The Jewish Genealogy Society of Greater Washington

The Jewish Genealogy Society of Greater Washington (JGSGW) is an independent, non-profit educational organization founded in 1980 in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The society's primary mission is to collect, preserve, and disseminate Jewish genealogical knowledge and information. It is recognized as one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the United States.

Purpose and Activities

JGSGW serves as a community platform for individuals interested in tracing their Jewish ancestral roots. It promotes genealogical education through various educational programs, workshops, and research projects. The society hosts meetings approximately nine to ten times annually, featuring presentations on diverse topics relevant to Jewish genealogy. Additionally, JGSGW offers workshops tailored for both beginners and intermediate researchers, providing foundational knowledge and advanced techniques in genealogical research.

Membership and Benefits

Membership in JGSGW offers access to exclusive events, including a members-only annual luncheon, workshops, and monthly programs. Members also receive the society's quarterly journal, Mishpacha, which contains articles, news, and program updates. The society maintains a comprehensive library with over 2,000 books and resources related to general and Jewish genealogy, providing personalized support and mentoring for members.

Collaborations and Affiliations

JGSGW is affiliated with several prominent organizations in the genealogy community, including the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS), the Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS), and the National Genealogical Society (NGS). While often mentioned in conjunction with JewishGen, JGSGW is a separate entity and is not directly affiliated with JewishGen.

Challenges in Jewish Genealogy

JGSGW acknowledges the unique challenges faced by those researching Jewish heritage, such as migrations, name changes, and the impact of historical events like pogroms and the Holocaust on family records. The society provides guidance and resources to help navigate these challenges, supporting members in accessing local and international genealogical records.

Tax Status

JGSGW is certified as a non-profit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, making contributions tax-deductible. This status is crucial for the organization's funding and sustainability efforts.

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Community Engagement

The society supports Special Interest Groups (SIGs), such as the Litvak and Bukovina/Galicia SIGs, which meet regularly to discuss research specific to these regions. These groups foster a collaborative environment where members can share knowledge and resources. Additionally, JGSGW maintains a public presence through social media platforms, allowing it to share genealogy resources and connect with a broader community interested in Jewish genealogy.