Points of Pride: All Made Possible By You
03/24/2025
Welcome to the March 2025 edition of “Points of Pride,” an exclusive update for Jewish Federation of San Diego’s most dedicated supporters.
Whether you are donating your time, talent, or treasure, you make this work possible with your ongoing generosity, and we are eternally grateful for your support. Thank you for helping us make an impact as we seek to strengthen our San Diego Jewish community for generations to come. If you would like to know more about any of the programs or updates below, we invite you to contact Lorraine Fisher, Director of Development, at [email protected] or 858-737-7130.
PFWLI’s Mexico City Immersive Experience
At the end of January, a group of 17 women from Cohort 4 of the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute traveled to Mexico City for an immersive leadership experience, exploring what it means to lead with strength, purpose, and impact. They met with inspiring female leaders, including the founder of WomPower, a JDC Entwine initiative, and visited historic sites such as the Justo Sierra and Mount Sinai Synagogues, the Anthropology Museum, and the Frida Kahlo House. Each moment reinforced the importance of resilience, responsibility, and action in leadership. This transformative experience deepened their connection to the global Jewish community and strengthened a sisterhood committed to shaping the future together. To view more photos from their journey, click here.
Jewish Youth & Teen Wellness Summit
In February, the 2nd Annual Jewish Youth & Teen Wellness Summit brought together teens, educators, and community leaders for meaningful conversations on youth mental wellness and resilience. Federation’s Peer Leader Fellowship teens shared findings from their research with over 200 of their San Diego peers, shedding light on the challenges young people face and how our community can better support them. Made possible by the Chortek Weisman Family Foundation and in partnership with Moving Traditions, BeWell, and Jewish Family Service, this gathering reinforced the importance of equipping teens with the tools to navigate mental health, embrace their identity, and lead with confidence. Supporting the well-being of Jewish youth requires ongoing action, and together, we are ensuring every teen feels heard, valued, and empowered. Learn more about our efforts to support teen resilience here.
Standing Together: A Community Response to Antisemitism
Also in February, more than 400 people gathered for Standing Together: A Community Response to Antisemitism, a powerful symposium Federation presented in partnership with AJC San Diego. Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, attendees gained the tools to challenge misinformation, foster allyship, and create inclusive spaces. A dedicated Teen Track empowered high school students to embrace their identity and lead with confidence. For many, the day was a reminder that fighting antisemitism requires more than awareness—it demands action. People from diverse backgrounds united to learn, share, and take a stand, reinforcing that confronting hate is a collective responsibility. Together, we’re building a stronger, united community to confront hate and foster resilience. View here more photos from this meaningful afternoon.
Lion of Judah Luncheon
On March 6, more than 100 of San Diego’s Lions of Judah came together for an afternoon of connection, inspiration, and impact during our annual Lion of Judah Luncheon. With multiple generations in the room—mothers and daughters, aunts and nieces—this gathering was a testament to the strength of these women’s leadership and their enduring legacy of giving. We were also honored to hear from Georgia Hunter, award-winning author of We Were the Lucky Ones, who shared her remarkable journey of uncovering her family’s Holocaust story and the responsibility she felt to bring it to light. Her powerful message underscored the importance of remembering our past, sharing our stories, and ensuring that the lessons of history shape a stronger future. This is what it means to be a Lion. When women lead, they build, uplift, and transform their communities. Their impact will carry forward for generations to come. Click here to view more photos from this gathering.
Skatedakah: Purim on Wheels
Last week, more than 40 young Jewish adults gathered at Ringer’s Roller Rink for a Purim celebration that blended community, culture, and giving. Through events like these, Federation is creating meaningful entry points for young adults to engage in Jewish life, fostering a sense of connection while reinforcing the values of giving and responsibility. Beyond the neon lights and throwback beats, Skatedakah carried the true spirit of Purim—matanot l’evyonim (gifts to those in need). Attendees also brought with them donations for Jewish Family Service’s Hand Up Food Pantry to help support those facing food insecurity. Jewish young adults are seeking ways to connect, celebrate, and make a difference, and Federation is meeting them where they are—through engaging, community-driven experiences that strengthen Jewish identity and responsibility. Learn more about our work with San Diego’s Jewish young adults (NextGen).
Federation Welcomes New Leadership
Federation is proud to welcome two new members to our senior leadership team: Michael Rabkin as Chief Development Officer and David Fuhriman as Chief Financial Officer. Michael brings extensive experience in Jewish communal leadership and philanthropy, having successfully led organizations in fundraising and community engagement. David joins us with a strong background in nonprofit finance, strategic planning, and operational leadership. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for strengthening Jewish life will be instrumental in advancing our mission to foster a more vibrant and connected Jewish community in San Diego and beyond. Click here to view our community’s warm welcome of our two newest leaders.
