New York Philanthropists Robert and Harriet Heilbrunn Donate $2 Million to the American Jewish Committee to Create Endowment Fund for Humanitarian Relief

American Jewish Committee
Thursday, 10 August 2000

Through a $2 million gift from Robert and Harriet Heilbrunn, the American Jewish Committee has established the Robert and Harriet Heilbrunn Humanitarian Relief Fund.

In 1998, the Heilbrunns spearheaded AJC's humanitarian assistance program to support the organization's major relief efforts in Turkey and Kosovo, help Central American victims of Hurricane Mitch, aid in the repair of synagogues damaged by arson in California, and assist Lebanese refugees relocated in northern Israel.

The donation and the creation of the endowment fund were announced today by AJC National President Bruce M. Ramer.

"Recent crises across America and around the world have touched our hearts as Jews and as human beings," said Mr. Ramer. "Robert and Harriet, in the noblest Jewish tradition of tikkun olam -- 'the repair of the world' -- have never been able to sit silently by while human tragedy unfolds. Through their kindness and compassion, AJC has been able to help alleviate some of the suffering of those in need. We are very grateful to Robert and Harriet for their support through the years and especially for their latest and incredibly generous gift which will allow us to respond to international emergencies more effectively and efficiently."

In announcing their gift to AJC, the Heilbrunns stated that "as members of the human family we share an innate responsibility for one another. As Jews, we have learned the all too painful lesson of what happens when we are silent and ignore those who need our attention and our help. We are gratified to support the American Jewish Committee in this critical humanitarian endeavor. As one of the most respected human rights organizations in America and around the world, AJC is uniquely qualified to provide aid when and where it is needed most."

Harriet and Robert Heilbrunn, of New York City, are members of AJC's Board of Governors. In 1997, through a $1 million gift, AJC established the Harriet and Robert Heilbrunn Institute for International Interreligious Understanding to expand the agency's already highly acclaimed interreligious work around the world, including with the Muslim community. The Institute sponsors research projects, international conferences, and publications.

The Heilbrunns are also generous supporters of various philanthropic causes, with a special devotion to education and healthcare. Other major gifts have been made to Columbia University School of Business and School of Public Health and Mrs. Heilbrunn's alma mater, Long Island University.

For more information, or to contact American Jewish Committee, see their website at: www.ajc.org