New York, NY — The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) announced today that Lisa Gurwitch – a highly accomplished nonprofit executive and fundraiser with a remarkable track record of transformative resource development at global and Jewish organizations – will be its new Chief Advancement Officer, effective March 1, 2022. In this key role, part of JDC’s global senior management team, Gurwitch will lead the fundraising and marketing efforts of the Jewish humanitarian organization working in 70 countries.
“I’m incredibly proud to welcome Lisa to the JDC team! We are fortunate to have her multifaceted experience, entrepreneurial spirit, and mission-driven commitment to lead us toward a new fundraising horizon. Lisa’s deep commitment to Jewish life, and her track record of success, perfectly align with our vision for the future and enduring work supporting Jews, Israel, and needy people around the globe,” said JDC CEO Ariel Zwang.
Gurwitch comes to JDC with three decades of experience building dynamic and diversified fundraising strategies and methodologies that leverage individual donors, foundations, and corporate philanthropy. Lisa’s work has resulted in dramatic organizational growth and hundreds of millions of dollars in support for organizations that help people in need worldwide.
Since 2015, Gurwitch has been the CEO and President of Delivering Good, a nonprofit that pairs major manufacturers and retailers with global humanitarian aid efforts, securing product donations valued at hundreds of millions of dollars a year. Gurwitch previously served as Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement & External Relations for World Learning, which engages in leadership development, education, and civil society-building efforts in 60+ nations. Before this, Lisa served for 18 years in executive roles with the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund, which serves the Jewish community of the Bay Area, giving her profound insight into JDC’s work.
“I am thrilled to join JDC, an organization I have long admired. From Cuba to Ukraine, I have had the pleasure of seeing JDC at work and admire how it strengthens communities across the vast spectrum of Jewish life and empowers vulnerable people for tomorrow. I look forward to working with JDC’s exceptional Board, its stalwart partners and donors, and unparalleled professionals to enhance investments in JDC’s mission and position the organization for the future,” said Gurwitch.
Gurwitch, who is based in New York City, has extensive international development experience. Her time in Israel, Ukraine, Cuba, Austria, and Ethiopia have provided first-hand knowledge of JDC’s programs, the settings the organization operates in, and expertise in overseas grant-making and program development.
