By Barrett Holman Leak
SAN DIEGO — Although the San Diego Harbor breeze was chilly at the Rady Shell in downtown San Diego, the hearts were warm and the generosity was on fire at the annual Jewish Family Service Heart & Soul Gala. More than 500 community leaders, philanthropists and dedicated supporters of JFS sparkled with purpose and compassion Saturday night. With the help of Ernest Rady, they amassed a record-breaking charitable total as well as honoring the organization’s outgoing leader and welcoming its incoming CEO.
Hundreds of community leaders, philanthropists, and dedicated supporters gathered to celebrate JFS’s vital work and honor those who champion its mission of building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient San Diego.
The evening unfolded at the iconic alabaster clamshell venue, with delicious cocktails, mocktails, sodas, and juices. Waiters served trays of sushi, sliders, and other hors d’oeuvres, helping to elevate the mood even higher in the early evening sunshine, as guests connected. Later, everyone made their way closer to the performance stage where they found their seats at opulently decorated tables sparkling in royal blue and gold. Cozy fleece-lined blankets on each chair enhanced the elegant décor. Tables were adorned with porcelain plates, glassware, and vases of lilies and bright yellow roses, and tulips.
The atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie deepened with the soulful Voice of the City Choir, which is composed of unhoused San Diegans. The Ben Mallare Events and Entertainment provided music and entertainment, from big band sounds to modern pop, jazz and rhythm and blues, drawing guests onto the dance floor throughout the evening.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria helped introduce the evening, thanking JFS for its assistance in securing and operating the imminent H Barracks safe parking lot across from San Diego International Airport. The facility will offer 190 places and wraparound services for unhoused people living in their cars.
Gala Chairs Marie Raftery and Dr. Robert Rubenstein led the tribute to the outgoing JFS CEO, Michael Hopkins, which was followed by a visual presentation. Susanna & Michael Flaster and Karen & Jeff Silberman were also recognized for their generosity that has made so many JFS programs possible. Others in the community, such as the Leichtag Foundation, and Irwin Jacobs, were thanked for their commitment and continued dedication to JFS and the Jewish community in San Diego.
The evening was filled with highlights and recognition of individuals and organizations whose exceptional dedication and contributions have significantly advanced JFS’s ability to serve the community. Their commitment to social justice, their unwavering support for vulnerable populations, and their embodiment of JFS’s core values resonated deeply with all in attendance.
Finally, incoming CEO Dana Toppel, who has worked as the JFS Chief Operating Officer since 2015, was formally welcomed and celebrated. It smoothly completed the transition from Michael Hopkin’s guidance to Dana Toppel’s leadership.
The program also showcased the breadth and depth of JFS’s services. Through compelling stories about volunteers and testimonials from people served by JFS, guests gained a deeper understanding of the impact of JFS’s programs, which range from providing food and shelter to supporting seniors, empowering individuals with disabilities, and offering mental health services. The narratives shared underscored the critical role JFS plays in addressing some of the most pressing social challenges facing the San Diego community.
The fundraising portion of the evening, held before the main meal was served, was met with enthusiastic generosity. Participants raised $750,000 which was matched by Ernest Rady of American Assets Trust. Rady is the name behind such institutions as Rady Children’s Hospital and Saturday night’s venue, the Rady Shell. The Honorary Chair (along with his wife Evelyn) humorously and persuasively helped bring the evening’s fundraising total to $1.5 million. That figure will rise once contributions that were submitted before and after the evening are added into the total. The collective outpouring of support demonstrated the community’s strong belief in JFS’s mission and its commitment to ensuring that vital resources are available to those in need.
Beyond the formal program, the annual JFS Heart & Soul Gala provided a valuable opportunity for networking and connection. Attendees from diverse backgrounds came together, united by their shared values and their desire to make a positive impact on their community. The energy at the Rady Shell was palpable, reflecting a collective determination to build a more just and equitable society.
The JFS Heart & Soul Gala on April 26 was not just a fundraising event; it was a powerful affirmation of the strength and compassion of the San Diego community. The funds raised will undoubtedly enable JFS to continue and expand its vital work, providing a lifeline of support to countless individuals and families in the year ahead. The “heart and soul” of the organization, so evident throughout the evening, will continue to drive its mission forward, making San Diego a better place for all.
Examples of JFS Programs and Services:
Food Assistance: Providing food through pantries, meal delivery programs, and assistance with CalFresh applications.
Housing Services: Offering emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Senior Services: Providing in-home care, transportation, social activities, and case management to help seniors live independently and with dignity.
Disability Services: Offering employment support, independent living skills training, and social and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities.
Family Support: Offering parenting workshops, domestic violence services, and support for at-risk youth.
Refugee and Immigrant Services: Providing resettlement assistance, legal services, and support for individuals and families seeking refuge in San Diego.
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Barrett Holman Leak is a freelance writer based in San Diego.