen have created a real estate

and philanthropic portfolio that will exist for generations. All told, he has donated over $181 million in cash and another $670 million in building improvements, property donations, art donations, leveraged gifts, inkind donations, and deferred maintenance to total more than $850 million.* Michael says a lot of his business success comes from the many people he has met through his charitable work. He continues to push himself and those around him to help more people, create more beauty and bring about more impact.

He says all he needs back is a simple “thank you.”

“I don’t like gifts,” he says. “A ‘thank you’ is all I need. I think I am addicted to hearing it.”

The fact that someone will say thank you is meaningful.” And Michael says he will keep on giving. “I promised one of my mentors that I would live to the age of 101.” He adds, “Don’t stop when you’re tired. “Stop when you’re done.”

[Michael] is the oak tree who has produced thousands of acorns who are giving. This is his legacy. He is fiercely proud of his Jewish identity and the organizations that support Jewish people. You may not agree with all his opinions, but it’s a relationship that benefits anyone in his orbit.”

Rabbi Shlomo Soroka

Action This Day

By Diane Kline | Michael Staenberg Birthday Poem | April 8, 2025

When Churchill led England during World War Two, he knew hesitation could lead to doom

But faced with such bureaucratic bloat, he decided to respond with a simple note When he issued an order to be done right away he affixed a red label: “Action This Day”

Such men with purpose –focused and strong –win again and again and bring others along

With endless energy and endless plans,

Michael Staenberg is just such a man

A visionary who is leading the way, Michael always takes action this very day

His thoughts are decisive, his goals are quite clear, transforming cities and lives every year

He sets the bar high demanding the best, always hard on himself before he can rest

But rest never comes and that’s our debt to pay because Michael is taking action this day