Jewish Defense Fund

Jewish Defense Fund

Jewish Defense Fund is a nonprofit dedicated to Jewish security, continuity, and resilience through grantmaking and direct action.

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The Jewish Defense Fund (JDF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2022 and headquartered in New York City. JDF is dedicated to the long-term security and continuity of the Jewish community through three pillars: strategic grantmaking, direct action programs, and a permanent endowment.

JDF's programs include free and subsidized self-defense training for Jewish individuals and communities (Personal Defense Program), campus security initiatives at colleges and universities, community security enhancements, media accountability work to counter Antisemitic misinformation, legal advocacy, and mission-consistent special projects.

JDF also operates JDF Giving Funds — donor-directed philanthropic accounts program that allows individuals, families, and organizations to allocate and deploy charitable dollars toward Jewish security and continuity causes over time.

Antisemitic incidents in the United States reached a record high in 2024 — 9,354 documented incidents, a 344% increase over five years (ADL Audit of Antisemitic Incidents 2024). Nearly 70% of religion-based hate crimes in America target Jews. JDF was built for this moment.

Visit jewishdefensefund.org to donate, volunteer, or open a Giving Fund.

New York, NY
jewishdefensefund.org
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 88-0703290

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Feed fundraiser card link to Help Protect Jewish Communities and Students on Campus
Jewish Defense Fund
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Help Protect Jewish Communities and Students on Campus

Jewish Defense Fund (JDF) – Executive Summary The Jewish Defense Fund (JDF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to securing the long-term safety, empowerment, and resilience of the Jewish community. JDF achieves its mission through strategic grantmaking, direct action programs, and a sustainable endowment, combating Antisemitism and associated modern threats. Mission Statement To protect and strengthen Jewish communities worldwide by funding and implementing security initiatives, advocacy efforts, and self-defense programs, ensuring a resilient future. Core Focus Areas Strategic Grantmaking Identifying and funding high-impact external projects and mission-aligned organizations. Ensuring designated gifts are applied effectively, while unrestricted funds address critical needs. Mission-Aligned Initiatives Supporting communities and institutions with critical security resources. Enhancing community security through direct measures and expanding the Personal Defense Program (PDP) for self-defense training.  Combating Antisemitism through programs such as media accountability, education, legal action, and grassroots advocacy.  Funding other mission-consistent initiatives that address modern challenges and opportunities for Jewish empowerment.  Sustainable Endowment Managing a long-term endowment to secure JDF’s financial future. Investing for growth while making controlled distributions to sustain programs and strategic initiatives. Why Give to JDF? ✔ Strategic Vision – Balancing immediate action with sustainable long-term planning. ✔ High Impact – Funding measurable, mission-critical programs. ✔ Transparency – Clear financial oversight. ✔ Proven Leadership – Expertly guiding security and advocacy efforts. Partnering with JDF ensures effective, scalable, and lasting solutions to safeguard Jewish communities worldwide.
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