2026 Nonprofit Guide: Jewish Family Service of San Diego

Mission statement

Jewish Family Service partners with people of all backgrounds to build stable and dignified lives. Together, we create a stronger and healthier community where everyone can thrive.

Our 2026 goals

Since 1918, Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) has been a trusted community resource for people seeking support, stability, and a way to move forward. From urgent needs like food, transportation, or housing, to caring for an aging parent and helping older adults maintain their independence, JFS empowers people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds to build more stable, secure, and connected lives. Together, we are committed to helping individuals and families move forward while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.

The areas we serve

San Diego, Orange and Riverside counties

Fundraising events

Save the date for our biggest celebration of the year, the JFS Heart & Soul Gala: Rooted in Community, happening April 18, 2026. Chaired by Marie Raftery and Dr. Bob Rubenstein, our 2026 Gala will honor community leaders Jerri-Ann and Gary Jacobs and Tammy and Louis Vener at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine. Learn more at www.jfssd.org/gala

Calling all volunteers

Come change lives with us! JFS Volunteers are people with a passion for serving others and strengthening our community. From delivering meals to welcoming a new family to our community, we offer a wide range of opportunities to bring your passion to life in meaningful ways. Find an opportunity that speaks to you at www.jfssd.org/volunteer.

Donation opportunities

Together, we’re building a kinder and more compassionate San Diego where everyone can thrive. We invite you to make a meaningful impact in our community by:

• Becoming a corporate partner or event sponsor
• Joining our annual campaign as a JFS Friend of the Family
• Including JFS in your will or trust
• Donating your unwanted vehicle or property to fuel hope in our community
• Participating in a Challah Bake to provide nourishment to our neighbors experiencing hunger
• Hosting a Safe Parking Dinner for unhoused families living in their vehicles

Find out how you strengthen our community at www.jfssd.org or by contacting Josh Lipsky, Senior Director of Philanthropy, at JoshL@jfssd.org or (858) 637-3034.

ESTABLISHED 1918
8804 Balboa Avenue
San Diego, CA 92123

Phone: 858-637-3000
Website: jfssd.org

Facebook: @jewishfamilyservicesd
Instagram: @jfs_sd
LinkedIn: jewish-family-service-of-san-diego

EXECUTIVES
Dana Toppel, Chief Executive Officer
Bernadette Griggs, Chief Financial Officer
Tanya Hackel, Chief Advancement Officer
Shreya Sasaki, Chief Program & Impact Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Theresa Dupuis, Chair
Sean Joseph, Ph.D., Vice Chair
Joel Smith, 2nd Vice Chair
Ryan Goldenhar, Treasurer
Amy Corton, Secretary
Deborah Bucksbaum Maio, Advisory Officer

Barbara Bry
Lilly Cheng, Ph.D.
Randy Clark
Congresswoman Susan Davis (Ret.)
Nadia Farjood
Seth Krosner, M.D.
Meryl Maneker
Jon Nachison, Ph.D.
Rabbi Jason Nevarez
Agnes Wong Nickerson
Adam Rosenthal
Marceline Sciuto
Elliot Scott
Joel Shaps
Adam Welland

The news and editorial staffs of The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.