America-Israel Cultural Foundation
The America Israel Cultural Foundation (AICF) was established in 1939 to support the growth and development of Israel. Originally established as the American Fund for Palestinian Institutions, after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 the name was changed to the American Fund for Israeli Institutions, and subsequently re-incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit foundation in the US as its current name, the America Israel Cultural Foundation.
It was in danger of closing in the wake of losses caused by the Ponzi scheme run by Bernard Madoff.[1][2]
After initial years of funding the development of Israeli life through capital projects involving agriculture, archeology, culture, law, and numerous other categories, the organization shifted its focus entirely to culture and by 1954 was entirely focused on cultural support. As an early provider of seed money for nearly all of the notable cultural institutions in Israel, including the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Israel Museum, the Batsheva Dance Company and over 600 other institutions, AICF helped establish and maintain the long-standing excellence of Israeli culture throughout the world. In 1961, it gave entertainer Jack Benny an award for his support.[3][4]
Early recipients included Daniel Barenboim, Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman, Miriam Fried, Rami Bar-Niv, Yefim Bronfman, and to date over 13,000 young artists have been supported.
References
- ^ Noam Ben Ze'ev (13 January 2009). "America-Israel Cultural Foundation in danger of closing after Madoff losses". Haaretz. Retrieved 29 April 2010.
- ^ Schweitzer, Vivien (January 13, 2010). "Cabaret Garnishes a Chamber Concert". The New York Times. Retrieved 29 April 2010.
- ^ "Jack Benny Gets Award for Aid to Israel". Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, California: November 21, 1961. p. B1. Retrieved 29 April 2010.
- ^ "Dr. William F. Baker to Be Honored by the America-Israel Cultural Foundation with Its Prestigious King Solomon Award at November 11 Gala Concert". October 18, 2007. Retrieved 29 April 2010.