By Darren Schwartz
SAN DIEGO — As we enter Shabbat, I invite us all to reflect on the profound importance of connection and belonging—two values at the heart of Jewish life. In a world that often feels fragmented, the sense of being part of something larger than ourselves is not only comforting, but essential. Belonging is what transforms individuals into a community. It gives our traditions life, our stories meaning, and our future hope.
Here in San Diego, home to one of the largest Jewish communities in North America, this notion of belonging is especially relevant. And yet, despite our size and vibrancy, only 11% of local Jews report feeling a strong sense of belonging to the San Diego Jewish community. This is both a sobering reality and a call to action.
That is why Federation convened the first annual Blueprint: San Diego Jewish Community Forum. It was an unprecedented gathering of professional and volunteer leaders from more than 50 local Jewish organizations. Together, we explored insights from two key studies, the San Diego PULSE Survey and the JFNA Surge Study, and considered what they mean for our community. These data-rich resources will help our leaders make informed decisions, grounded in the lived experiences and aspirations of our community members.
The studies revealed something powerful. Despite geopolitical tensions and safety concerns, more Jews are raising their hands to connect with Jewish life, while others are deepening their engagement. This is a moment of opportunity.
Throughout the day, leaders engaged in vibrant conversations, sharing challenges and exploring innovative approaches to engagement, safety, and community relations. It was a beautiful example of community in action: collaboration, learning, and mutual support. These conversations show that our San Diego Jewish community is not only resilient but poised to thrive.
But shaping the future of our community is not the sole responsibility of its leaders. In community, you get out what you put in. Each of us has a role to play:
–How can you show up for others in the community?
–How can you sharpen your situational awareness to support our collective safety?
–How can you be an ambassador and advocate for Jewish life—helping others understand who we are and what we stand for?
In the coming years, you’ll hear much more from us about connection and belonging to the San Diego Jewish community. We hope you will join us on this journey. Together, we can explore our roles as individuals, the impact of our organizations, and how each connection strengthens the broader San Diego Jewish community.
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Darren Schwartz is the chief planning and strategy officer of the Jewish Federation of San Diego.