Mission, Meaning, and Money

The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, affectionately referred to as the "Joint," is considered to be one of the most effective and professionally-run Jewish nonprofit organizations in the United States. To support and expand its rescue, relief, and renewal programs that help individuals in need in almost 70 countries, the organization has in recent years become a fundraising powerhouse. How does the Joint raise over $100 million each year?

By delving deeply into this question, author Mark I. Rosen offers an absorbing history of the Joint that reveals much about the complex structure of Jewish philanthropy in the United States. In the process, he also illuminates principles and practices that can be adopted by any nonprofit to improve leadership and fundraising effectiveness. This well-written and well-researched book is an excellent resource for those with interests in nonprofit management, philanthropy, and organizational change.