The JDC International Development Program (JDC-IDP)
Approach to Non-Sectarian Projects 

JDC’s non-sectarian projects, known as the JDC–International Development Program (JDC-IDP), embody the Jewish moral principle of tikkun olam, the responsibility to help repair the world. Working in partnership with international aid agencies, with local governmental and nongovernmental organizations, and with local Jewish communities, JDC-IDP’s development and relief projects assist distressed communities around the world within a Jewish framework.

Since its inception in 1986, JDC-IDP has worked in more than 60 countries, offering humanitarian, non-sectarian aid to those who have suffered from natural and man-made disasters such as earthquakes, famine, extreme poverty, political instability, and war.

JDC’s non-sectarian disaster relief efforts demonstrate the caring and concern of American and world Jewry for those in desperate need following natural or man-made crises overseas. JDC mobilizes immediately to provide support during the emergency phase and also reserves some funds to assist in the long-term recovery process, with a focus on producing sustainable benefits for individuals, communities, and whole societies affected by a crisis.

Each project fulfills one or more of the following goals:

• To provide relief from natural or man-made disasters, demonstrating the long tradition of Jewish humanitarian assistance to Jews and non-Jews
• To introduce long-term development programs in countries where urgent needs exist
• To support peaceful coexistence through projects in the areas of health and rehabilitation
• To strengthen the presence of Jewish communities abroad
• To utilize JDC assistance where its expertise may enhance efforts

While JDC-IDP works primarily in communities with existing Jewish programming, in some countries JDC's non-sectarian efforts represent the sole involvement with local populations.

Learn more about JDC-IDP programs worldwide.

 JDC Fact Sheet: International Development Program 

JDC does not use its regular program funds to implement its non-sectarian efforts. A small contribution of seed money from JDC leverages funds from such sources as the U.S. government and foreign governments, international agencies, foundations, and individual donors.

DONATE TO JDC-IDP NON-SECTARIAN PROGRAMS