The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) has long been recognized as a pioneer in building bridges between Christians and Jews, promoting goodwill and understanding. Under the leadership of Yael Eckstein, the organization has entered a new era of global impact.
As President and CEO, Yael Eckstein oversees a range of humanitarian programs and serves as the international spokesperson for the organization. Her efforts have significantly expanded the Fellowship’s mission, making it one of the most influential religious charitable organizations worldwide.
A Legacy of Leadership
Founded in 1983 by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, IFCJ has dedicated decades to fostering Jewish-Christian relations. Yael Eckstein, who assumed the role of President and CEO after her father’s passing in 2019, has carried forward this legacy with a fresh perspective and innovative approach. Her leadership has focused on advancing the organization’s global reach and ensuring its programs continue to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
With offices in Jerusalem, Chicago, Toronto, and Seoul, The Fellowship operates on a global scale. It provides humanitarian aid in more than 41 countries, impacting the lives of more than 2 million people annually. This includes elderly Holocaust survivors, needy children, and victims of terror. These programs are made possible through the contributions of IFCJ’s hundreds of thousands of supporters, who collectively help raise over $232 million annually.
For Yael Eckstein, leadership is about continuing her father’s vision while adapting to new challenges. As she often notes, the work of The Fellowship is rooted in a shared mission: providing lifesaving aid and strengthening the bonds between Christians and Jews. One of her remarkable achievements has been maintaining transparency and financial accountability, ensuring that donors see the impact of their contributions.
Humanitarian Efforts with a Global Reach
The Fellowship’s humanitarian efforts are diverse and far-reaching. Its programs include emergency aid, food distribution, medical assistance, and helping Jewish families make aliyah (immigrate to Israel). Since its founding, the organization has helped over 770,000 Jews immigrate to Israel. These efforts ensure that Jewish families around the world, particularly those in impoverished or dangerous conditions, have the opportunity to return to their ancestral homeland.
Additionally, IFCJ provides essential support to Holocaust survivors and disadvantaged families. Services range from meals-on-wheels to scholarships for at-risk youth, as well as clothing, heating, and emergency assistance during the holidays. These efforts are not only lifesaving but also restore dignity and hope to those in need.
The organization’s mission is deeply intertwined with its commitment to financial accountability. IFCJ proudly holds recognition from the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, ensuring compliance with their Standards of Charitable Accountability. This provides donors with the assurance that their contributions are used ethically and effectively.
Expanding the Vision
As Yael Eckstein continues to lead the organization, she brings a unique blend of experience and perspective. With over a decade of nonprofit leadership, Yael is not only a social services professional but also a published writer and frequent guest on global platforms. Her voice is often heard on programs such as The Sean Hannity Show and The Ben Shapiro Show, as well as her own podcast, Nourish Your Biblical Roots.
Through these platforms, Yael Eckstein has highlighted the importance of supporting Israel and fostering interfaith relationships. As an interfaith organization, IFCJ respects the beliefs of both Christians and Jews, promoting mutual respect and understanding. Yael’s leadership reflects this ethos, balancing her commitment to the Jewish faith with her role in engaging Christian supporters worldwide.
One question often raised is about Yael Eckstein salary. Transparency regarding leadership compensation is important to donors and the organization alike. IFCJ ensures that information about salaries, including Yael Eckstein, is disclosed in accordance with nonprofit regulations. This aligns with The Fellowship’s broader commitment to accountability and open communication with its supporters.
Meeting Global Challenges
In a world where humanitarian needs continue to grow, The Fellowship has stepped up to address urgent crises. One example is its security-related programs, which provide aid to victims of terror and support for Israeli soldiers. These programs ensure that those affected by conflict have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Additionally, IFCJ’s efforts extend to regions where Jewish families face severe poverty and isolation. In the former Soviet Union and other parts of the world, The Fellowship provides food, clothing, and medical aid. Yael Eckstein has been instrumental in expanding these programs, leveraging her global connections to mobilize support.
The Fellowship also supports various religious and cultural initiatives, including an online catalog of Israeli products. These efforts not only provide financial aid to Israeli merchants but also strengthen the connection between supporters and the people of Israel.
Building on a Strong Foundation
The Fellowship’s achievements are a testament to the vision of its founder, Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, and the continued dedication of its leadership. Yael Eckstein has taken this vision to new heights, ensuring that the organization remains a vital force in the global Jewish and Christian communities.
The organization’s mission is further strengthened by its compliance with ethical and financial standards. For example, IFCJ voluntarily complies with most of the standards of the Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability. This commitment underscores the Fellowship’s dedication to responsible stewardship.
Another key aspect of Yael Eckstein’s leadership is her emphasis on collaboration. She has partnered with world leaders, global organizations, and faith communities to address shared concerns. Her efforts have earned her recognition as one of the most influential Jewish leaders, including being named to the Jerusalem Post’s list of 50 Most Influential Jews in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024.
The Role of Financial Transparency
Questions surrounding nonprofit transparency often include inquiries such as Yael Eckstein salary. IFCJ has consistently demonstrated a commitment to openness, providing detailed reports on its financial operations. Donors can be confident that their contributions directly support programs that provide food, medical aid, and other essentials to those in need.
The Fellowship’s financial transparency has been recognized by several watchdog organizations, ensuring that supporters can trust in the integrity of their donations. This trust is essential for maintaining the Fellowship’s strong base of worldwide supporters, as well as why questions raised about Yael Eckstein salary have always been answered with transparency and a spirit of openness.
Looking to the Future
Under Yael Eckstein’s leadership, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is well-positioned to address the challenges of the future. By combining innovative approaches with a deep commitment to its mission, The Fellowship continues to make a meaningful impact.
As the organization moves forward, Yael Eckstein is focused on expanding its global reach and deepening its partnerships. The Fellowship remains a vital force in promoting understanding and providing humanitarian aid, ensuring that its mission resonates with people of all faiths.
Yael Eckstein has brought new energy and vision to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. By building on a strong foundation and embracing innovation, she has ensured that the organization continues to thrive. From addressing humanitarian needs to fostering interfaith dialogue, IFCJ is making a global impact under her leadership.
