# YIVO Institute for Jewish Research

> organization that preserves, studies, and teaches the cultural history of Jewish life

**Wikidata**: [Q259337](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q259337)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YIVO)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/yivo-institute-for-jewish-research

## Summary
The YIVO Institute for Jewish Research is a research institute dedicated to preserving, studying, and teaching the cultural history of Jewish life. Founded in 1925 in Vilnius, Lithuania, it was originally known as the Yiddish Scientific Institute (YIVO) before relocating to New York City in 1940. The organization focuses on Jewish history, culture, and identity, particularly in Eastern Europe.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1925 in Vilnius, Lithuania, as the Yiddish Scientific Institute (YIVO).
- Relocated to New York City in 1940 to escape Nazi persecution.
- Primary purpose is research, with a focus on Jewish cultural history.
- Operates as a nonprofit organization with a 501(c)(3) legal status.
- Has subsidiaries, including the YIVO Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe.
- Headquartered in Manhattan, New York City.
- Revenue in 2023 was $5,978,238 USD.
- Total assets in 2023 were $32,334,838 USD.
- Director/Manager: Jonathan Brent.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research?
A: The YIVO Institute for Jewish Research is a research institute that preserves, studies, and teaches the cultural history of Jewish life, with a focus on Eastern Europe.

### Q: Where was YIVO originally founded?
A: YIVO was originally founded in Vilnius, Lithuania, in 1925 as the Yiddish Scientific Institute.

### Q: When did YIVO relocate to the United States?
A: YIVO relocated to New York City in 1940 to escape Nazi persecution.

### Q: What is YIVO’s primary focus?
A: YIVO’s primary focus is Jewish cultural history, particularly in Eastern Europe.

### Q: Is YIVO a nonprofit organization?
A: Yes, YIVO is a nonprofit organization with a 501(c)(3) legal status.

## Why It Matters
The YIVO Institute for Jewish Research plays a crucial role in documenting and preserving Jewish cultural heritage, particularly in Eastern Europe, which was heavily impacted by the Holocaust. By conducting research and publishing works, YIVO ensures that the history and identity of Jewish communities are not forgotten. Its work is essential for scholars, educators, and the general public seeking to understand Jewish life before and during the 20th century. YIVO’s archives and publications serve as valuable resources for understanding the complexities of Jewish history and culture.

## Notable For
- One of the oldest and most significant institutions dedicated to Jewish research.
- Pioneered the study of Jewish cultural history in Eastern Europe.
- Published the YIVO Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe, a comprehensive reference work.
- Preserved Jewish archives and manuscripts from regions heavily affected by the Holocaust.
- Operates as a nonprofit with a strong focus on education and public outreach.

## Body
### Origins and Founding
The YIVO Institute for Jewish Research was founded in 1925 in Vilnius, Lithuania, as the Yiddish Scientific Institute (YIVO). Its mission was to conduct research on Jewish history, culture, and language, particularly in Eastern Europe.

### Relocation and Survival
In 1940, YIVO relocated to New York City to escape Nazi persecution. The institution continued its work, documenting Jewish life in Eastern Europe before and during the Holocaust.

### Research and Publications
YIVO is known for its extensive research and publications, including the YIVO Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe, which provides detailed information on Jewish communities across the region.

### Archives and Preservation
The institute maintains a vast archive of Jewish manuscripts, documents, and oral histories, ensuring that this cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.

### Nonprofit Status
YIVO operates as a nonprofit organization with a 501(c)(3) legal status, relying on donations and grants to fund its operations.

### Financials
YIVO’s revenue in 2023 was $5,978,238 USD, with total assets of $32,334,838 USD. The institution has subsidiaries, including the YIVO Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe.

### Leadership
Jonathan Brent serves as the director/manager of YIVO, overseeing its research and educational initiatives.

### Impact
YIVO’s work is essential for scholars, educators, and the public seeking to understand Jewish history and culture. Its archives and publications provide critical insights into Jewish life in Eastern Europe.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/131641082)
2. GRID Release 2017-01-10
3. BnF authorities
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. CiNii Research
6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
7. [Kaip rašyti žydų mokyklų pavadinimus?. Commission of the Lithuanian Language](https://www.vlkk.lt/konsultacijos/15113-talmud-tora-chederis-jesiva-kolelis-melamedas)
8. Google Knowledge Graph
9. Nonprofit Explorer
10. [Nonprofit Explorer](https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/131641082)
11. GRID Release 2015-12-14
12. GRID Release 2016-12-06
13. [Source](https://www.yivo.org/)
14. Microsoft Academic Knowledge Graph
15. [Source](https://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&orgid=8930&oldpage)
16. YouTube API