Welcome to the November 2025 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.

Coming Together in Remembrance and Strength 

On October 9, more than 1,300 community members gathered at The Sound in Del Mar to mark two years since the attacks of October 7. Across generations and backgrounds, our community stood together to honor those lost, support survivors, and find strength in unity. The evening featured a moving performance by Project Heroes, whose music and storytelling wove remembrance with hope, lighting a path forward through shared grief and enduring courage. The commemoration was made possible in partnership with the Leichtag Foundation, the Lawrence Family JCC, the Israeli-American Council, and the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego, affirming our collective resilience and the deep bonds that connect us in San Diego, in Israel, and across the global Jewish family. Click here to view the photo gallery from the October 7 Commemoration.

Empowering the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders 

Jewish San Diego’s commitment to nurturing confident, connected young leaders came to life this fall. Five Student to Student Teen Ambassadors delivered their first presentation to the San Diego Unified School District’s Equity Department. By sharing what it means to be Jewish and opening the door for future classroom presentations, they build understanding and connection among their peers. That same spirit of leadership inspired the launch of the Peter and Elaine Chortek BRIDGE Initiative, a five-year commitment from the Chortek Weisman family to strengthen Jewish identity, leadership, and global connection among teens. Rooted in the Chorteks’ legacy of humility, pride, and tikkun olam, the BRIDGE Initiative ensures the next generation of Jewish San Diegans grows into leaders guided by purpose, resilience, and community. Click here to learn more about the BRIDGE Initiative and how Federation is engaging teens in Jewish life. 

Four Journeys, One Global Jewish Family 

This fall, Jewish San Diego’s global presence reached new heights, with four Federation missions traveling to Cuba, Mexico City, and Israel. Together, more than 40 participants experienced Jewish life abroad and returned home inspired, connected, and proud. That impact extended to our Honeymoon Israel San Diego community as well, with seven couples exploring sites like Masada and volunteering in Be’er Sheva as they deepened their connections to Israel and to one another. As Heidi Gantwerk shared, “There really is nothing like a Federation mission. Each trip brought the groups closer together and reinforced our deep ties to Jews everywhere.” From sharing Shabbat in Havana to dancing on the beaches of Tel Aviv, each journey reflected the power of Jewish peoplehood and the enduring bonds that unite us across the globe. Click here to read more about our global Jewish journeys and explore photos and reflections from participants.

Women Leading with Purpose in Mexico City 

The Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute Cohort 5 traveled to Mexico City, where they explored one of Latin America’s most vibrant Jewish communities while strengthening their own leadership journey. “Immersing ourselves in Mexico’s Jewish community deepened my sense of belonging and reminded me of the beauty in our shared traditions,” shared participant Stacey Wallach. The trip left participants inspired to carry forward the lessons of connection, confidence, and community leadership. Click here to learn more about the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute and how to join a future cohort.

Giborim and Winds of Change: Building Community Across an Ocean 

San Diego’s Giborim cohort just returned from an unforgettable week in Israel, learning, engaging, and strengthening the bond between our community and our partners in Sha’ar HaNegev’s Winds of Change program. From meaningful moments in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to powerful conversations in Sha’ar HaNegev, the group experienced firsthand what it means to build community across an ocean. They shared meals, stories, and the kind of encounters that turn partnership into family. “Jewish professional life is inextricably tied to Jewish community—a desire and drive to support those around you seems, to me, central to both,” shared participant Riley Martinez. “That is something I felt before this trip, but it was solidified in Sha’ar HaNegev.” Visit our social media pages (Instagram & Facebook) to see photos and highlights from Giborim and Winds of Change.

Finding Resilience and Renewal in Cuba 

A Road Less Traveled: Men’s Mission to Cuba offered participants a powerful look at a Jewish community small in size but immense in resilience. “Amid economic crisis, there is art in every corner and music in the air,” said Michael Rabkin, Chief Development Officer. “The Jewish community refuses to give up, even if there is barely a glimmer of hope.” Participants met local Jewish leaders, delivered much-needed medicine and supplies, and witnessed the determination of a community working tirelessly to sustain Jewish life. “I saw a Cuba broken in many ways—but also a people who are kind, resilient, and full of heart,” shared participant John Erickson. If you would like to travel with us or explore Cuba—or any other destination on a future Federation Mission—click here to visit our upcoming missions page.

Federation Leadership at the GA: Voices of Impact and Vision 

Earlier this week, a Federation delegation joined thousands of Jewish leaders from across North America at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Washington, D.C. The gathering addressed the defining challenges of this time— rebuilding Israel, countering antisemitism, and strengthening Jewish life. President & CEO Heidi Gantwerk represented San Diego by moderating a conversation about navigating antisemitism in today’s complex political landscape. By showing up at this scale, Jewish San Diego strengthened its presence on the national stage, amplifying our community‘s values and demonstrating the impact we make when we lead together.