About IAJGS

NOTE: The mission statement and objectives are currently in
the process of being revised.

The International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS) is an organization of organizations formed in 1988 to provide a common voice for issues of significance to its members, to advance our genealogical avocation, and to coordinate items such as the annual International Conference on Jewish Genealogy.

The IAJGS is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions made by U.S. residents are tax deductible.

Most local and national Jewish Genealogical Societies (JGSs) and a number of Jewish genealogical Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and historical societies are members.

The purposes and objectives of the IAJGS are well outlined in its bylaws.

Objectives of the IAJGS

  1. To collect, preserve, and disseminate knowledge and information with reference to Jewish genealogy
  2. To assist and promote the research of Jewish family history
  3. To provide opportunities for the sharing of Jewish genealogical information
  4. To encourage the publication of worthy material in the field of Jewish genealogy
  5. To promote membership in member Jewish genealogical societies
  6. To act as spokesperson for Jewish genealogical societies in areas of mutual interest
  7. To provide member societies with services to help them become more effective organizations
  8. To elevate Jewish genealogy among people who are searching Jewish roots and in the academic community
  9. To promote public access to genealogically relevant records
  10. To foster creation of Jewish genealogical organizations in unserved areas

Significant Activities in Furtherance of These Objectives

  • Routinely providing new and potential societies with organizational assistance
  • Presenting achievement awards recognizing excellence in various aspects of Jewish genealogy
  • Providing monetary awards to facilitate activities that provide resources for Jewish genealogists
  • Ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of the annual International Conference on Jewish Genealogy
  • Gathering and making available data to support the research of Jewish genealogists (including the Family Tree of the Jewish People, cemetery and burial information, and Jewish records at the FHL)
  • Providing list services to facilitate email communication between member society presidents, program chairs, and newsletter editors
  • Providing the ability for our U.S. member societies to be recognized as 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations under the umbrella of the IAJGS 501(c)(3) status

The IAJGS Board meets periodically both in person and by telephone conference call to review progress on our various ongoing activities and to initiate new activities in support of our member societies and Jewish genealogy in general. We welcome suggestions and offers of voluntary assistance. Please send ideas for projects or services directly to the IAJGS president or to any member of the IAJGS Board of Directors. Also, please write if you would like to volunteer your efforts to furthering the objectives of the IAJGS.


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