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About Jewish Federation of San Diego

Since 1936, we have been the central address for the organized Jewish community in San Diego.

Our Mission

Jewish Federation of San Diego is the central address for collective Jewish responsibility in our community. We raise and allocate funds, advocate on behalf of Jewish needs locally and globally, and build a stronger, more connected community.

We are guided by the Jewish values of tzedakah (justice and charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and kehillah (community). Our work ensures that every Jew who needs help can find it, and that Jewish life in San Diego remains vibrant for generations to come.

1936
Year founded
$4.95M+
To Israel & global Jewry this year
38
Professional staff, up from 17 five years ago
90
Years serving San Diego in 2026
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Our History

Nearly 90 years of building Jewish community in San Diego.

Federation Founded

Jewish Federation of San Diego is established as the central fundraising body for the local Jewish community, then known as the Jewish Welfare Fund.

1936
1948

Supporting Israel's Founding

Federation mobilizes the San Diego Jewish community to raise emergency funds for the newly established State of Israel, beginning a lifelong bond.

Campus Opens in Kearny Mesa

The Jewish community campus at Murphy Canyon Road opens, bringing Federation offices and partner agencies under one roof.

1977
1999

Sha'ar HaNegev Partnership

Federation establishes its sister-city relationship with Sha'ar HaNegev, Israel — a partnership that deepens over the next 25+ years.

"County" Dropped from Name

Jewish Federation of San Diego officially shortens its name, reflecting a more modern, city-forward identity for the organization.

2020s

Board Leadership

Our volunteer board of directors guides Federation's strategic direction and ensures fiduciary responsibility.

JS

Jeff Schindler

Board Chair

DB

David Bark

Immediate Past Board Chair

LK

Larry Katz

Treasurer

MM

Meryl Maneker

Secretary

HG

Heidi Gantwerk

President & CEO

+27

Full Board & Executive Committee

View full board roster →

Senior Staff

Our professional team executes the Federation's mission every day.

HG

Heidi Gantwerk

Executive
President & CEO
DF

David Fuhriman

Finance
Chief Financial Officer
CL

Carly Ezell Lobenstein

Operations
Chief Operating Officer
MR

Michael Rabkin

Development
Chief Development Officer
DS

Darren Schwartz

Planning & Strategy
Chief Planning & Strategy Officer
View Full Staff Directory

Financial Transparency

Jewish Federation of San Diego is committed to full financial transparency. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we publish our audited financial statements, IRS Form 990, and annual report every year.

We are a 4-star rated Charity Navigator organization, the highest rating awarded, and hold the GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency, reflecting our commitment to accountability, transparency, and effective use of donor funds.

2025 Impact Report
Digital edition on Issuu
Read →
IRS Form 990 (FY2025)
PDF · Public disclosure copy
Download →
Audited Financial Statement FY2025
PDF · Independent audit
Download →

View all impact & financial reports

Charity Navigator — 4 StarsHighest possible rating for financial health, accountability & transparency
GuideStar Platinum SealTop level of nonprofit transparency on Candid's platform
🤝
BBB Accredited CharityMeets all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability

EIN / Tax ID Number

95-1319015

Jewish Federation of San Diego is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.

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Your support funds the programs, partnerships, and people that keep Jewish life thriving in San Diego and around the world.

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