Its mission is to preserve the legacy of the Holocaust by honoring victims' memories and to educate in the service of combating hatred, prejudice, and indifference.

[1] The Museum fulfills its mission through its collections-based exhibitions and through education programs and other initiatives that promote human rights and the elimination of genocide.

The foundation and small museum were established as a response to a Neo-Nazi group's attempt to march through Skokie,[2] in which many Holocaust survivors had settled in the decades following the atrocities.

On April 19, 2009, the museum opened to the public in a new building with festivities including a keynote speech by Bill Clinton with Elie Wiesel in attendance.

The first-floor Holocaust exhibition is located next to the auditorium, the main entrance hall, information and membership desks, a coatroom, a gift shop, and a library.