When Judd Zebersky co-founded Jazwares in 1997, he started with a factory visit in China and a determination to build something real in the toy industry. What emerged over the next three decades was a company recognized worldwide for Squishmallows and for a giving program that grew alongside every stage of the business.
Jazwares Cares, the philanthropic arm Jude Zebersky established early in the company’s history, now runs donation programs, school partnerships, and employee volunteer initiatives in multiple countries. The structure reflects a deliberate choice to treat community investment the same way the company treats product development with focus, consistency, and dedicated resources.
Naming Rights and Hospital Expansion
Judd Zebersky’s most visible charitable commitments have centered on children’s healthcare. He and Laura Zebersky donated $2 million to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, contributing to a construction campaign that expanded the facility from four to eight floors. The hospital recognized the gift by naming two units after the family: the Pediatric Emergency Department Registration Area and the Outpatient Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit.
The couple’s relationship with the hospital extended to product development. They collaborated on a custom Lotsy Dotsy doll, modeled after the hospital’s resident clown, to give children during their stays. The doll was created specifically to ease the anxiety of hospitalization.
Squishmallows Designed for Sick Children
Make-A-Wish Southern Florida became another central focus. Laura Zebersky chaired the board starting in 2022 after three years of service, and together the couple funded more than 100 wishes. Jazwares developed Star, a Squishmallow made specifically for children with serious illnesses, and distributed more than 10,000 units to Make-A-Wish chapters across the United States and Canada. The InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball, where the Jude Zebersky served as benefactors, raised over $5 million. Judd Zebersky left the CEO position in March 2026, with those programs still operating. Visit this page for related information.
Find more information about Judd Zebersky on https://toybook.com/jazwares-leadership-transition/