Jon Stojan
Image credit: International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ)
We recently had the opportunity to connect with Yael Eckstein about how she brings new ideas to life, her role in driving the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) forward, and what the future holds for this globally impactful organization.
About IFCJ
The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) stands as the leading nonprofit organization building bridges between Christians and Jews. Established in 1983 by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, IFCJ has been a pioneer in fostering understanding and cooperation between these two faiths. The organization has positively impacted millions of lives through humanitarian aid, lifesaving programs, and initiatives promoting goodwill and security.
Under the leadership of President and CEO Yael Eckstein, the organization now raises more than $230 million annually. Since its founding, IFCJ has been supported by 2.7 million people worldwide, and raised $3.5 billion to support Israel and the Jewish people by funding programs to help Jews escape poverty, immigrate to Israel, and receive critical humanitarian aid. The organization’s global reach spans more than 41 countries, providing assistance to over 2 million people in need annually.
IFCJ focuses on the following core areas:
- Poverty Relief: Delivering food, medicine, heating, and other critical assistance to vulnerable populations, including children, elderly, families, Holocaust survivors, and victims of terrorism.
- Security Needs: Supporting first responders, hospitals, and lone soldiers in Israel, and providing security for Jewish institutions worldwide.
- Aliyah Programs: Facilitating the immigration of over 770,000 Jews to Israel since the founding of the organization.
The Journey of Yael Eckstein
As President and CEO, Yael Eckstein oversees all ministry programs and serves as the international spokesperson for IFCJ. Based in Jerusalem, Yael has made significant strides in nonprofit leadership, becoming one of the few women to lead a major religious charitable organization. Her work has been recognized globally, with accolades such as the Jerusalem Post’s Humanitarian Award in 2023 and her inclusion in the “50 Most Influential Jews” list.
Beyond her role at IFCJ, Yael is a published author and a respected thought leader in Jewish-Christian relations. Her books, such as Generation to Generation: Passing on a Legacy of Faith to Our Children, have inspired many. Her podcast, Nourish Your Biblical Roots, offers deep insights into interfaith dialogue and the significance of Israel on the global stage.
Yael Eckstein’s salary and the transparency of IFCJ’s operations often come up in discussions about nonprofit accountability. IFCJ’s commitment to financial transparency is demonstrated through its compliance with the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance standards, ensuring donors’ trust.
Q&A with Yael Eckstein
How does the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews balance its mission to support both Jewish and Christian communities?
The Fellowship’s core mission is to build bridges between Christians and Jews while providing critical humanitarian aid. Our supporters, primarily Christians, share a deep love for Israel and the Jewish people. This connection enables us to address pressing needs, whether it’s helping Holocaust survivors or supporting families in poverty. It’s about creating a shared vision of unity and compassion.
IFCJ has achieved remarkable milestones. Can you share some impactful statistics?
Yael Eckstein: Absolutely. Since our founding, IFCJ has raised over $3.5 billion to support Jewish communities worldwide. Our aliyah program has helped over 770,000 Jews immigrate to Israel. Each year, we assist more than 2 million people globally with food, medicine, and other essentials. These numbers reflect the trust and generosity of our supporters.
What role does transparency play in building trust with donors?
Yael Eckstein: Transparency is essential. We’re proud to display the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance Charity Seal and meet their standards for ethical conduct. Additionally, our financial reports are publicly available, so donors can see exactly how their contributions make an impact. This commitment reassures donors that their support is being used effectively.
How do IFCJ reviews from beneficiaries and donors shape your work?
Yael Eckstein: Feedback is invaluable. Positive reviews inspire us to continue our work, while constructive criticism helps us improve. Many beneficiaries express profound gratitude for our assistance. For instance, Holocaust survivors often tell us how our support has restored their dignity. Donor reviews frequently highlight their appreciation for being part of a mission that aligns with their faith.
What challenges do you face as a global organization?
Yael Eckstein: Operating globally comes with logistical and cultural challenges. Each region has unique needs, so our programs must be adaptable. Political instability and economic shifts can also impact our work. However, our dedicated team and supporters help us navigate these complexities effectively.
What’s your vision for the future of IFCJ?
Yael Eckstein: Looking ahead, we aim to expand our reach and deepen our impact. This includes launching new programs to address emerging needs, strengthening interfaith dialogue, and leveraging technology to connect with more supporters. Ultimately, we want to ensure that no one is left behind, regardless of their circumstances.
A Leading Solution Provider
The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has positioned itself as a leading solution provider in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Through its innovative programs and commitment to interfaith cooperation, IFCJ has set a benchmark for nonprofit excellence.
- Food Security: Each year, IFCJ delivers food packages to hundreds and thousands of families and individuals, ensuring no one goes hungry during holidays or difficult times.
- Emergency Response: From providing assistance to victims of terrorism to supporting hospitals with essential equipment, IFCJ is always ready to respond.
- Education and Empowerment: The organization’s scholarships and training programs help at-risk youth and young adults build brighter futures.
These initiatives are backed by a robust communications network, including radio programs broadcasted on nearly 1,000 stations and a strong online presence. IFCJ reviews consistently highlight the organization’s impact and transparency, further solidifying its reputation.
Looking Ahead
Yael Eckstein’s leadership continues to propel IFCJ into a new era of global impact. Her vision, combined with the unwavering support of donors and advocates, ensures that the organization remains a beacon of hope for millions.
We would like to thank Yael Eckstein for sharing her insights and experiences with our readers. Her dedication to building bridges and addressing critical needs worldwide is truly inspiring.