Home Who We Are
One individual is handing a can to the other, and there are boxes on a table that suggest some sort of food distribution or collection event.
A group of individuals walking off of an El Al plane waving Israeli flags.

Who We Are

JUF powers Jewish Chicago—because people like you power JUF.

As one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the country, JUF is committed to eradicating hunger, isolation and inequities for Chicagoans of all faiths and for people around the world. We are staunchly committed to fighting antisemitism and hate in all forms.

Rooted in a belief in the extraordinary strength of collective action, our community’s generosity helps JUF power the day-to-day operations of local Jewish programs, facilities and agencies—and fuels our unique ability to respond in times of crisis.

A Foundation of Strength Our Community Relies On

Inspired by Jewish values, we are a welcoming and inclusive community, with diverse opportunities to engage in Jewish life from baby to Bubbe. 

JUF provides life-saving services and life-enriching experiences where they are needed most. We take great pride in this, and in our unique ability to help people—to provide essential health and human services and vital points of community and connection.

An adult holding a bagel with cream cheese in one hand and a baby in the other arm.
'Invest in the Jewish community' leads to 'Amplify resources through grants, investments and endowments' leads to 'allocate resources where and when the community needs them most' leads to 'impact goes 3x further' leads to 'fuel a thriving Jewish community' which goes back to the beginning.

Our 120 years of well-managed philanthropic dollars is the result of intensive planning and fiscal responsibility, ensuring long-term financial stability and enabling a continuous stream of funding where the overall community needs it. And, with combined fundraising expenses of less than 5% of total income, supporting JUF allows our community to guide and direct our destiny, building the foundation for a thriving Jewish future.

Together for Good

GuideStar Platinum Transparency 2021

GuideStar

JUF is proud to have a platinum GuideStar rating. GuideStar is the preeminent nonprofit resource, connecting donors to essential, transparent information about the operations and impact of mission-driven organizations.

Charity navigator four star 2025 badge

Charity Navigator

JUF’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency is recognized with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.

One fund. So much impact.

Your donation today makes a world of difference for Chicagoans in need, in the fight against rampant antisemitism here and across the globe and to ensure everyone in our community can safely participate in Jewish life.