Thanks To Scandinavia, American Jewish Committee Joining to Permanently Honor Rescuers of Jews

American Jewish Committee
Thursday, 10 August 2000

The American Jewish Committee and Thanks to Scandinavia announced today that the two organizations are establishing a formal association to collaborate on educational projects that honor the unique roles of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden in rescuing Jews during the Holocaust.

Founded in 1963 by entertainer Victor Borge and New York attorney Richard Netter, Thanks To Scandinavia grants annually over $250,000 in scholarships to Scandinavian students to study at American universities and medical centers, and grants scholarships to Scandinavian students in Israel and in Scandinavia.

The American Jewish Committee has long been involved in Holocaust-related issues, from conducting and publishing groundbreaking research and promoting Holocaust education around the world, to advocating on behalf of survivors and recognizing rescuers.

"Our association with Thanks To Scandinavia is a natural affiliation," said Bruce M. Ramer, president of the American Jewish Committee. "We are delighted that Thanks to Scandinavia and AJC will be working jointly to highlight and honor the special role of the Scandinavian countries during the Holocaust."

Since its founding 37 years ago, Thanks To Scandinavia has spearheaded recognition of the heroism and selfless devotion of the people to humanity in saving their Jewish compatriots from the horrors of the Nazis. The realization that it is possible of the righteous to stand against evil, TTS believes, must be publicized, recognized and preserved as a moral guidepost and standard of human behavior for all time.

From its inception, Mr. Borge has served as National Chairman, and Mr. Netter has served as President of Thanks To Scandinavia.

"It is critical that younger generations of Americans, as well as of Scandinavians, know the remarkable stories of courage, heroism and rescue," said Mr. Netter. "Our new relationship with the American Jewish Committee will assure the perpetuity of that extraordinary period in history. "

Under the association agreement, Mr. Netter will continue to serve as TTS President, and Michael D. Beinner will continue as Vice President for Administration. Rebecca Neuwirth has been appointed Executive Director of TTS. The organization's office is moving to AJC Headquarters in New York.

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