Jewish World Logo PNG
The Jewish World logo represents the global scope of a company that addresses issues of global justice and advocates for human rights. This is demonstrated in a simple symbol expressing hope for a better life without poverty, injustice, and wars.
Jewish World: Brand overview
The history of American Jewish World Service (AJWS) began in Boston in 1985 when Larry Phillips founded an organization to promote the Jewish concept of “Tikkun olam,” or “repairing the world.” This initiative brought together rabbis, activists, and Jewish community leaders. It became the first Jewish organization dedicated to helping people in need, regardless of their background or faith. In its early years, the organization contributed small to grassroots groups in developing nations, fostering relationships with local communities.
In the early 1990s, the organization expanded its focus by launching anti-poverty initiatives in Asia and Africa. During this period of rapid growth, it established its first long-term partnerships with local groups, laying the foundation for a global network of collaborations.
In 1998, Ruth Messinger, a former Manhattan Borough President, became the Executive Director, bringing transformative changes. Under her leadership, the group significantly expanded its activities. By the late 1990s, it had introduced programs to empower women and initiated educational projects, enhancing its impact.
Between 2000 and 2005, the organization gained widespread international recognition. It played an active role in campaigns to end the genocide in Darfur, drawing global attention. Its budget grew substantially during this time, reaching several million dollars, which enabled broader initiatives and increased geographic reach.
By 2007, the group had launched new initiatives, including campaigns to protect the rights of indigenous peoples and sexual minorities. 2008, it significantly increased its presence in Latin America and the Caribbean. In 2009, it introduced a volunteer program for young American Jews to inspire a new generation of activists.
In 2011, the organization conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its operations, identifying three main areas of focus: disaster relief, poverty reduction, and human rights advocacy. To enhance the effectiveness of its efforts, new criteria for selecting partner organizations were implemented.
In 2016, Robert Bank, formerly the Executive Vice President, succeeded Ruth Messinger as President. Under his leadership, efforts to advance the rights of women and girls deepened. Between 2017 and 2019, the group launched projects to combat gender-based violence and child marriage in several countries.
From 2020 to 2023, the organization grew, particularly in human rights advocacy. It introduced initiatives to combat discrimination and expanded support for LGBT+ communities in regions where their rights are restricted. During this time, partnerships with regional groups across the globe increased.
By 2023, the group had awarded over $300 million in grants. It supported hundreds of local initiatives in more than 30 countries, working to improve lives and protect human rights. It has become a leading Jewish entity committed to advancing global development and human rights.
Meaning and History
What is the Jewish World?
This global organization focuses on human rights advocacy and international development support. It embodies Jewish values of justice through actionable initiatives worldwide. The brand collaborates with local organizations to combat poverty, protect human rights, promote gender equality, and assist indigenous peoples in asserting their rights to resources and land. Special attention is given to marginalized groups that often face the greatest challenges. The organization fosters long-term change through grant funding, campaigns, and uniting people within and beyond the Jewish community.
1985 – today
The Jewish World emblem resembles a circle but is not an actual circle. How is this possible? The design features short lines curved into arcs. Essentially, they look like classic brackets arranged unconventionally. These brackets are not aligned with the cardinal directions; they are slightly shifted instead of perfectly centered or placed on the sides. One end of each arc overlaps with the next. This symbolizes the unity of organizations, mutual support among project participants, and the global nature of its mission.
The middle sections of the curved lines are thicker than their ends, giving the shapes a resemblance to boomerangs. This ties well with the concept of a nonprofit organization fighting poverty. The logo visually conveys the idea that everything comes back like a boomerang— the more good a person does for others, the kinder the world becomes toward them. This idea is reflected in the organization’s visual identity, with its name in the center of the improvised ring.
The text is divided into four centered lines in uppercase sans-serif font. All the glyphs are bold with rounded ends, emphasizing the friendliness of the organization. From a graphic perspective, four letters stand out:
- “R” with a gracefully curved leg and a flare at the top;
- “V” and “W” with an arc-shaped curve on their right strokes;
- “D” with a step-like design at the top.
Despite these distinctive features, all the characters are visible and easily readable. Two semi-circular elements are dark turquoise, and the other two arcs are rendered in a shade resembling dark gold. This palette reflects the organization’s high aspirations, humanity, and value to society.
