Fall 2024 Points of Pride
10/08/2024
Welcome to the Fall 2024 edition of “Points of Pride,” an inside look at Jewish Federation of San Diego’s latest accomplishments and initiatives made possible by your support. From community-building efforts to impactful programs, these highlights reflect the power of our collective contributions.
October 7th: Marking One Year
Last night, our community came together to mark one year since the tragic October 7th attacks on Israel. It was incredibly moving to witness thousands of San Diegans unite in mourning, remembrance, and solidarity. This Community Commemoration was made possible by the collaborative efforts of more than 60 community partners, led by our Federation, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, IAC San Diego, Impact Cubed, Lawrence Family JCC, StandWithUs, and the San Diego Rabbinical Association. As we continue Meeting this Moment, our work does not stop here. Together, we will persist in our efforts to bring comfort, hope, and security to those in need—today, tomorrow, and every day. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this powerful moment of reflection. View more photos from the event here.
Global Ambassador Program Trip to Budapest, Hungary
In July, a group of San Diego teens and Federation staff spent a week in Budapest, Hungary as part of our Global Ambassador Program. The teens stayed with local Jewish host families and were paired with their Hungarian peers to foster daily cultural connections and build long lasting relationships. This immersive experience deepened the teens’ understanding of Jewish life abroad, allowing them to witness firsthand the challenges and triumphs of a Jewish community outside the U.S. It also fostered lasting bonds, helping to strengthen the ties between our local community and the global Jewish network, ensuring that these young ambassadors carry forward a sense of responsibility and unity across borders. Check out this fantastic travel video to learn more.
Sha’ar HaNegev Delegations to San Diego
This July, we hosted two delegations from Sha’ar HaNegev: young adults and social workers. For the young adults, many of whom have been displaced or are returning to war-torn areas, the visit offered a much-needed break and a chance to reconnect. The social workers, who have been on the frontlines supporting those impacted by October 7, participated in healing workshops to help them recover emotionally. From cooking classes to therapeutic activities, these experiences allowed them to unwind and share laughter, creating lasting memories. By the end of their visit, they not only felt refreshed but also developed a profound sense of connection to our San Diego community, reinforcing the ties between our regions and fostering a spirit of solidarity that will endure long after their departure. To learn more of their adventures and experiences, visit our blog.
Newish & Jewish Summer Lunch in Encinitas
Our Newish & Jewish program brought together over 70 young adults for a lively lunch at The Hive in August. The event was catered toward Jewish individuals and interfaith couples in their 20s and 30s looking to engage more broadly with the Jewish community. It was inspiring to see so many community members come together to explore opportunities for involvement in San Diego’s vibrant Jewish community. Attendees not only made new connections but also forged lasting friendships with their peers. Many expressed excitement about building a solid foundation for community engagement in the future, leaving the event with a deeper sense of belonging. View more photos from the event here.
Educational Series with Israel Democracy Institute
Over the past quarter, we partnered with the Lawrence Family JCC, Impact Cubed, and the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) to provide data-driven insights on life in Israel, the diverse perspectives of its citizens, and strategies for moving forward. Our two webinars and one in-person session, featuring IDI’s president, cumulatively attracted over 300 attendees. Through these sessions, participants gained firsthand insights from Israeli experts on the challenges of the past year, a deeper understanding of the complexities at hand, and the steps being taken to build a more secure and united Israel. Learn more about IDI and its latest research insights here.
National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat
Toward the end of September, over 300 Jewish leaders from across North America gathered at the National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat in Seattle. This inspiring event strengthened connections, empowered leaders, and magnified our collective philanthropic impact, all in support of a vibrant Jewish future—both locally and globally. We’re proud to share that two of our own, Allie Hauser and Ronit Droker, played pivotal roles. Allie served as a caucus leader, and Ronit participated as a panelist on campaign day, interviewing a courageous mother whose son was tragically killed at the Nova Music Festival. We also welcomed our newest Cabinet member, Scott Schindler, who found the experience both inspiring and deeply meaningful. Learn about more about Cabinet here.
