Saturday, November 9, 2024

Jewish Federation’s Impact in a Challenging Year

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Meeting this Moment

Jewish Federation’s Impact in a Challenging Year

In a year marked by unprecedented challenges, Jewish Federation of San Diego has demonstrated what it truly means to meet the moment. From the conflict in Israel to the alarming rise in antisemitism both globally and here at home, the resilience of the Jewish people has been put to the test. But through the unwavering support and generosity of the San Diego Jewish community, Federation has been able to rise to these challenges and continue its mission to foster thriving Jewish life in San Diego, Israel, and beyond.

“As we look back on the past year, we recognize the critical juncture we find ourselves in,” Federation President & CEO Heidi Gantwerk shared with GB Magazine. “For many Jews in San Diego, the past 12 months tested our mental, spiritual, and emotional strength. Yet, in the face of adversity, we witnessed a powerful resurgence of Jewish identity and an increased desire for community connection. These factors contributed to our Federation’s most successful fundraising year to date, a testament to the trust and faith our community places in us.”

Federation’s 2024 Annual Campaign raised a record-breaking $8.4 million, an incredible 175% increase over the previous year. Including contributions to its Israel Emergency Fund – which raised more than $9 million in a few short weeks to support relief efforts across the Jewish state in the wake of the horrific events of October 7, 2023 – plus grant revenues and directed gifts, Federation secured a total of over $22 million in the fiscal year of July 2023 – June 2024.

Embodying its new campaign theme, “Meeting this Moment,” Federation is focused on addressing immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term community resilience. This forward-looking approach involves not only emergency response but also proactive initiatives to combat antisemitism, strengthen Jewish identity, and deepen communal connections. As Federation sets its sights on its next fiscal year, several transformative initiatives are poised to make a lasting impact.

Among these is a groundbreaking approach to Holocaust education, supported by the largest single donation in Federation’s history. Soon, a dynamic mobile classroom will travel across San Diego County, bringing modern, immersive Holocaust education to learners of all ages and backgrounds. This project is more than just a tribute to history; it is a powerful, living commitment to the fight against hate. This month’s cover photo poignantly captures this mission: Gantwerk, alongside Federation Board Chair David Bark and Campaign Co-Chairs Sonia Israel and Jeff Schindler, stand before a somber Holocaust memorial etched with the names of concentration camps – a stark reminder of the importance of memory, education, and action.

Federation is also expanding its programming to ensure being Jewish is fun and joyful through meaningful experiences. A new teen travel initiative will soon take San Diego’s Jewish youth to Israel, offering them transformative journeys that will deepen their Jewish identities and inspire their future community engagement. The organization is also launching a San Diego chapter of Student to Student, a program designed to foster understanding and break down barriers by connecting Jewish teen ambassadors with non-Jewish high school students across San Diego. Through personal storytelling and open dialogue, the goal is to demystify Judaism, challenge stereotypes, and empower students to interrupt antisemitic remarks in their everyday lives.

As Federation prepares for the year ahead, it remains unwavering in its mission to foster thriving Jewish life, protect the community, and ensure that the lessons of history inform the actions of today. In meeting this moment, Jewish Federation of San Diego stands ready to secure a vibrant, resilient future for the Jewish community – both locally and globally. With the continued generosity of its supporters, Federation is not just responding to the challenges of today but building a legacy of hope and strength for generations to come.

Learn more and get involved at jewishinsandiego.org.

Danitza Villanueva
Danitza Villanueva
Danitza Villanueva was born in San Diego but spent her youth with her family in Tijuana and grew up on both sides of the border. She has transferred her unique insight of cross-border culture, trends and philanthropy to her business and community interests. Danitza is the first woman from her family to graduate from college. She has two degrees, one from Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Fashion Marketing, and a second from San Diego Christian College in Communications. After starting GB Magazine with Esteban Villanueva in 2007, she has gone on to win awards and recognition from the community for her support of helping raise millions of dollars for non-profit organizations. Currently she resides in East County in San Diego where she and her husband Esteban run DAESVI Publishing, home to GB Magazine, among several other publications.

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