This collection contains correspondence, reports, and other ephemera from Mintzer's work with the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) in Germany from 1945-1946. This includes letters between Oscar A. Mintzer and his wife discussing his work with the JDC and what he saw happening in the camps while helping displaced persons in Germany. Notably, he describes attending the Dachau Trials in November 1945. It also contains materials relating to his work as the executive director of the Jewish Welfare Federation of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties; his fundraising efforts; and to his interests and activities concerning the Jewish charities of the East Bay.

Oscar "Art" Mintzer was born in New York City. Immediately after the end of World War II, he went to Germany with the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) that was attached to the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Agency to help Holocaust survivors. During his time in Germany from 1945-1946 he was appointed Legal Aid Director in the U.S. Zone for the JDC. In this role he provided services to protect the legal and civil rights of displaced persons. He settled in Oakland, California in 1959, became very active in local Jewish affairs and was made the executive director of the Jewish Welfare Federation of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. When he retired, he became its executive director emeritus.

6 linear feet (2 cartons, 1 box, 2 oversize boxes, 2 volumes)

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The collection is open for research with the exception of Oversize box 1, which is restricted and requires curatorial permission to view.