Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Foundation
Background
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Foundation (ABMF), established in 2012 in New York City, is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to preserving the authenticity of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camp sites. The Foundation's mission is to safeguard the memory of Auschwitz-Birkenau by preserving its original artifacts and educating future generations about its history.
Key Strategic Focus
ABMF focuses on:
- Preservation Efforts: Supporting the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in conserving the physical remnants of the camps, including buildings, ruins, artifacts, and documents.
- Educational Initiatives: Launching programs like the Auschwitz Legacy Fellowship, which brings American high school teachers to Auschwitz to enhance Holocaust education in the U.S.
- Survivor Outreach: Engaging with Holocaust survivors through online reunions, birthday acknowledgments, and publications like "Honey Cake and Latkes: Recipes from the Old World by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Survivors."
Financials and Funding
ABMF's financial highlights include:
- Revenue and Expenses: In 2023, the Foundation reported revenues of $1.3 million and expenses of $1.48 million, resulting in a net loss of $173,171.
- Assets and Liabilities: As of 2023, total assets stood at $1.53 million, with liabilities of $247,000, leading to net assets of $1.29 million.
- Funding Sources: The Foundation's income primarily comes from contributions, accounting for 95.6% of total revenue in 2023.
Leadership Team
- Ronald S. Lauder: Chairman of the Board. A prominent philanthropist and former U.S. Ambassador to Austria, Lauder has been instrumental in Holocaust remembrance initiatives.
- Maria Zalewska: Executive Director. Zalewska has led the Foundation since its inception, overseeing strategic initiatives and operations.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The Holocaust education and preservation sector involves various organizations dedicated to memorializing the Holocaust and educating the public. This field is characterized by collaborative efforts to maintain historical sites and promote awareness.
Competitor Analysis
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation: Established in 2009 in Warsaw, Poland, this foundation manages an endowment fund to finance the long-term preservation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Site.
- United States Holocaust Memorial Council: Based in Washington, D.C., this organization oversees the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, focusing on education, documentation, and research related to the Holocaust.
- Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Inc: Located in New York, this foundation supports the Auschwitz Jewish Center in Oświęcim, Poland, aiming to preserve Jewish heritage and educate about the Holocaust.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
ABMF collaborates with:
- Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum: Providing financial and strategic support for preservation projects.
- International Governments and Donors: Engaging with entities worldwide to secure funding and support for its initiatives.
Operational Insights
ABMF's strategic considerations include:
- Preservation Funding: Raising funds to support the conservation of Auschwitz-Birkenau's physical remnants.
- Educational Outreach: Developing programs to educate future generations about the Holocaust.
- Survivor Engagement: Maintaining connections with Holocaust survivors to honor their experiences and contributions.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
ABMF aims to:
- Expand Educational Programs: Increase the reach and impact of initiatives like the Auschwitz Legacy Fellowship.
- Enhance Digital Engagement: Develop online platforms to provide virtual tours and educational resources.
- Strengthen Global Partnerships: Collaborate with international organizations to promote Holocaust education and remembrance.
Contact Information
- Website: www.preserveauschwitz.org
- Social Media:
Note: The above contact information is based on available data as of July 1, 2025.
