Wednesday, 08 Feb 2012
 
 
American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) Print

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American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), the largest international Jewish humanitarian assistance organization in the world. Established in 1914 by an ad hoc coalition of North American Jewish groups to channel funds to starving Jews in Palestine and Europe during World War I, JDC has played a critical, often life-saving role in most important events in 20th century and 21st century Jewish history. Today, JDC is a constant in the lives of the world’s poorest Jews, providing life-sustaining aid while helping new and older generations connect with their Jewish heritage. And with decades of relief and development experience behind the organization, JDC effectively provides non-sectarian assistance to non-Jews worldwide who are victims of natural and man-made disasters.

JDC is proud to celebrate 95 years as a trusted partner that propels vulnerable Jewish and non-Jewish communities from dependent to self-sustaining.

 

Vision, Mission, Principles of Operation

Vision
From JDC’s perspective, the future vision for Jews across the world consists of:

  • Jewish communities that are ever stronger and that are independently capable of recognizing and responding to their own needs, capable of creating and offering opportunities for Jewish life, and capable of ensuring the well-being of all Jews. Strong community infrastructure will ensure they are prepared to respond to all scenarios.
  • A vibrant Israel that is understanding of and able to respond to the material and social challenges of its most vulnerable populations, so that all citizens are included and empowered
  • An ever deeper and stronger connection between Jewish communities everywhere

Mission
JDC is the overseas arm of the American Jewish community, focused on its 3Rs and I mission:

  • Rescue of Jews at risk
  • Relief for Jews in need
  • Renewal of Jewish community life
  • Israel: Partnerships with public organizations to improve the lives of the most vulnerable members of society

Principles of Operation
JDC operates on the following principles:

  • Choice: Respectful of the decisions of Jews to live wherever they choose, while acknowledging the unique opportunity for Jewish life in Israel
  • Non-Political, Non-Denominational: Nonidentification with partisan positions
  • Pluralistic: Respectful of diverse Jewish beliefs and viewpoints
  • Lay-Professional Partnership: Strong alliance between lay leaders and professionals, recognizing the distinct and mutually strengthening roles of each
  • Community Self-Sufficiency: Striving to strengthen local community leadership and infrastructure so as to foster independence
  • Professional Excellence: Engaging and developing professionals at the highest levels