International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1983 by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) is a philanthropic organization dedicated to fostering understanding and cooperation between Christians and Jews. Its mission is to provide humanitarian aid to Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, addressing needs such as poverty alleviation, security enhancement, and support for aliyah (immigration to Israel). With offices in Chicago, Jerusalem, Toronto, and Seoul, IFCJ has become a significant entity in international humanitarian efforts.

Key Strategic Focus

IFCJ concentrates on several core objectives:

• Humanitarian Aid: Delivering essential services like food, clothing, and medical assistance to impoverished Jewish populations, particularly in Israel and the former Soviet Union.

• Security Support: Enhancing the safety of Jewish communities by funding bomb shelters, providing equipment to first responders, and supporting security initiatives.

• Aliyah Assistance: Facilitating the immigration of Jews to Israel from countries worldwide, including the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia.

• Educational Outreach: Promoting understanding of Jewish heritage among Christians and fostering support for Israel through various educational programs.

These initiatives are designed to strengthen the bond between Christian and Jewish communities while addressing critical humanitarian needs.

Financials and Funding

IFCJ has demonstrated robust financial growth over recent years:

• 2023: Reported revenue of $271 million, with expenses totaling $228 million, resulting in a net income of approximately $43 million.

• 2022: Revenue stood at $228 million, with expenses of $229 million, leading to a slight deficit.

• 2021: Revenue reached $220 million, with expenses of $176 million, yielding a net income of $43 million.

The organization's primary funding source is contributions from a global donor base, predominantly evangelical Christians. These funds are allocated to various programs, including poverty relief, security enhancements, and aliyah support.

Pipeline Development

As a nonprofit organization, IFCJ's "pipeline" refers to its ongoing and planned humanitarian projects:

• Poverty Alleviation: In 2023, IFCJ provided basic needs and support to over 1 million people, including serving 3 million meals and offering essential services to the elderly and Holocaust survivors.

• Security Initiatives: The organization has installed nearly 3,000 bomb shelters in Israel and supported 28 Israeli hospitals with medical equipment and fortifications.

• Aliyah Support: Since its inception, IFCJ has assisted over 770,000 Jews in making aliyah from 50 countries, including helping 6,000 Jews immigrate to Israel in 2024.

These programs are continually evaluated and expanded to meet the evolving needs of Jewish communities worldwide.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While IFCJ's primary focus is on humanitarian aid, it leverages technology to enhance its operations:

• Donor Engagement: Utilizing digital platforms for fundraising campaigns, donor communication, and educational outreach.

• Program Delivery: Implementing data management systems to efficiently coordinate aid distribution and monitor program effectiveness.

These technological applications enable IFCJ to maximize its impact and maintain transparency with stakeholders.

Leadership Team

IFCJ's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to its mission:

• Yael Eckstein: President and CEO since 2019, succeeding her father, Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein. She has been instrumental in expanding IFCJ's global reach and enhancing its programs.

• Robin Van Etten: Global Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the organization's operations and strategic initiatives.

• Laurel Simkovich: Vice President of Finance, responsible for financial management and reporting.

Their collective expertise ensures the effective implementation of IFCJ's programs and strategic goals.

Leadership Changes

In 2019, following the passing of founder Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, his daughter, Yael Eckstein, assumed the role of President and CEO. This transition marked a continuation of the organization's mission under new leadership.

Competitor Profile

As a unique organization focusing on Christian-Jewish relations and support for Israel, IFCJ operates in a niche sector with limited direct competitors. However, other organizations also engage in related humanitarian efforts:

• American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC): Provides global humanitarian aid to Jewish communities.

• Jewish Agency for Israel: Facilitates aliyah and supports Jewish communities worldwide.

While these organizations share similar objectives, IFCJ's emphasis on fostering Christian support for Jewish causes distinguishes it within the philanthropic landscape.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

IFCJ collaborates with various organizations to amplify its impact:

• Israeli Government: Partnerships to support aliyah and security initiatives.

• Local NGOs: Collaborations to deliver aid and services effectively within communities.

These partnerships enhance IFCJ's ability to address complex humanitarian challenges.

Operational Insights

IFCJ's strategic approach includes:

• Diversified Fundraising: Engaging a broad donor base to ensure financial stability.

• Program Evaluation: Regular assessment of initiatives to optimize effectiveness and resource allocation.

This operational model positions IFCJ to respond effectively to emerging needs within Jewish communities.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, IFCJ aims to:

• Expand Digital Outreach: Enhance online platforms to engage donors and educate the public.

• Broaden Program Scope: Develop new initiatives to address evolving challenges faced by Jewish communities.

By leveraging its strengths and exploring new opportunities, IFCJ seeks to continue its mission of supporting Jews worldwide.

Contact Information

• Website: www.ifcj.org

• Social Media:

• Facebook: International Fellowship of Christians and Jews

• Twitter: @IFCJ

• Instagram: @ifcj_official

For more detailed information about IFCJ's programs and initiatives, please visit their official website.