Dear Friends,

Since Israel's founding, Federation has been a powerful supporter of the Jewish state. Often that has meant providing financial support and investment. It has meant many Federation trips to Israel, including our incredible CommUNITY Trip this past May, not to mention the thousands of young people who have traveled to Israel with Federation support. It has meant a 25-year partnership and friendship with our sister region of Sha'ar HaNegev. And it has meant creating deep personal connections with the land and the people of Israel. And sometimes, that means bringing Israel to San Diego. Our Shinshinim program, which brings young Israelis to San Diego for a year of service prior to their time in the army, is one of the most important ways we build bridges between San Diego and Israel.

Over the past year, our community has hosted nine exceptional young Israeli emissaries through our Shinshinim program. These remarkable teens have dedicated their time and energy to serving in various local Jewish agencies, sharing their knowledge, experiences, and passion for Israel with people of all ages. They have become integral parts of our community, fostering connections and offering unique perspectives on Israeli culture and society.

Last Tuesday, we gathered to bid a heartfelt farewell to our departing Shinshinim. The event was a true testament to the profound impact they've made during their time here. I was moved to see so many community members coming to say goodbye and to hear these thoughtful, articulate 19-year-olds share the tremendous impact this year made on their lives, the new traditions they are taking home, the new friends and families they gained, and the memories they will cherish forever. And I was equally moved to hear from the agencies and the host families about the profound impact these young people have made on San Diego and their own families.

This year was a year of tremendous growth for the Shinshinim program in San Diego. From four Shinshinim in 2022 to nine this past year, who volunteered in 16 local agencies, schools, synagogues, and organizations, touching over 3,000 individuals and building lifelong connections with the more than 30 families who hosted them.

And we keep growing! Last week we welcomed TEN new Shinshinim, who will be volunteering in 20 different organizations throughout San Diego. Yinnon, Adi, Shay, Danielle, Ofri, Noya, Yarden, Keren, Gal & Noam are excited to take over the important role of bringing authentic, vibrant, relational Israel experiences to our community and continuing to strengthen the bridge between San Diegans and our homeland.  

The Shinshinim program embodies our commitment to strengthening the bond between our San Diego community and Israel. Through their tireless efforts, these young emissaries offer us a window into the diverse fabric of Israeli society, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared values and heritage. I am confident that the impact will resonate for years to come.

As we welcome the new group of Shinshinim to San Diego, I encourage you to embrace them warmly and engage with them in meaningful ways. Their presence among us profoundly enriches our community, and I am confident that this year will be filled with countless moments of learning, connection, and growth.

Stay safe and dry this weekend. Shabbat Shalom,

Heidi Gantwerk
President & Chief Executive Officer