SDJW Staff Report
SAN DIEGO — Jewish Federation of San Diego President and CEO Heidi Gantwerk last Friday penned an emotional farewell message to the group of nine ShinShinim (young Israeli emissaries) who served with local Jewish organizations this past year, sharing their knowledge, experiences, and passion for Israel with people of all ages.
The Jewish Agency for Israel’s ShinShinim program is the “year of service program” that offers Israeli high school graduates an opportunity to delay mandatory service in the Israel Defense Forces and serve Diaspora communities for up to 10 months. The program allows communities to meet young Israeli ambassadors who perform meaningful service prior to entering the army.
Jewish Federation of San Diego’s ShinShinim partnership with The Jewish Agency “is one of the most important ways we build bridges between San Diego and Israel,” Gantwerk explained.
“These remarkable teens have dedicated their time and energy to serving in various local Jewish agencies, sharing their knowledge, experiences, and passion for Israel with people of all ages. They have become integral parts of our community, fostering connections and offering unique perspectives on Israeli culture and society,” she wrote.
On Aug. 15, the Federation held a gathering to bid a heartfelt farewell to the departing ShinShinim.
“The event was a true testament to the profound impact they’ve made during their time here,” Gantwerk wrote. “I was moved to see so many community members coming to say goodbye and to hear these thoughtful, articulate 19-year-olds share the tremendous impact this year made on their lives, the new traditions they are taking home, the new friends and families they gained, and the memories they will cherish forever. And I was equally moved to hear from the agencies and the host families about the profound impact these young people have made on San Diego and their own families.”
She continued, “This year was a year of tremendous growth for the ShinShinim program in San Diego. From four ShinShinim in 2022 to nine this past year, who volunteered in 16 local agencies, schools, synagogues, and organizations, touching over 3,000 individuals and building lifelong connections with the more than 30 families who hosted them.”
In fact, the number of ShinShinim in Jewish communities around the world has more than quadrupled over the last decade, according to The Jewish Agency.
“The Shinshinim program embodies our commitment to strengthening the bond between our San Diego community and Israel,” Gantwerk wrote. “Through their tireless efforts, these young emissaries offer us a window into the diverse fabric of Israeli society, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared values and heritage. I am confident that the impact will resonate for years to come.”