The American Friends of IDF Widows and Orphans (IDFWO-USA) is proud to announce the appointment of Dan Elbaum as its first executive director. In this newly created role, Elbaum will lead efforts in the U.S. to grow the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization’s (IDFWO) support for the spouses and children of fallen Israel Defense Forces soldiers and members of Israel’s broader security services, while strengthening ties between Israel and American Jewry.
Elbaum brings a distinguished record of leadership in the Jewish communal world. Most recently, as head of North America for The Jewish Agency for Israel, he led the organization’s response from that continent to both the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the tragic events of Oct. 7, 2023, mobilizing global support for those impacted. The grandson of Holocaust survivors, whose mother immigrated to the U.S. from Israel as a teenager, Elbaum has devoted his professional life to deepening the connection between American Jews and Israel.
“IDFWO-USA’s work has always been vital, but in the wake of October 7, it is nothing less than indispensable,” said Elbaum. “I am humbled and honored to work with the board and the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization to do everything possible to stand with the families of Israel’s fallen soldiers and security service members. We owe them a debt that can never be repaid.”
Since Oct. 7, 2023, nearly 900 Israeli soldiers have fallen, leaving behind more than 330 spouses and almost 800 children. Stepping in to meet urgent needs for this vulnerable community, IDFWO has more than tripled in size during the current war.
Shlomi Nahumson, CEO of IDF Widows & Orphans Organization, said, “Dan’s appointment marks a historic moment for our families. For the first time, we have a dedicated leader in the United States whose sole mission is to strengthen the bond between American Jewry and the widows and orphans of Israel’s fallen heroes. Dan brings not only experience and passion, but also a deep personal connection to Israel and the Jewish people. Together, we will ensure that every widow and every orphan knows they are not alone, that the Jewish world stands with them, today and always.”
Yossi Cohen, president of the International Friends of IDF Widows & Orphans Organization and former head of the Mossad, stated, “Dan Elbaum’s leadership is a significant step forward in deepening the global commitment to Israel’s widows and orphans. His proven ability to unite communities and mobilize support will ensure that the families of our fallen heroes are embraced with dignity, strength and solidarity. As someone who has spent my life safeguarding Israel, I know that standing with these families is not only a moral obligation—it is a sacred duty we share as one people.”
Max August, board member of IDFWO-USA, added, “This cause represents the very heart of what it means to be one people. Dan’s leadership gives us the opportunity to elevate our work to a whole new level—expanding our reach, deepening our impact and ensuring that every family who has made the ultimate sacrifice knows that American Jewry stands firmly by their side. This is more than philanthropy; it is a mission of honor and responsibility.”
