By Heidi Gantwerk
President & CEO, San Diego Jewish Federation
SAN DIEGO — In these challenging times, it is imperative that we stand together, ensuring the safety of our Jewish institutions and supporting Jews in need – both locally and across the globe. Today, I bring you updates on two major initiatives that have been fueled by San Diego’s generosity and philanthropic spirit: enhancing community security and supporting relief efforts in our Israeli sister region, Sha’ar HaNegev.
First, let’s address the issue of security. As threats against Jewish spaces persist, our Federation has been unwavering in its commitment to fortify the safety of San Diego’s Jewish institutions. Over the past few months, we’ve undertaken significant measures to bolster security measures, with your steadfast support driving these efforts.
One notable achievement is the completion of our second cohort of the Jewish Community Security Institute, a comprehensive program designed to equip Jewish institutional leaders and their organizations with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance safety protocols. Through sessions led by local and national experts, participants gained insights into cybersecurity, crisis communications, and operational strategies.
Additionally, our “Security Spring Training” initiative saw nearly 300 individuals engage in vital training sessions across different locations in San Diego. Led by our Community Security Director, Bill Ganley, these sessions delved into strategies for countering active threats and providing emergency medical assistance to “stop the bleed,” ensuring that our community members are well-prepared to respond effectively in crisis situations.
Recent federal funding through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program has also opened new avenues for enhancing security infrastructure. Our Federation has been instrumental in facilitating assessments and guiding institutions through the grant application process, further bolstering our community’s collective resilience against potential threats.
Now, turning our attention to Israel, where our efforts continue to make a profound impact. Thanks to San Diego’s generosity since the tragic events of October 7, we’ve raised nearly $9 million. To date, $1.25 million have been directed toward the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) Israel Emergency Fund. These funds have been pivotal in supporting lifeline services, medical and trauma relief, economic recovery initiatives, and community resilience programs across the Jewish state.
And because of our more than 25 years of partnership, our commitment to Sha’ar HaNegev extends beyond immediate relief efforts as they work to “rehabilitate the soul” of the region. We’ve already deployed $2.65 million to address a myriad of needs, from establishing educational facilities and providing psychosocial support to facilitating youth activities and renovating essential infrastructure.
Looking ahead, we’re focused on long-term rehabilitation and community-building initiatives in the region. This includes tailored trauma response programs for different age groups and communities, the construction of an International Resilience Village, and support for economic development projects aimed at fostering investment and entrepreneurship in the Western Negev.
Plans also are underway to bring more delegations from Sha’ar HaNegev to San Diego, similar to the group of 120 high school juniors and seniors along with 20 staff members who joined us in February through a major partnership with San Diego Jewish Academy. This was the first time many of the students had seen each other since being evacuated from their kibbutzim. The trip provided the students much needed respite from the stress of their daily lives, in addition to allowing them to appreciate the depth of the bonds which connect Jewish communities in the diaspora with Israelis.
None of this would be possible without your compassion and generosity. San Diego has been instrumental in easing the burden and pain of our brothers and sisters in Israel, reaffirming the enduring bonds that unite us as a global Jewish community. And for that, we are eternally grateful.
As we continue our collective journey toward resilience and renewal, let us draw strength from our shared values and commitment to supporting one another.
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As President & CEO of Jewish Federation of San Diego, Heidi Gantwerk oversees the nearly 90-year-old nonprofit in its mission to broaden and deepen engagement in Jewish life, strengthen Jewish identity, foster dynamic connections with Israel, and care for all Jews in need. Federation also serves as a primary convener of the San Diego Jewish community – mobilizing the community’s resources, leaders, and organizations to address the community’s most critical needs, creating profound impact locally, in Israel, and around the world. To learn more, visit jewishinsandiego.org.