By David Bark
SAN DIEGO — There is no doubt that 2023 will be remembered as a year of many tragedies, much sadness, and incredible challenges. Our commitment at the Jewish Federation of San Diego has been to keep you informed and we will continue to be your trusted source for information
This Shabbat, however, I want to focus on what fills me with pride about our organization and the Jewish community of San Diego we serve., as well as what I dream and hope will be a much better 2024.
First and foremost, I am incredibly proud of our Federation staff. Our CommUNITY Trip to Israel in May was just one example of what happens when people are dedicated to their work, passionate about our goals, and motivated to make Jewish life here and around the world more meaningful and “fun.” The over 200 people who joined that mission can certainly attest that it was the trip of a lifetime. That does not happen without great planning and coordinating with multiple players, vendors and most important: All of us making the journey.
Federation also has an amazing Board of Directors who give their time and treasure to support our staff and enable them to do so much of this needed work. This board has an incredible depth of talent and represents the diversity of our community, which allows us to be creative with our planning while making sure everyone feels included. Our diversity is our strength, and I feel proud, humbled, and most fortunate to serve as Chair.
This year we strengthen our bond and partnership with Sha’ar HaNegev, focusing on “people-to-people” relationships as the best means to connect our two Jewish communities. The Gesher Program, for example, connected professionals from Sha’ar HaNegev and San Diego and encouraged them to find ways to bring us closer together. And they did so with remarkable success. We continue to develop these relationships today and will long into the future.
Here at home, Federation continues to increase its commitment and investment in the security of our San Diego Jewish community. We determined the need was great enough to have a dedicated security director and the national infrastructure with Secure Communities Network – which we now have and thank God we do.
One of the things I am most proud of is Federation’s role as the convenor of our community. Our staff, led by Heidi Gantwerk, understand that while there are times to lead (which we have on countless occasions throughout the year), being a good leader also means being a good partner. I have never seen so much cooperation and harmony within our community, and this is because we all understand that we are stronger and better together.
Finally, what I am most grateful for from past year is simple: All of you. Our Federation board and staff know full well that without the support of our incredible San Diego Jewish community, nothing happens. So, thank you for all you have done in 2023 (and before). We look forward to working with you – and for you – in the coming years.
Let us pray that in 2024 we all witness: The defeat of evil; civility restored to our universities; a rise in Jewish pride and celebrations; and the beginning of rebuilding of Sha’ar HaNegev. And I wish that each and every one of us experience moments of joy, laughter, and love – individually and together.
*
David Bark chairs the board of the Jewish Federation of San Diego.