We exist to empower young people to become courageous changemakers by fostering empathy, understanding and action against intolerance. We believe in the power of young people to change the world. Through the timeless voice of Anne Frank, we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, courage, empathy, and hope can illuminate the path forward. Her story is not just a window into the past—it is
a call to action for the future. To honor Anne Frank’s legacy by ensuring her message of hope, resilience, and the fight against intolerance resonates with future generations, the Anne Frank Center USA has grown from a focused effort on preserving Anne’s diary and legacy into a dynamic force for social change. We empower the next generation to confront intolerance, to challenge prejudice, and build bridges of understanding in order to prevent bigotry, antisemitism, racism, and discrimination. By fostering empathy and promoting action, we transform passive witnesses into active change agents, ready to stand against hate and create a more compassionate and just world. We believe that education is a catalyst for change. By teaching the lessons of history, we inspire young people to question, to speak out, and lead with compassion. Our transformative education through the arts empowers people to see beyond stereotypes and divisions, embrace our shared humanity, and recognize the profound impact of their choices. The courage to act starts with the courage to care. Together, we honor Anne Frank’s legacy by amplifying her message: that every voice matters, and that small acts of kindness, bravery, and understanding can shape the course of history. We are dreamers of a better tomorrow and builders of a brighter today. With empathy as our foundation, education as our tool, and action as our purpose, we invite you to join us in creating a world where every individual— no matter their background—is treated with dignity and respect. This is our mission. Together, we will foster courage. Together, we will inspire action. Together, we will make change.
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The Anne Frank Center USA traces its roots to the efforts of Anne Frank’s father, Otto Frank, who sought to preserve his daughter’s legacy. In the 1950s, Otto Frank worked tirelessly to raise funds in the U.S. to support the restoration of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. His determination led to the establishment of the Anne Frank Foundation in New York, which was dedicated to raising funds for this cause. Key figures such as Senator John F. Kennedy and former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt supported his mission, and Otto Frank’s efforts proved successful when the Anne Frank House opened its doors to the public in 1960. As the movement to honor Anne’s legacy gained momentum, the Anne Frank Foundation evolved into the Anne Frank Center USA, securing official 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 1977. Under the leadership of Holocaust survivor Jack P***k, the organization grew to become a powerful voice for combating prejudice and promoting tolerance. P***k’s tireless work on behalf of the Center earned him a knighthood by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands in 1992, acknowledging his lifelong commitment to the values Anne Frank stood for. While the Anne Frank Center USA has evolved over the years, its mission remains firmly rooted in Anne Frank’s enduring legacy – a message of hope and resilience to empower the next generation. Today, our decentralized structure means we’re able direct most of our funds toward educational programs and outreach, ensuring that the impact of our work is felt far and wide, and allowing us to amplify Anne Frank’s message to more communities across the country.
