An Unprecedented Week of Travel

Dear friends,

If you know, you know: there really is nothing like a Federation mission.  

For the past four years, we have leaned into travel as one of the most effective ways to build our own Jewish community, strengthen San Diego’s sense of “Am Yisrael,” and connect people to the essential, often lifesaving work Federation supports around the world.

Last week, we pulled off a feat that I believe must be a Federation first: four Federation missions spread out to Cuba, Mexico City, and Israel. Each trip brought the groups closer together and reinforced our deep ties to Jews everywhere.  

Our Men’s Mission to Cuba balanced the vibrancy of Cuban culture with the economic and leadership crises facing the Cuban people. The group spent time with Cuba’s small but proud Jewish community, bringing much needed medicines, financial support and other supplies.

“Against the backdrop of economic crisis, there is art in every corner and music in the air all day and night. The small Jewish community refuses to give up, even if there is barely a glimmer of hope.” – Michael Rabkin, Chief Development Officer, Jewish Federation of San Diego

“I saw a Cuba broken in many ways: broken government, broken economy, broken streets, broken buildings. But I also saw the way people are – they are good, kind, and resilient.” – John Erickson, participant 

Our Giborim, talented early career Jewish communal professionals – after nearly a year of learning and skill building together and with counterparts from Sha’ar HaNegev – traveled to Israel for an intense and jam-packed week with their new Israeli friends. From dancing on the beach in Tel Aviv to touring one of the Israeli’s homes on Kibbutz Kfar Aza as he shared his family’s experience on (and since) October 7, they built lifelong friendships and helped ensure our partnership with the region will last for a generation to come. 

“What stayed with me is the profound sense of devotion the people of Sha’ar HaNegev have for their home. It’s not just where they live – it’s where they choose to plant their roots, raise their families, and build their future, even in the face of immense challenges. Their courage and unwavering commitment moved me deeply.” – Alex Kaufman, Program Manager, Resilient & Secure Community, Jewish Federation of San Diego  

“The genuine curiosity, warmth, and sincerity that everyone brought to our group interactions profoundly moved me. In just few days, we managed to create moments that felt timeless — laughter, tears, and meaningful conversations that reminded me why I believe so deeply in people.” – Abir Tubi, Winds of Change participant, Sha’ar HaNegev 

Cohort 5 of our Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute traveled to Mexico City where there they got to know one another better while diving into Jewish life across our southern border – and enjoying a little mariachi music, amazing art, and perhaps a margarita or two along the way. This trip is part of a new, robust investment in Federation’s partnership with Mexico City’s Jewish community, which is so connected with our own. 

“Who knew how close the 20 of us could get so quickly, thanks to inspirational introductions to Mexican Jewish community leaders, whirlwind visits to historic and beautiful art and nature landmarks, and guided conversations for reflection and connection.” – Mia Kemp, participant  

Finally, our latest Honeymoon Israel trip is wrapping up and these young couples will return to San Diego with a powerful shared experience, and a new chavurah – a close knit circle of friends that will form the core of their Jewish lives.   

You can read more of these emotional reflections and see photos of these trips here, and we will be adding even more in the coming days.

I’ll say it again, there is simply nothing like a Federation mission to build community, strengthen Jewish identity, and deepen connections to our Jewish family in San Diego and across the globe. That is why I hope you will consider joining us on one of our upcoming trips, including: 

• Birthright Israel Volunteer (for ages 27-50), February 10-18, 2026 
• Momentum (for Jewish mothers), May 11–18, 2026 
• The Community Trip, May 2027

At Federation, we’re going places – literally!

Shabbat Shalom,

Heidi Gantwerk, President & CEO 

Jewish Federation of San Diego