History

National Council of Jewish Women New York is steeped in a rich history of spearheading progressive change. Over the last 130 years, NCJW NY has pioneered community services and advocacy initiatives that benefit the most marginalized populations in our society – new immigrants arriving at Ellis Island seeking a better life in America; mothers seeking education and economic stability; and seniors at risk of isolation and decline. 

Formed in 1894 by smart and passionate women who had few outlets for their industrious minds, NCJW NY’s mission was to develop women’s leadership through opportunities for hands-on community service and grassroots advocacy. Times have certainly changed, but the spirit of NCJW NY and the need for our work has not. Today, NCJW NY’s professional staff work in partnership with our volunteers to advance social justice through both direct social services and advocacy for systemic change. 

As new needs or gaps in our community emerged, we worked to find solutions and implemented new programming to address them. Click through to learn more about the significant impact we have had on New York City in the last century.