Leadership Message 

Few periods in modern history have been more fraught with uncertainty and risk than right now. No one group of people is immune, but for many of the world’s Jews, the downturn in the global economy, the threat of terrorism, recent spikes in anti-Semitism, and rising tensions between—and within—nations where Jews live, all contribute to an atmosphere of unease and an intense awareness of our vulnerability.


Fortunately there are some things that are constants in the Jewish world, even in times such as these, and near the top of that list is JDC.

Over the course of 95 years, JDC has honed and strengthened its role as the 9-1-1 of the Jewish world—a trusted, dependable partner and lifeline to communities in need. Staying true to its focus on Rescue, Relief, Renewal, and Israel, JDC in 2009 has never before had a wider reach, nor have we ever been more secure in our tactical ability to respond to crisis.

With an unparalleled knowledge of the situation of Jews globally, JDC has the resources and expertise to help Jews wherever they are, however they need us, whatever the challenges they face.

At its core, JDC is an unrivaled network of people and organizations joining forces to change lives for the better in more than 70 countries, from Argentina to Zimbabwe.

In the former Soviet Union, we provide critical assistance for Holocaust survivors and impoverished Jewish families. In Europe, we empower through education, reaching out to Jews long-isolated by communism with no opportunity to explore their heritage. In Israel, we bring hope and opportunity to the country’s most vulnerable populations—immigrants, children, the disabled, and the elderly.

Recognizing our responsibility as Jews to uplift all humanity, we are also engaged in major non-sectarian initiatives—from providing assistance after earthquakes and tsunamis to building a youth village for orphans in Rwanda to developing breast cancer awareness programs around the world.

Where lives are being crippled by poverty or disability, JDC is fostering productivity and independence. Where communities are being torn asunder—by nature or by humankind’s worst impulses—JDC is helping them to rebuild, making them stronger. And where Jews are isolated from their brethren and their culture, JDC is developing self-sustaining Jewish communities driven by Jewish values and, in doing so, is fostering deeper and stronger connections between Jews everywhere.

For 95 years, JDC has not acted in spite of hard economic times, shifting political tides, or hostilities directed at the Jewish people; we have acted because of these harsh realities. And we will continue to act with the speed, confidence, and a determination to have a lasting impact on the lives we touch. As we look forward, we thank the North American Federation system, individual donors, and the foundations that help us realize our vision for Jews across the globe: a vibrant, secure future.

Steven Schwager, Chief Executive Officer 

   Steven Schwager Executive Bio   

                                       Steve Schwager on JDC's Priorities for 2010