Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

  • What is StandWithUs?

    StandWithUs is an international non-profit Israel education organization. We are inspired by our love for Israel and the belief that education is the road to peace. 

    StandWithUs is dedicated to educating people of all ages about Israel and to combating the extremism and anti-Semitism that often distorts the issues. We believe that knowledge of the facts will correct common prejudices about the Arab-Israeli conflict, and will promote discussions and policies that can help promote peace in the region.

    We educate via cutting-edge campaigns, materials, speakers, programs, conferences and missions to Israel. We reach millions of people globally via a multitude of social media platforms in 18 different languages. We ensure that the story of Israel’s achievements and ongoing challenges is told in middle schools, in high schools, on college campuses and in communities around the world. 

    Headquartered in Los Angeles, StandWithUs has eighteen offices and chapters across the U.S., Canada, Israel and in the UK, with our flagship Education Center in the heart of Jerusalem. We also host programs in Latin America, South Africa, China, Europe and Australia.

    StandWithUs has the highest Charity Navigator rating – 4 out of 4 stars – and the highest rating on GuideStar – platinum level.

  • Is StandWithUs Right Wing or Left Wing?

    StandWithUs is non-partisan, meaning that we are neither left wing, nor right wing. While we educate about political issues, we do not identify with one side of the political spectrum. Our board of directors, donors, staff and supporters are from all over the political map. They come together in the StandWithUs family because they believe in the work we do as an education organization.

    Because we are non-partisan, we do not endorse or oppose any Israeli political leadership or campaign for specific political parties anywhere else in the world. Nor do we take a position on controversial issues within Israeli society, such as settlements or debates over religion and state. Our approach to such issues is two-fold. First, if the discussion features misinformation about Israel or a lack of context (which happens frequently), we aim to correct the record and add relevant context. Second, we educate about and facilitate discussions featuring conflicting perspectives about the topic at hand. Our goal is to empower people to make such discourse more factual and constructive through education.

  • What is a Herzl Dinner, and how can I attend one?

    Each year, StandWithUs members and donors generously host private dinners and events at their homes in an effort to increase momentum in the lead-up to the annual Festival of Lights gala in December. Herzl Dinners are hosted by board members, donors, or local members, gathering an intimate group of StandWithUs supporters to discuss the organisation’s efforts and hear from high level speakers. To learn more about Herzl Dinners and further involvement with our organisation’s fundraising efforts, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • How can StandWithUs help me combat anti-Israel activity in my community?

    StandWithUs’s professional staff, members, and volunteers are available to provide you with resources and information to combat anti-Israel activity in your community. Our staff of campus professionals work with students on college and university campuses, providing them with training and education, resources, and funding for events. In communities, StandWithUs is present and available to provide you with information and resources to combat anti-Israel events and activity. Please view our resources (brochures, flyers, signs, factsheets, etc.) on a plethora of topics and issues online on this website, or contact your local StandWithUs chapter for further support.

  • How can I volunteer with/for StandWithUs? (volunteer opportunities)

    We can always use more help in our vast efforts, locally or internationally. Please contact your local StandWithUs chapter to get involved and volunteer at events or with various projects. 

  • Does StandWithUs maintain a social media presence?

    Yes, our social media presence is one of the largest of all pro-Israel organizations. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and more! 

    See a list of all of our accounts here: Social Media Page 

  • How can I best support StandWithUs’s mission?

    By making a donation to StandWithUs, you enable us to continue our work to combat anti-Israel propaganda and defend Israel by educating the public. Donations made to StandWithUs are applied directly to continuing our work, including creating more print materials, supporting our research, videos, web and social media departments, campus professionals, and funding for our fellowships. 

  • Can I attend a local StandWithUs event in my community?

    Yes. StandWithUs chapters nation-wide continuously hold events in local communities. Most events are open to the public, and some require a small fee to cover costs. Please visit our Events page at www.standwithus.com/events to view a calendar of our events by chapter, and for more information on upcoming events.

  • How can I start a chapter in my city/community?

    We are continuously expanding our efforts to different cities around North America and worldwide. If you are interested in opening a StandWithUs chapter, and believe that your city/community has the right amount of passion and resources to support our efforts, please contact Jerry Rothstein at JerryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 122.

  • Can I advertise on the StandWithUs website?

    Yes. As one of the most popular pro-Israel organizations, and as a portal of information and resources on Israel worldwide, our website experiences high levels of international web traffic. To advertise on our site, please contact Jerry Rothstein at JerryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 122.

  • Is StandWithUs funded by the Israeli government?

    StandWithUs is an independent, non-governmental nonprofit organization. As such it does not receive funding or direction from the Israeli government.

    In 2015, a proposed collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office was discussed, under which StandWithUs would have retained full, independent control over messaging. However, as noted in this article, the program never materialized.

    While we see value in partnerships with governmental agencies, as a matter of policy we have chosen not to accept such funding to underscore our commitment to remaining independent and non-politically aligned in our educational efforts.

  • What is the difference between StandWithUs being an education vs. an advocacy organization?

    The definition of advocacy is public support for a specific policy. As a non-partisan education organization, StandWithUs does not advocate for or encourage its employees or students to advocate for any policy of the government of Israel.  

    Our work is inspired by our shared love for Israel, our belief that education is the road to peace, and our commitment to stand up for Israel and the Jewish people. Our staff are united in advancing education which recognizes and respects the basic rights of the Jewish people to self-determination in their ancestral homeland. This includes support for Zionism and the existence of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, along with active opposition to rhetoric and campaigns that deny or seek to end Israel’s existence.  

     

    Historical and current issues related to the policies, beliefs and values of Zionism and Israel are part of the education that StandWithUs aims to provide. Our approach to controversial Israeli policies and actions is two-fold. First, if the discussion features misinformation about Israel or a lack of context (which happens frequently), we aim to correct the record and add relevant context. Second, we educate about and facilitate discussions featuring conflicting perspectives about various topics. As such, we cover criticisms of Israel and counterarguments, and generally do not take official positions against Israeli policy. It is also important to note that our mission and goals do not include stifling critical discourse about Israel or the conflict. One of our goals is to empower people to make such discourse more factual and rational, by correcting misinformation and adding context. 

  • If StandWithUs is not an advocacy organization, does it never advocate for or against any type of legislation or policy in the United States or elsewhere?

    There are cases where we do advocate for or against certain policies related to Israel, antisemitism, and education issues, particularly in the United States. Whenever we take such steps, we do so in a way that is non-partisan and advances our mission to educate about Israel and fight antisemitism. For example, we have supported bipartisan anti-BDS laws at a state level and pushed for the federal government to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism. Nevertheless, because we spend the vast majority of our time doing education rather than advocacy, we consider ourselves an education organization first and foremost.

  • Is StandWithUs open to criticism about Israel? If so, are there limits? How are these defined?

    Yes, StandWithUs is open to criticism and open conversations about Israel representing different points of view. We unequivocally support free speech and democratic debate. At the same time we take issue with criticism of Israel that is factually inaccurate, misleading, lacking in context, or antisemitic under the IHRA definition. Our approach to such rhetoric is to engage and educate constructively, unless it becomes clear that the criticism is being expressed in bad faith.  

    As an organization, StandWithUs is openly opposed to Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaigns and seeks to educate about why the goals of BDS, along with many of its tactics, are hateful and antithetical to peace and justice for Israelis and Palestinians. However, opposition to BDS does not mean that StandWithUs considers every BDS supporter a malicious antisemite. Nor do we reject dialogue about issues that some BDS supporters raise with regards to specific Israeli policies.  

    StandWithUs staff are committed to education about Israel and to providing students with the resources to become more effective educators in topics – general and specific – that they would like to share with their peers. There is nothing off limits in terms of subject matter. The absence of discussion about a particular issue in StandWithUs educational programs is not intended to prevent the development of an open and honest discussion about all matters related to Israel, including engaging with criticism of Israel. What matters is that criticism of Israel is conducted within the limits of free speech and doesn’t cross into antisemitism. StandWithUs has developed materials on how to identify antisemitism and criticize Israel without descending into hateful rhetoric.  

    Every individual that takes part in StandWithUs educational programs is equally valued. Our commitment to education is non-discriminatory on all grounds, including that of political views. 

  • Is StandWithUs committed to telling only one version of Israel’s story?

    As an organization that empowers people to tell Israel’s story, StandWithUs’ materials do contain presuppositions that Zionism, defined as support for the right of the Jewish people to self-determination, is just and should be normalized as such. Our education is framed in relationship to this world view. StandWithUs seeks to tell Israel’s story, not anyone else’s, by presenting facts and evidence in a way that connects to different audiences and leaves a lasting impression about why supporting Israel’s continued existence as a thriving country is a just cause. This is not an endorsement of specific partisan political views and does not negate criticism of various Israeli government policies. We also reject the idea that support for the Jewish right to self-determination must inherently come at the expense of Palestinians or anyone else. 

    ‘Telling Israel’s story’ shouldn’t be confused with ‘Telling the Israeli government’s story’ or ‘Arguing for the legitimacy of one view about Israel’. We engage with many forms of Zionism across the political spectrum, which are tied together by a core belief in the basic right of the Jewish people to self-determination in their ancestral home.  

  • Does StandWithUs perpetuate a negative view of Palestinians and the Arab world? Doesn’t it do this through social media?

    Our policy is to never generalize about or blame Palestinians or Arabs as a whole. We direct our criticism specifically at Palestinian leaders and terrorist groups, Arab governments, Iran’s regime, and others when they engage in antisemitism, promote violence, perpetuate conflict, and oppress their own citizens. We expose their extremism, hatred, and human rights abuses consistently because there is unfortunately a lack of such criticism and accountability on social media and in the international community. We believe it is important for the public to be aware of what these actors are saying and doing.  

    If you have questions about specific content coming from StandWithUs, please reach out to us. 

  • Are Zionists who vocally oppose Israeli policies in the West Bank and elsewhere welcome at StandWithUs?

    Yes, we are open to Zionists who vocally call for Israel to give up the West Bank, along with those who vocally argue that Israel cannot do so until Palestinian leaders are willing to make peace, those who believe Israel can’t be secure without the IDF having a presence along the border between the West Bank and Jordan, those who believe Jews have inalienable rights to live in Judea and Samaria (aka the West Bank), and more. All are welcome to take part in our educational programs and engage with us. 

    What we will not do is provide resources or organizational backing for events, campaigns, etc that are meant to advocate for one of these political positions, as opposed to educating about the issue in a holistic way using facts and context. We recognize that there are people of good will inside and outside of Israel who have different political and ideological views about many important issues, and it is not our mission to decide who is right. We also respect Israel’s democratic process, and do not believe it is our place to tell Israelis what they should do to protect themselves from terrorism and build a more peaceful future with their neighbors.

Donations & Ways To Give

  • How can I make a donation?

    Many of our members are simply unable to work on the front lines, but they CAN support those who do. We do not require a membership fee because we feel that everyone should receive our alerts, but we have a multitude of critical projects that need funding and generate ongoing operational costs. 

    If you wish to make a donation, please visit our website: www.standwithus.com/donate OR call our office at 310 -836-6140.

    StandWithUs, also known as the Israel Emergency Alliance, is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your gift to StandWithUs made locally in the USA, Canada, the UK and in Israel is fully tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

  • How can I give on a consistent basis?

    We can help you set up a payment plan to contribute to StandWithUs on a consistent basis. To contribute to StandWithUs on a consistent basis through a payment plan, please contact our office at (310) 836-6140. You can also make scheduled monthly, quarterly, or annual recurring payments online at www.standwithus.com/donate.

  • How can I arrange a planned gift?

    Yes, we graciously work with donors and benefactors to organize a planned gift, whether in the form of an endowment, stock, or as part of a will. To arrange a planned gift, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • How can I help StandWithUs in applying for grants and major gifts from various foundations?

    If you know of anyone who can help us apply for a grant, or know individuals at various foundations that would be interested in funding our work, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • Is it possible to send a memorial gift in honor of or in memory of another person?

    We happy to assist you in making a memorial gift to honor a departed loved one, or to remember a friend or family member. You can make a tribute donation (in memory of, or in honor of) through the donation page on our website, or by calling our office at 310-836-6140. With a minimum donation of $18, a tribute card will be sent at your request on your behalf.

  • How do I request a tax receipt? Are donations tax-deductible?

    To request a tax receipt, please contact our accounting team at 310-836-6140. StandWithUs also known as the Israel Emergency Alliance, is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your gift to StandWithUs is fully tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

  • What other ways can I support StandWithUs?

    In addition to monetary contributions, you can support StandWithUs by visiting our online store and making a purchase from our variety of items, including printed material, e-books, Judaica products year-round, and gift baskets for all occasions.You can visit our shop on this website.

  • What naming opportunities does StandWithUs provide?

    Many of our donors and supporters want to honor a living or departed loved one by making a sizeable donation to StandWithUs over a multi-year period, and naming a project or department after that individual. StandWithUs is continuously working on developing new and existing projects, and expanding our efforts worldwide. We are happy to help you with a naming opportunity, and develop a longstanding relationship with StandWithUs. For more information, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • Can I support an individual campus or Israel group through StandWithUs?

    To support an individual campus or Israel group through your donation to StandWithUs, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • How can I fundraise directly for StandWithUs?

    We appreciate your desire to help StandWithUs grow and expand our efforts to support Israel worldwide. To fundraise directly for StandWithUs, or host local donor events, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • What other ways can I contribute?

    There are numerous other ways to contribute to StandWithUs, including hosting an event at your house, introducing us to your community and friends, and by supporting a specific project or initiative undertaken by StandWithUs. If you have any other ideas on how to contribute, or if you want to contribute to StandWithUs, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • Can I make a contribution of Gifts in Kind?

    Many of our members and benefactors contribute gifts in kind to StandWithUs on a regular basis. To make a contribution of Gifts in Kind, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • Do you accept donations of stock?

    Yes, StandWithUs will gratefully accept donations of stock. To donate stock, bonds, or options, please contact Gary Ratner at GaryR@standwithus.com or at (310) 836-6140 ext. 101.

  • Is it safe to donate online with my credit card?

    Yes. All information provided to StandWithUs online is secured in our system. We protect your personal information, including credit card details, by keeping it on a secure external database (rather than on the website) that is only accessible by certain qualified employees of StandWithUs.

  • How much of my donation goes to help Israel?

    Your donation is applied to the work being done by StandWithUs in high schools, on college campuses, and in communities. Through our eighteen offices worldwide, including our significant presence in Israel, we focus on countering anti-Israel propaganda and promoting Israel.

Matching Gift Program

  • Contact Info

    For further information about matching gifts to StandWithUs, please contact Gary Ratner at (310)836-6140 ext. 101 or email garyr@standwithus.com.

    Please send your completed forms to:

    StandWithUs

    6505 Wilshire Blvd, 5th Floor

    Los Angeles, CA 90048

    Attn: Gary Ratner, Senior Executive

    or email: garyr@standwithus.com

  • Does my company have a matching gift program?
    Click here to search for your company’s name. 
    If not listed, please contact your Human Resources Department as each company has its own set of rules.
  • What will the procedure be?
    • Make a donation to StandWithUs
    • Request a Matching Gift form from your company
    • Fill out the form with your information and send it with your gift to StandWithUs
    • StandWithUs will review and complete the form and return it to your company
    • After processing, your company will issue a matching gift to StandWithUs.
  • IRS Info

    The IRS does not consider StandWithUs to be a religious organization. As a 501(c)3 corporation, we are required to file an IRS Form 990. A copy of this can be found on our website. If your company requires an Employer Identification Number (EIN), please use 01-0566033. StandWithUs has maintained a 4-star Charity Navigator rating as well as Guidestar Platinum level for seven years.

Israel Fellowship

  • What is the Application Process?

    Each year, 120 of the best and brightest Israeli university students are selected to be StandWithUs Fellows and are guided to become effective global ambassadors for Israel, preparing these exceptional young adults to assume leadership roles in Israeli society. Students from all major academic institutions in Israel, from all faculties and fields of study were invited to apply.

    After the close of registration, the most qualified candidates are invited to a group dynamics session which includes several small group assignments, in English and Hebrew. The candidates who successfully pass this stage are invited for a personal interview. At the end of the screening process each year, 120 Israeli student fellows are selected from approximately 1,000 applicants.

    Application is open to all Israeli Students in the beginning of each year, around October. If you want to submit your application click here.

  • What universities do you partner with?

    The Fellowship Operates on six university campuses nationwide, including: Tel Aviv University, Ben Gurion University, Bar Ilan University, The Hebrew University, Reichman University (IDC), Haifa University and the Technion.

FLI

  • Who is this program for?

    Lorem

Explore UK

  • Who is this program for?

    Explore is a brand-new programme for Sixth Formers to be offered to schools and youth organisations.

StartUp

  • Who is this program for?

    StartUp is an exciting StandWithUs UK programme for pupils in Year 10.

  • Who is this program for?

    StartUp is an exciting StandWithUs UK programme for pupils in Year 10.

Emerson Fellowship

  • What is the Emerson Fellowship: Christian Outreach program?

    This specialized opportunity empowers Christian student leaders to educate their campus and church communities about Israel and antisemitism. Christian Outreach Fellows receive mentorship from the StandWithUs Director of Christian Outreach, attend two student conferences, and participate in immersive learning experiences to connect with Christian and Jewish leaders. 

  • Can Emerson Fellows take on further roles after completing the program?

    Yes, exemplary Emerson Fellows may be selected to become StandWithUs Campus Liaisons. These individuals work part-time with the Campus Department and mentor younger students within the StandWithUs network. 

  • What is the StandWithUs Emerson Fellowship?

    The StandWithUs Emerson Fellowship is activating student leaders on a global scale, with chapters in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia.

  • Who can apply to be an Emerson Fellow?

    Emerson Fellows are chosen from key universities and represent a wide range of campuses across the globe, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia. 

  • What kind of training do Emerson Fellows receive?

    Fellows receive comprehensive training in Israel education, community-building, campus leadership, and handling antisemitism on campus. They also have access to StandWithUs resources and specialists, and participate in expert-led workshops throughout the year. 

  • Are there any conferences or events for Emerson Fellows?

    Yes, Emerson Fellows are invited to attend two transformative conferences and participate in ongoing workshops that continue their training throughout the program year. 

  • Can Emerson Fellows take on further roles after completing the program?

    Yes, exemplary Emerson Fellows may be selected to become StandWithUs Campus Liaisons. These individuals work part-time with the Campus Department and mentor younger students within the StandWithUs network. 

  • Is there a network for Emerson Fellows to connect with each other?

    Yes, throughout their fellowship, Emerson Fellows are part of a worldwide network of student leaders to share ideas, effective strategies, and offer mutual support. 

  • Is there an alumni network for Emerson Fellows?

    Yes, alumni are inducted into the StandWithUs Alumni Network, which offers tailored programs, leadership committees, local event invitations, job opportunities, and more to help them stay active and connected with StandWithUs and their peers. 

  • How many leaders has the Emerson Fellowship trained?

    Since its inception, the StandWithUs Emerson Fellowship has trained and activated over 2,000 leaders!

  • How can I get involved with the Emerson Fellowship?

    You can join the global movement by becoming an Emerson Fellow, recruiting an Emerson Fellow, or sponsoring an Emerson Fellow. For more information, reach out to Campus@standwithus.com. 

TEVEL

  • What is the cost associated with TEVEL?

    The cost of participating in the program is subsidized and amounts to NIS 800 – a one-time payment for the entire year of activity. (Financial assistance will be provided if necessary)

  • Who is this program for?

    10th grade students only

Teen Leadership Council

  • Eligibility Requirements:
    • Must be a high school student
    • Must have already demonstrated your passion and leadership for Israel
    • Must be articulate and respected by your peers

Kenneth Leventhal High School Internship

  • Eligibility Requirements:
    • Must be a rising junior (11th) or senior (12th) in high school in the United States or Canada
    • Applicants must be self-identified leaders, who want to cultivate their leadership skills, learn about Israel, combat antisemitism, and make an impact in their schools and communities
    • Must be nominated by a teacher, mentor, or community leader​ who can speak to the applicant’s skillset
  • What is the cost associated with the Leventhal Internship?

    The internship is 100% free! We pay for all your conference fees, including hotel and flight costs. In addition, we provide you with the support, including financial, to plan and implement successful educational programs in your community. 

  • Do my references need to send letters of recommendation for the Leventhal Internship?

    They do not need to send letters of recommendation. Please inform them that we may contact them to speak about your leadership experience and skills. 

  • Can I participate in the StandWithUs Kenneth Leventhal High School Internship or Teen Leadership Council if I haven’t been to Israel?

    While a trip to Israel is a fantastic way to learn, it is not a requirement for our leadership programs.

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