Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, Inc.

The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, Inc. (MCHE) is a non-profit organization based in Overland Park, Kansas, dedicated to teaching the history of the Holocaust. Founded in 1993 by Holocaust survivors Jack Mandelbaum and Isak Federman, MCHE aims to apply the lessons learned from this tragic period to combat indifference, intolerance, and genocide in contemporary society[1][2].

Mission and Vision

MCHE's mission centers on educating diverse audiences about the Holocaust and its implications, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in a democratic society. The organization focuses on ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust are relevant to today’s challenges, particularly in addressing hatred and bigotry[1][2]. Recognizing the importance of survivor testimonies, MCHE has made the preservation and sharing of these accounts a priority, which is evident in their Witnesses to the Holocaust Archive[1].

Programs and Services

MCHE offers a variety of educational programs that cater to different audiences, including educators, students, community groups, and law enforcement agencies. These programs include:

• Presentations by Survivors: Speakers who are children of Holocaust survivors share personal stories to foster understanding and connection.

• Teacher Education: Professional development programs for educators, including the Isak Federman Holocaust Teaching Cadre, support curriculum development about the Holocaust.

• Community Lectures and Exhibits: Public lectures and exhibitions are hosted to engage the broader community on Holocaust-related topics.

• Research Contests: MCHE organizes the annual White Rose Research Contest, encouraging students in grades 8 through 12 to engage with Holocaust scholarship[2][3].

Achievements and Recognition

The organization has received various accolades for its impactful work. Notably, in 2021, MCHE was featured in the documentary All These Delicate Sorrows, which was nominated for an Emmy Award. Additionally, MCHE’s publications and initiatives have earned recognition, including the 2006 Philly Award for best non-profit communication and the 2023 Table of Faiths Award from the Greater Kansas City Interfaith Council for their exhibition Auschwitz: Not Long Ago. Not Far Away.[1].

Community Engagement and Partnerships

MCHE collaborates with a range of institutions, including the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum and several universities across the Midwest. These partnerships enhance the organization’s outreach and educational efforts, allowing MCHE to reach thousands of individuals each year[1][2].

Conclusion

The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education continues to play a vital role in Holocaust education and advocacy, promoting an understanding of the past while actively combating prejudice and intolerance in the present. As a 501(c)(3) organization, MCHE relies on private donations and grants to fund its educational initiatives, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust remain accessible and relevant to future generations[1][5].