Strengthening Global Jewish Connections Through Partnership2Gether 

(JUNE 19, 2026) -- This week, I had the privilege of attending the Partnership2Gether (P2G) Council of Communities meeting in Indianapolis alongside Lisa Epstein, JFSA’s Director of Community Relations, and Harry Levy, past Chair of Partnership2Gether and current Chair of the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community. The gathering brought together representatives from P2G, a program of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio that builds meaningful people-to-people relationships across the global Jewish community. 

Our Western Galilee Partnership connects 17 U.S. communities, Israel’s Western Galilee, and Budapest, Hungary. Through educational, cultural, medical, and community initiatives, we strengthen Jewish identity and foster lasting relationships. San Antonio has been a leader in the partnership and our community benefits tremendously from its programs and relationships.  

Several important themes emerged from our discussions. Our partners in the Western Galilee continue to endure tremendous stress due to the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. Children have experienced significant disruptions to their education, businesses are struggling, and daily life is often punctuated by sirens and trips to bomb shelters. They deeply appreciate the outreach, friendship, and support they receive from partnership communities in the United States. 

We were also reminded that Jewish Peoplehood is strengthened through personal relationships. The bonds formed among Jews in San Antonio, Budapest, and Israel create connections that transcend geography and reinforce our shared heritage and future. The partnership reminds us that ‘we’re all in this together’ – always have been, always will be. 

Partnership2Gether is not simply a Federation program—it is an opportunity for the entire San Antonio Jewish community. We have tremendous potential to broaden local involvement and engagement. Tourism to the Western Galilee has declined dramatically, and our partners need visitors. JFSA intends to send a mission for the Partnership’s 30th Anniversary Celebration in September 2027. Stay tuned to hear more as this program develops. 

Get to know our Partnership: Engage in our ongoing programming, such as the Academic Lecture Series, the P2G Book Club, or the Medical Solidarity Mission, If you would like to learn more or get involved, please contact me. 

Building our Mishkan Together

(JUNE 12, 2026) -- Rachel Stern, incoming CEO of Shalom Austin and a proud native San Antonian, left our Annual Meeting attendees reflecting on a simple but profound question: What can we build together?

Drawing on the story of the Mishkan, the sacred dwelling place built by the Israelites in the wilderness, Rachel reminded us that our tradition’s greatest accomplishments were never the work of a single leader or organization. They were the result of a community united around a shared purpose, with each person contributing their unique talents, resources, and passion.

Rachel shared how Austin’s Jewish community embraced that spirit through an integrated model built on common vision and collective responsibility. While every community is different, the principles she outlined resonate deeply: clarity of purpose, collaboration, investment in people, commitment to excellence, and a culture of belonging.

Her message was particularly timely for our community. We are blessed with dedicated volunteers, talented professionals, strong agencies, and generous supporters. The question before us is not whether we have the capacity to strengthen Jewish life in San Antonio. We do.

The challenge is whether we are willing to think beyond individual organizations and priorities and ask what is best for the collective good of our community.

I was especially struck by Rachel’s observation that sacred things are built when people choose shared responsibility over individual ownership. That lesson feels as relevant today as it was in the wilderness.

Our future will be shaped not by what any one of us can accomplish alone, but by what we choose to build together.

Read her full speech here.

Why Attend the Annual Meeting?

(JUNE 5, 2026) -- Our Annual Meeting is one of the most important gatherings of the year because it gives us the opportunity to celebrate, learn, and demonstrate the strength of our community's unity.

This Sunday, June 7 at 2:00 p.m., we will recognize and thank James Rosenblatt for his outstanding two years of service as Board Chair while welcoming our new officers: Amy Benedikt, M.D., Board Chair; Andy Cohen, Chair-Elect; Laura Ehrenberg-Chesler, VP Philanthropy; Marc Schnall, Secretary; Elaine Kovner, Treasurer; and Joe Patrick, VP Allocations. We will also express our gratitude to departing board members Lauren Stanley, Immediate Past Board Chair, and Leslie Selig-Byrd for their dedicated service. We will also thank Rabbi Chaim Block for his dedicated service as this year’s clergy representative and welcome Rabbi Jonathan Falco from Temple Beth-El, who will serve on the board this year.

We will celebrate two exceptional young leaders: Hannah Cramer Fisher, recipient of the Joel A. Toubin Community Relations Award, and Noah Barshop, recipient of the Sylvia F. and Harry Sugarman Young Leadership Award. We will also graduate our 2025–2026 J-LEV cohort of outstanding emerging leaders who are helping shape the future of our community.

Finally, we will hear from keynote speaker Rachel Stern, Incoming CEO of Shalom Austin, who will share insights into the highly innovative, unified model that is helping strengthen Jewish life in Austin.

I hope you'll join us as we celebrate our accomplishments, learn together, and reaffirm our shared commitment to our community. Register below for location information.

The Need is Great. The Opportunity is Greater.

(MAY 29, 2026) -- The Jewish Federation of San Antonio recently completed some of the most important—and difficult—processes of the year: our allocations and grant distribution cycle.

This was my first time participating in the process as CEO, and I came away with a deeper appreciation for both the extraordinary work happening across our community and the growing needs facing Jewish San Antonio.

Each year, Federation distributes funds from our Annual Campaign and endowment resources to support local Jewish agencies, congregations, and scholarships for children attending Jewish summer camp, Israel study programs, and higher education.

This year, local agencies requested more than $730,000 in funding. We were able to allocate approximately $500,000, while utilizing the balance to fund Federation-driven efforts to secure the community, fight antisemitism, provide programs that convene the community to create joyful Jewish life, and support our Israeli brothers and sisters. Scholarship requests for children and families also far exceeded the roughly $70,000 available to distribute.

Behind every request is a child hoping to attend camp, a student seeking a connection to Israel, a family needing support, or an agency working tirelessly to strengthen Jewish life in San Antonio.

The reality is simple: the need is growing faster than our current resources.

That is why we are laser focused this year on increasing our community’s collective ability to care for one another through our Annual Campaign. Our 2026 campaign theme says it best: “Community…Powered by Your Generosity.”

We are bringing back Super Sunday, hosting parlor meetings, engaging more volunteers, and above all, thanking the donors whose generosity keeps Jewish life vibrant in our city.

We hope our community answers the call.

The Power of Women's Philanthropy

(MAY 21, 2026) -- Our annual campaign theme this year is Community…Powered by Your Generosity—and that spirit was on full display this week at our annual Lions of Judah Luncheon.

The Lions give generously of their time, leadership, and resources to help ensure our community can create joyful Jewish life, secure ourselves and fight antisemitism, care for Jews and others in need, and build meaningful connections to Israel and global Jewry.

This year, we were especially proud to welcome six new Lions of Judah into this remarkable sisterhood of philanthropy and leadership.

We were also honored to recognize Elaine Cohen and her daughter-in-law, Kathryn Cohen—two powerhouses who have helped build and sustain the Jewish institutions that keep our traditions alive in San Antonio. Their example sets the bar high.

Each year, the Lions of Judah help raise approximately 40% of our annual campaign. That is extraordinary. And while not everyone can give at the Lion level, everyone can give—and everyone is needed.

As we prepare to kick off the campaign later this summer, I hope each of us will consider what we can do to strengthen vibrant Jewish life in San Antonio. Our community is powered by generosity—and it starts with all of us.

Yasher koach to our incredible volunteers Rhonda Gurinsky, Chair of Women’s Philanthropy, and Ilene Franco and Kay Stein, Lions of Judah Co-Chairs, along with staff members Jessica Diric and Jodi Marion, who worked tirelessly to create such a meaningful and memorable event.

Standing Up for Our Community

(MAY 15, 2026) -- This week, the Jewish Federation of San Antonio issued a public statement condemning the spread of antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories in public discourse. A few people asked why we felt compelled to speak out. My answer is simple: when hateful rhetoric targets the Jewish community, the Federation has both the responsibility and the obligation to respond clearly and confidently.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Federation cannot “participate in or intervene in… any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.” We take that responsibility seriously. Our statement was not about a candidate or a race. It was about drawing a firm line against rhetoric rooted in antisemitism, conspiracy, and division.

Leadership matters in moments like these.

The Jewish community has learned throughout history that silence in the face of hate carries consequences. The Federation exists not only to build Jewish life, care for those in need, support Israel, and strengthen community — but also to stand up proudly and unapologetically for the Jewish people when necessary.

As we head to the polls, let’s remember what truly makes San Antonio strong. We are a city built on relationships, respect, decency, and trust among people of different backgrounds and beliefs. That’s the San Antonio way. Hate weakens communities. Standing together strengthens them.

Go Spurs Go -- Teamwork Matters

(MAY 8, 2026) -- Right now, the San Antonio Spurs are once again reminding our city what great teamwork looks like. The talent on the court matters, but Spurs basketball has always been about more than individual players. It is about trust, unselfishness, preparation, and every person contributing to something larger than themselves. The best teams move together, communicate constantly, and make each other better.

That same spirit drives the work of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio.

Every day, our departments and partner agencies collaborate to strengthen Jewish life across our community. Our Jewish Community Relations Council and the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio work hand-in-hand to fight antisemitism through education, outreach, relationship-building, and public programming. Our security initiatives coordinate across synagogues, schools, and agencies to help keep our community safe. Programs like PJ Library, YAD, JLEV, and our Israel engagement efforts succeed because dedicated teams work together behind the scenes.

No one department can accomplish this mission alone. It takes shared vision, communication, and people willing to support one another in service of the broader community.

That is what great organizations do. That is what great teams do.

In San Antonio, we are fortunate to see that example on the basketball court—and inside our Jewish community every single day.

Go Spurs Go!

Security is Not Optional: The Time to Act Is Now

(MAY 1, 2026) --On May 4, the Jewish Federation of San Antonio will welcome Edward “Tedsan” Ridgley as our new Community Security Director—a critical step forward at a time when the safety of Jewish life cannot be taken for granted.

Tedsan joins us after a distinguished 30+ year career with the FBI, where he led counterterrorism, intelligence, and crisis response efforts, and prior to that with SAPD. He now brings that expertise home to San Antonio with a clear and urgent mission: to help protect our community in an increasingly volatile environment.

Jewish communities across the country are facing real and growing threats. The pace and intensity of antisemitism have changed—and we must respond accordingly.

Tedsan will serve as the central point of coordination for community security—working across our synagogues, schools, agencies, and law enforcement to build a unified, proactive defense. His work will strengthen threat detection, emergency preparedness, intelligence sharing, and training—ensuring we are not simply reacting to incidents but actively working to prevent them. We are grateful to Lisa Epstein for building the foundation that allows us to take this step. Now, we must build on it—with urgency and resolve.

This position is made possible through a $500,000, three-year LiveSecure grant from the Jewish Federations of North America, in partnership with the Secure Community Network. But let’s be clear: this is just the starting point.

Building a truly secure community requires sustained investment. The grant must be matched—and the need goes beyond it.

Your support is not just important - it is essential.

If we want a Jewish community that is safe, strong, and able to thrive, we must invest in it—now.

Because security is not optional. It is the foundation for everything else we do.

If We Don't Tell Our Story, Who Will?

(APRIL 24, 2026) -- If we don’t tell our story, someone else will—and not always accurately. At a moment when antisemitism is rising and misinformation spreads quickly, the most powerful response we have is education.

Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), observed each May, is a national recognition of the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans. It’s also an opportunity—and a responsibility—to ensure that our story is understood, not distorted.

This year, the Jewish Federation of San Antonio is leading from the front. Through our Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio (HMMSA) and Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), we are bringing JAHM resources into K–12 schools across our region—equipping educators and students with thoughtful, age-appropriate materials that deepen understanding of Jewish identity, traditions, and the diverse experiences of our people.

We’re also expanding that impact beyond the classroom. Our HMMSA and JCRC Teams are hosting a webinar designed to help educators and community members effectively use these resources and engage in meaningful conversations about Jewish life and antisemitism. The Federation’s “Jewish Texans” posters will also be featured throughout the month by the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission.

And we’re gaining national attention for our education programs. The Jewish Federations of North America recently highlighted our Hanukkah program, Beyond the Dreidel, as a model for Federations across the country.

This is what leadership looks like: proactively shaping understanding, pride, and connection--and preventing antisemitism before it starts.

Standing Together in the Yoms

(APRIL 17, 2026) -- Monday night at Congregation Agudas Achim, something powerful happened.

Our community filled the sanctuary for Yom HaShoah. Jews of every stripe—young and old, across congregations and backgrounds—came together not just to remember, but to stand as one. It was solemn. It was moving. And it was a reminder of what we are capable of when we show up—for each other, and for our shared story.

But the “Yoms” are not just about memory. They are about continuity.

In Israel, the transition from Yom HaShoah to Yom HaZikaron to Yom HaAtzmaut is emotional whiplash—moving from the depths of loss to the heights of independence in a matter of days. This year, that emotional weight is even heavier.

In our partnership region of the Western Galilee, families are living under constant threat. Sirens are not just symbolic—they are real. In some cases, people have struggled to distinguish between the memorial sirens of Yom HaShoah and the rocket warnings that send them running to bunkers. Schools are closed. Daily life is disrupted. Across Israel, many of the Yom ceremonies and celebrations are cancelled. And yet, they endure with extraordinary resilience.

Which brings me to us.

On April 22, our community will gather on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community to mark Yom HaZikaron and celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut. This is more than a program. It is a statement.

A statement that San Antonio shows up.

A statement that we are connected—to the Holy Land, to each other, and to something bigger than ourselves.

A statement that even from thousands of miles away, we stand shoulder to shoulder with our Israeli brothers and sisters.

So here’s the ask—simple and direct:

Be there.

Do what many Israelis cannot do. Fill the room again. Bring your family. Bring your friends. Stand in solidarity with a community that doesn’t have the luxury of stepping away from these moments.

Because if Monday night showed us anything, it’s this: when we come together, it matters.

PJ Library: Building Connection, One Family at a Time

(APRIL 10, 2026) If we’re serious about building a vibrant Jewish future in San Antonio, it starts with young families. That’s exactly what PJ Library is doing — every single day.

As a program of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, PJ Library is reaching hundreds of families across our community, many of whom are not otherwise connected to Jewish life. That matters. These aren’t just book deliveries—they are entry points.

Through monthly books, holiday programs, and family experiences, PJ Library is helping parents create Jewish moments at home—bedtime stories, Shabbat rituals, and conversations about identity. Just as important, it’s building relationships. Families are meeting each other, forming community, and beginning to see themselves as part of something larger.

The data is clear: PJ Library is one of our most effective tools for engaging the next generation early and meaningfully.

This work is led with passion and focus by our outstanding program manager, Perry Aguilar, who continues to expand both the reach and the impact of PJ Library in San Antonio.

If you’re interested in becoming a PJ Library supporter, I’d welcome the conversation.

Building What Comes Next -- Together

(MARCH 27, 2026) -- Over the past several months, four of our community’s core agencies—the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, the JCC, the Jewish Campus, and Jewish Family Service—took an important step together. We’ve engaged a nationally recognized expert on U.S. Jewish communities to help us take a hard, honest look at how we operate today—and how we might operate better tomorrow. 

This is a courageous and momentous step—four independent agencies choosing to step back, look honestly at ourselves, and ask what it will take to build a stronger future together. 

At its core, this work is what the business world calls our “operating model”—how we run day-to-day: how decisions are made, how resources are used, and how we deliver programs and services to our community. 

We asked a simple but important question: Are we structured in the best possible way to serve Jewish San Antonio—not just for today, but for the future? 

Let’s be honest—there are real challenges. Financial sustainability is not guaranteed. Needs are growing and changing. Security is essential—and expensive. And too often, we are not as coordinated or efficient as we could be. At the same time, our agencies are doing meaningful, mission-driven work every single day. 

Over the next six months, the consultant will gather data, conduct interviews with stakeholders, and work closely with lay and professional leadership to explore a range of possibilities—from stronger coordination to deeper integration. The outcome will be a clear recommendation and a practical roadmap for what comes next. 

This is about ensuring our community is built to last—and built to matter. It’s about using our collective resources wisely, reaching more people, and strengthening Jewish life in San Antonio in ways we simply cannot do alone. 

We don’t have the luxury of standing still. The future of this community will be shaped by the choices we make now—and whether we’re willing to make them together.

L’Chaim and Laughter: Choosing Joy, Even Now 

(MARCH 20, 2026) -- This past Tuesday evening, our community gathered for L’Chaim and Laughter—a night filled with connection, resilience, and plenty of laughter. It came at a moment when many of us were still processing not only the terrorist attack outside a synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan, but also the ongoing war involving Israel, Iran, and the United States—where Israelis and American service members are in harm’s way. 

Like Jewish communities everywhere, we feel these moments deeply. 

And that made the choice to gather even more meaningful. 

What stood out most was who was in the room: Jews from across our community—young adults in their 20s to seniors well into their 80s, representing every corner of San Antonio and every stream of Jewish life. It was more than an event; it was a glimpse of what we are building together—a united, vibrant Jewish community. 

Jewish tradition teaches that joy is not reserved for easy times. It is part of how we endure difficult ones. Laughter is not an escape from reality—it is a response to it. 

At the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, that belief comes to life through the programs we lead, the connections we foster, and the security we help ensure so Jewish life can be lived openly and proudly. 

Thank you to our incredible Federation team for bringing this evening to life. 

Because our answer to hate is clear: we show up, together—and we live Jewishly, out loud.

Why Federation Still Matters

(MARCH 13, 2026) Recently, I’ve heard a few common refrains in my community conversations. Some people say they prefer to direct their philanthropy themselves. Others assume Federation donations mostly fund overhead. And occasionally someone says they simply don’t trust Federation. 

Let’s address those concerns directly. 

First, the cost of supporting our administrative functions is under 15%. The vast majority of every dollar raised supports Jewish life—about 80% of dollars sustains Jewish life here in San Antonio and about 20% cares for our Israeli brothers and sisters. 

Second, Federation is not simply a pass-through for funding. Yes, the Annual Campaign assists essential agencies that support Jewish education, families, seniors, and those in need. But Federation also leads and manages programs that actively build Jewish life—PJ Library connecting young families, Chai High engaging teens, events that bring Jews of all stripes together, like Yom Limmud, J-LEV cultivating leadership, and the Jewish Community Relations Council ensuring our community has a voice in civic life and in the fight against antisemitism, not to mention the Holocaust Memorial Museum, a crown jewel of our community. 

Philanthropy is changing. Many donors want to direct their gifts to specific programs they care about. That’s welcome—and Federation makes that possible.  

But Jewish communities are strongest when they invest both in individual programs and in the shared institutions that sustain them.  

Federation isn't just part of the past; it is an essential investment in the future of Jewish Life in San Antonio. If we, collectively as a Jewish Community do not make these investments, who will? 

Investing in People and Possibilities 

(MARCH 6, 2026) -- When people think about Federation funding, they often picture grants to Jewish organizations. That work remains essential. But another important part of Federation’s role is investing directly in individuals and new ideas that strengthen Jewish life in San Antonio. 

Each year, through the Jewish Federation of San Antonio’s Community Grants Program, we provide support that helps community members pursue meaningful Jewish experiences, education, and leadership opportunities. 

This year, the program helped children attend Jewish overnight camps, where friendships are formed and Jewish identity deepens. It supported teens participating in Israel and leadership programs, experiences that help shape the next generation of Jewish leaders. Scholarships also helped local college students continue their education, while additional support went to individuals pursuing rabbinical studies, investing in the future of Jewish learning and leadership. 

Federation also provides micro-grants to community innovators, helping launch new programs that expand Jewish engagement in San Antonio. 

In other words, Federation’s work is not only about supporting institutions. It is also about investing in people and possibilities. 

Applications for the next round of grants are now open, with a deadline of April 6. Learn more and apply at: https://www.jfsatx.org/apply 

Because the future of Jewish San Antonio isn’t built only by institutions. 

It’s built by people. 

A PERSONAL NOTE: 

My family and I are deeply grateful for the outpouring of kindness we received following the passing of my mother, Margie. 

Your calls, messages, meals, and quiet expressions of care meant more than we can fully express. In a difficult time, you reminded us what it truly means to be surrounded by community. 

Thank you for holding our family so close during this time. We are profoundly grateful. 

Your Gift at Work 

(FEBRUARY 27, 2026) -- One of the most important questions I hear is simple: “Where does my Federation gift actually go?” 

Here’s the answer: it goes to support Jewish life—and Jewish people—in San Antonio, especially in moments of real need. 

A powerful example is Jewish Family Service (JFS), one of the partner agencies supported through your annual campaign dollars. 

With Federation support, JFS provides no-cost mental health counseling for members of our Jewish community. This year, 70% of clients reported measurable improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms based on standardized clinical assessments. 

JFS also provides a vital Safety Net, serving individuals and families facing crisis. In just six months, JFS served 142 clients, delivering 353 services such as assistance with food, rent, utilities, transportation, and in-home support for older adults. Importantly, 43 Jewish clients were served—exceeding their annual goal. 

In one case, a Jewish client reached out for help with a utility bill and was also connected to Medicaid, SNAP benefits, and in-home care. In another, a Holocaust survivor received coordinated support to remain safe and cared for. 

This is what Federation does: we turn community generosity into real Jewish impact. We care for Jews and others in need. 

Your gift matters. Thank you. 

Building Tomorrow: Welcoming Michael Ellison

(FEBRUARY 20, 2026) I’m pleased to share exciting news for our community: Michael Ellison has been selected as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies San Antonio (FJPSA) and started in the role this week.

Many people know the Jewish Federation of San Antonio as the organization that raises and allocates annual campaign dollars to support Jewish life locally and in Israel. What is less widely understood is that our community Foundation—FJPSA—is a branch of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, and plays a critical complementary role.

In short: the Federation campaign helps meet today’s needs. The Foundation helps secure tomorrow’s future.

Michael will be an important part of my leadership team, and we will work closely together to align our community’s long-term philanthropic growth with the Federation’s mission and priorities.

Most recently, Michael served as CEO of the Jewish Community Foundation of the West, where under his leadership the Foundation’s net assets grew from $11 million to $44 million in four years. Prior to his nonprofit leadership, Michael held senior executive roles in global business, including at NCR, where he helped build international platforms across Europe and Asia-Pacific, driving significant revenue growth from the ground up.

Please join me in welcoming Michael to San Antonio. We are excited for the vision, momentum, and lasting impact he will help build for generations to come.

Craig Berkowitch

President and CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Bringing the Ruach Home

(FEBRUARY 13, 2026) I’m writing from Phoenix, where I just wrapped up a powerful 2.5-day conference with nearly 1,000 Jewish Federation professionals from across North America, organized by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). 

I was also proud to attend alongside our outstanding Director of Marketing and Communications, Katia Diamante, who represented our community with professionalism, creativity, and heart. 

I honestly wish I could bottle up the enthusiasm, ruach, and insight that’s been pouring out of this gathering and bring it straight back to San Antonio. As a newcomer to the Federation professional world, this experience was both energizing and eye-opening. 

JFNA is an extraordinary resource—not just for Federations, but for Jewish communities around the world. It’s a vast network of professionals sharing ideas, strategies, and best practices to help communities grow stronger and more connected. 

One point of discussion that we wrestled with at the conference was: What does a flourishing Jewish community look like? JFNA defines it as one that is healthy, safe, caring, welcoming, engaged and educated, active, and connected. 

By many of those measures, San Antonio is doing a remarkable job—we are truly hitting it out of the park in several areas. And at the same time, we have real work to do in others. 

I’d love to hear from you: What’s working in our community? Where do we need to improve? What would make Jewish life in San Antonio stronger, more vibrant, and more connected? 

Your perspective matters—and I’m listening. 

Craig Berkowitch

President and CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

At a Crossroads—and a Choice 

As you may have heard, the Board of Directors of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio has appointed me as President and CEO (no longer interim). I’m grateful for the Board’s confidence and deeply committed to the work ahead. 

Over the past six months—serving first as Interim CEO and now in this role permanently—I’ve had the opportunity to listen, learn, and witness both the extraordinary potential of Jewish San Antonio and the real challenges we face. Our community is strong and caring, yet we are navigating demographic shifts, changing patterns of affiliation, and fatigue with institutions that have not always felt accessible or responsive. 

At the same time, rising antisemitism and violence against Jews and Jewish institutions across the United States have added a sobering reality. Security—once largely invisible—has become an essential and unavoidable part of sustaining Jewish life. 

Together, these realities place our community at a crossroads. 

Jewish life is a chain stretching back millennia, strengthened one generation at a time. Each generation is responsible for its link—by investing in Jewish life where we live. 

Renewal will take time, resources, and effort. But the choice before us is clear: allow our community to weaken, or make the investments needed to ensure a vibrant Jewish future in San Antonio. 

The future will not be decided by chance. It will be decided by choice. 

Our 2026 Annual Campaign Chairs

JANUARY 30, 2026 - Every successful Federation campaign reflects the strength of the people leading it. When respected leaders bring others together around shared values and shared responsibility, real impact follows. I’m pleased to announce Jordana Pazin and Jim Barshop as the 2026 Campaign Cabinet Chairs of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio. 

Jewish philanthropy through the Federation Campaign is essential because it allows us to act collectively—meeting today’s needs while intentionally investing in a vibrant Jewish future for our community. 

The Campaign Cabinet plays a critical role in advancing this work. It brings together leaders from Women’s Philanthropy, Men’s Philanthropy, Young Adult Division (YAD), and the Maimonides Society to support the Federation’s four pillars and ensure our campaign reflects the full breadth of Jewish San Antonio. 

Dr. Jordana Pazin has served our community for more than a decade through leadership roles at the Federation, Rodfei Sholom Synagogue, and Hadassah. A clinical psychologist with a long-standing private practice, she brings both strategic insight and deep empathy to this role. As Jordana shares, “I chose to serve because I believe in the work the Federation does to strengthen our community by creating opportunities that simply wouldn’t exist otherwise. Supporting the campaign is supporting our shared future.” 

Jim Barshop has been involved in Jewish communal life since his teenage years, serving as JCC Board Chair, a longtime Federation and synagogue leader, and a dedicated campaign solicitor. With decades in real estate and nonprofit development, Jim brings wisdom and urgency. In his words, “We’re on the brink of a reimagined and reinvigorated Jewish community. Now more than ever, we need to come together, support the Federation, and do our part.” 

Please join me in thanking Jordana and Jim—and in answering the call they are helping to lead. 

Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

J-LEV: Jewish Leadership, Engagement, and Values 

(JANUARY 23, 2026) J-LEV—short for Jewish Leadership, Engagement, and Values—is the Jewish Federation of San Antonio’s leadership development program for next-generation professionals ready to step more fully into communal leadership. Lev, the Hebrew word for “heart,” reflects the program’s aim: developing leaders who combine skill, responsibility, and care for Jewish San Antonio. 

This cohort-based experience blends interactive learning grounded in Jewish values and wisdom with practical leadership development. Participants strengthen core leadership skills, deepen their understanding of San Antonio’s Jewish agencies and institutions, and explore meaningful lay leadership opportunities across our community. 

J-LEV is intentionally relational. Participants build strong peer connections while engaging directly with agency professionals, rabbis, and lay leaders. They are challenged to connect who they are—their values, experiences, and aspirations—to how they lead and serve, helping to sustain and amplify joyful Jewish life in San Antonio. 

J-LEV is proudly supported by the Alamo Brandeis B'nai B'rith Lodge.  

To sustain J-LEV, we need additional community investment. Individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring a participant or program can contact J-LEV Program Facilitator Jill Jacobs.

Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Young Adults. Jewishly. Together. 

JANUARY 16, 2026 -- If Jewish community is a team sport, the JFSA’s Young Adult Division (YAD) is playing fast, smart, and with heart—and actually enjoying it. 

YAD is where young Jewish adults in San Antonio are building real connections through experiences that feel natural, welcoming, and fun. Think Shabbat dinners that turn strangers into friends, HeBrews happy hours that blend Jewish identity with local flavor, holiday gatherings that make traditions feel alive (not dusty), and a Cookbook Club that proves Jewish learning can involve food and zero homework (Arguably the best kind of learning.). 

This momentum doesn’t happen on its own. Huge credit goes to YAD Chair Eleanor Gossen and Vice Chair, Sam Fisher, whose leadership, energy, and follow-through have helped YAD flourish. They are backed by an outstanding committee—Hannah Cramer, Ross Halfant, Moshe Krumholz, and Zoe Stanley—who bring creativity, commitment, and a “let’s make this happen” attitude to everything they do. 

YAD also serves as a natural on-ramp to deeper leadership, connecting participants to our Young Professional Leadership Program (J-LEV)—a pathway for those ready to move from engagement to impact. 

If you want to learn more, get involved, or help spread the word, contact Jessica Diric, Manager of Annual Campaign and Affinity Groups. 

YAD is proof that Jewish life doesn’t renew itself by accident. It grows because people show up—and these young adults are doing exactly that. 

Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

A New Year. A Clearer Picture. Your Impact. 

JANUARY 9, 2026 -- The start of a new year is a moment for clarity—about what matters and how we care for our community. 

One thing we hear often is that many people don’t fully understand how the Jewish Federation of San Antonio creates impact or how community dollars are spent. So, here’s the straightforward answer. 

In FY25, more than $1.38 million was allocated across San Antonio and Israel. These funds support early childhood education, seniors, individuals with special needs, Jewish camps and scholarships, Hillel, Holocaust education, community relations and security, Jewish Family Service’s safety net, PJ Library, young adult engagement, and essential Jewish infrastructure—locally and globally. 

Federation also serves as the community’s first responder in times of crisis. Through the Israel Crisis Fund, San Antonio’s generosity provided trauma care, mental-health services, support for displaced families, lone soldiers, bereaved families, and emergency response efforts across Israel—when speed and accountability mattered most. 

As the year begins, we share this with gratitude—and honesty: there is still time to give to the 2025 Annual Campaign, but time is running out. Your gift helps ensure these investments continue. 

A strong community is built on trust, transparency, and participation. 

This year, we’re recommitting to all three. 

Craig Berkowitch
Interim Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Behind the Scenes, Standing Guard

DECEMBER 19, 2025

Early Sunday morning, as news broke of the horrific Chanukah terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, the shock rippled far beyond Australia. For the Jewish community in San Antonio, it landed close to home.

I was pulling into the H-E-B Alon parking lot when my phone began lighting up. Within minutes, Lisa Epstein, our JCRC Director, Katia Diamante, our Director of Marketing and Communications, and I were fully mobilized. There was no playbook—only urgency.

Our first priority was safety. We moved quickly to secure local Chanukah events, ensuring law enforcement had complete visibility into celebrations across our community. The FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety, SAPD, and county law enforcement were all engaged. Protection was coordinated quietly, efficiently, and without fanfare—exactly how it should be.

At the same time, we shaped a clear media response. We mourned the loss of our brothers and sisters. We affirmed our resolve. And we made sure the broader community understood a simple truth: what happens an ocean away has a direct impact on Jewish families right here in San Antonio.

If you saw reporters standing in front of menorahs, or heard newscasters quoting messages of unity and resilience from the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, that didn’t happen by accident. Our message was carried across every local TV station, Texas Public Radio, and the San Antonio Express-News.

You don’t often see this work. But it’s one more way your Federation shows up—protecting, advocating, and standing with our community when it matters most.

Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Standing Up. Speaking Out. Keeping Our Kids Safe. 

DECEMBER 4, 2025

This Business Case is Personal

NOVEMBER 21, 2025

I’ve spent most of my life in the business world. Leading a nonprofit and asking for support is new—and a bit outside my comfort zone. But what drives me is personal. When our family moved to San Antonio more than 20 years ago, we were embraced by this community with warmth and kindness. That embrace, from every corner of Jewish life, gave us roots, purpose, and a sense of belonging. Every Jewish family who moves here should feel that same connection. Every Jew who calls San Antonio home should know they’re part of a community rooted in generations of Jewish vitality—with a future that’s just as bright as its past.

We thrive by investing in the four pillars of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio —amplifying joyful Jewish life, caring for Jews and others in need, mobilizing to meet needs across Israel, and securing our community and fighting antisemitism. This year, we’ve celebrated Jewish holidays with overflowing rooms and joyful noise. We’ve ensured seniors were not alone, supported mental health access, provided scholarships, and answered emergencies in Israel with compassion and speed. We’ve learned and laughed together. We’ve educated thousands through our Holocaust Museum and stood shoulder to shoulder with allies in the fight against hate.

This is the business of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio—and it only happens because of you. Our community’s strength is not measured by the size of any one gift, but by the shared investment to build a Jewish future that is safe, vibrant, and enduring—for every generation.

If you’ve already made your pledge, thank you. If not, now is the moment. The needs are urgent. The work continues. And your support makes it possible.

Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Securing the Community. Fighting Antisemitism.

NOVEMBER 14, 2025 

Another pillar of our mission at the Jewish Federation of San Antonio (JFSA) is Securing the Community, Fighting Antisemitism. In a world where antisemitism is on the rise, JFSA remains unwavering in our commitment to protecting the community and telling our truth.  

Our Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) is often our first line of defense—speaking up when antisemitism shows up, proactively educating government and school leaders, building coalitions with allies, and making sure our community’s safety and dignity are never an afterthought.

Our Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio is another cornerstone of this work. It educates thousands of students and adults each year, combatting hate through Holocaust education and remembrance. In today’s climate, teaching the dangers of indifference and the consequences of hatred has never been more vital. 

These two departments were selected by the Texas Holocaust Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission to implement an innovative program where they introduce Jewish values and culture to schoolchildren through partnerships with teachers, schools, parents, and public libraries. See their new resource page and their inaugural Hanukkah program. 

The JFSA team also worked to secure $500,000 grant from the Jewish Federations of North America, to hire a full-time Community Security Coordinator. This new role will dramatically expand our ability to proactively protect synagogues, schools, agencies, and community events across San Antonio. 

Securing our Jewish future in San Antonio requires vigilance—and investment. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps us protect what matters most. Join us in standing strong, standing proud, and standing together. 

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Mobilizing to Meet Needs Across Israel

NOVEMBER 7, 2025

As the war in Gaza begins to wane, the long road to recovery across Israel has only just begun. The trauma of October 7, the intense impact of two long years of war, the ongoing threat of terrorism, and the massive internal displacement of Israeli families—especially in the North—will require years of physical and emotional healing. 

The Jewish Federation of San Antonio, through the generosity of our community, raised over $2.7 million in emergency funds for non-profits in Israel. These dollars were swiftly deployed to more than 40 partner organizations providing trauma support, emergency care, housing, and counseling. This includes investments in the Galilee Medical Center’s trauma room, mental health hotlines like Eran and Sahar, and grassroots organizations helping Nova festival victims and displaced families. 

We are especially proud of our long-standing Partnership2Gether relationship with the Western Galilee, where many of these programs are based—offering counseling, scholarships, job retraining, and medical support. In fact, a San Antonio delegation of community members attended the Partnership’s Hatikva Summit just last week to assess the current needs on-the-ground to help this special community recover.   

Your past gifts have already changed lives. As we pivot from emergency response to long-term recovery, your continued support is vital. Please consider making a gift to our Annual Campaign to sustain this sacred work—here, in Israel, always. 

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Caring for Jews and Others in Need 

OCTOBER 31, 2025

One of the core pillars of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio is Caring for Jews and Others in Need. Since stepping into this role, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand what that care looks like in action — and it's deeply moving. 

I’ve met volunteers who hand-deliver Shabbat challah to seniors living alone through SAJSS. I’ve heard the stories of case managers at Jewish Family Service who walk alongside aging clients with dignity and compassion, often for the rest of their lives. I’ve seen children with disabilities fully included in JCC camps, thanks to targeted support from the Federation. 

Because of your generosity, we help older adults access medical care, provide interest-free loans through the Hebrew Free Loan Association, and award scholarships to deserving students preparing for college and seminary. We uphold sacred tradition by supporting our community’s Chevra Kadisha to care for loved ones at life’s end. 

This isn’t charity. It’s chesed. It’s tzedek. It’s the fabric of Jewish communal life. 

If you’ve ever wondered whether your gift makes a difference — it does. Please consider making your contribution to our Annual Campaign today. 

Together, we care. 

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Amplifying Joyful Jewish Life

OCTOBER 24, 2025

If you were at Monday night’s Commemoration for the Hostages, you witnessed something profoundly Jewish — dancing. Even in the shadow of pain, we danced. A day later, we gathered again for the Women of Valor Luncheon, honoring 12 extraordinary women whose leadership and compassion light our community with pride. And this weekend, the Holocaust Memorial Museum will host its first-ever Family Reunion Weekend honoring survivors and four generations of their families. These moments remind us that joy and resilience are inseparable parts of Jewish life. 

At the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, Amplifying Joyful Jewish Life is one of our four foundational pillars. It’s how we nurture Jewish identity and connection — from our youngest through PJ Library, to summer camps and the Starr Jewish Day School, to Chai High, Hillel, the Young Adult Division, J-LEV, and Birthright. We support families through the JCC, and our seniors through San Antonio Jewish Senior Services. 

Our support extends across every expression of Judaism — from keeping kosher through the Vaad Ha’Kashruth to communitywide programs like Yom Limmud that bring Jews of every background together. 

Our work depends on one simple truth: when we give, we grow. Your support of the Annual Campaign ensures that Jewish life in San Antonio remains vibrant, inclusive, and strong — today and for generations to come. 

Join us in keeping Jewish joy alive. We are Stronger Together. 

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Introducing the Four Pillars of JFSA

OCTOBER 17, 2025

In these first months as Interim CEO, I’ve been energized by conversations across our community —listening, learning, and sharing what the Jewish Federation of San Antonio does best. One of the clearest ways to describe our work is through our four pillars. These pillars represent both our mission and our impact, and you’ll begin to see them featured consistently in our communications moving forward.

Amplifying Joyful Jewish Life

We bring together San Antonio Jews of all ages, backgrounds, and traditions—celebrating, learning, and strengthening Jewish programs like Yom Limmud, Young Adult Division (YAD), Vaad Ha’Kashruth, and PJ Library embody this pillar.

Securing the Community & Fighting Antisemitism

Through the important work of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio (HMMSA), we provide education and awareness to combat antisemitism, ensure a safer, more resilient community, and build productive relationships with our elected and law enforcement officials.

Caring for Jews and Others in Need

Scholarships, senior services, mental health support, and camp inclusion programs reflect our Jewish responsibility to care for the community’s vulnerable.

Mobilizing to Meet Needs Across Israel

We stand in partnership with Israel and Jewish communities around the world, providing relief, rebuilding support, and solidarity.

These four pillars are the supports that uphold and strengthen our mission in San Antonio. It’s what the JFSA Team does every day—ensuring that the Federation’s work, the Community’s work, remains steady, resilient, and impactful for generations to come.

Which one resonates most deeply with you?

You can support our work by contributing to our annual campaign. The 2025 Campaign ends on December 31, 2025. Your donation, whatever the size, ensures San Antonio’s Jewish Community remains vibrant and thriving. Just click on the link below. Thank you.

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Sweet and Bitter: Sukkot, Hostages, and Hope

OCTOBER 10, 2025

The Jewish Federation of San Antonio is horrified by the antisemitic terrorist attack on the Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur—the holiest day of our year. Once again, we are confronted with violence against Jews, simply for gathering in prayer. We mourn the victims, pray for the healing of the injured, and join with the global Jewish community in saying: this hate must stop.

Moments like this underscore why security is central to our mission. Here in San Antonio, JFSA has made “Securing the Community and Fighting Antisemitism” one of our four pillars. We are proud to share that this week, we were awarded a $500,000 Live Secure Grant by Jewish Federations of North America to fund a Community Security Coordinator who will work with every synagogue, school, and agency to keep our Jewish community safe. This is in addition to the $100,000 Tepper Family Grant secured by JFSA to protect programming for Jewish young children. After the Manchester attack, we also received messages of support from Mayor Ortiz Jones and the FBI, demonstrating the strong relationships we’ve developed with the broader community through the Jewish Community Relations Council.

We grieve with our brothers and sisters in Manchester—and we recommit ourselves to building a Jewish future in San Antonio that is both secure and strong.

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

We grieve with our brothers and sisters in Manchester.

OCTOBER 3, 2025

The Jewish Federation of San Antonio is horrified by the antisemitic terrorist attack on the Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur—the holiest day of our year. Once again, we are confronted with violence against Jews, simply for gathering in prayer. We mourn the victims, pray for the healing of the injured, and join with the global Jewish community in saying: this hate must stop.

Moments like this underscore why security is central to our mission. Here in San Antonio, JFSA has made “Securing the Community and Fighting Antisemitism” one of our four pillars. We are proud to share that this week, we were awarded a $500,000 Live Secure Grant by Jewish Federations of North America to fund a Community Security Coordinator who will work with every synagogue, school, and agency to keep our Jewish community safe. This is in addition to the $100,000 Tepper Family Grant secured by JFSA to protect programming for Jewish young children. After the Manchester attack, we also received messages of support from Mayor Ortiz Jones and the FBI, demonstrating the strong relationships we’ve developed with the broader community through the Jewish Community Relations Council.

We grieve with our brothers and sisters in Manchester—and we recommit ourselves to building a Jewish future in San Antonio that is both secure and strong.

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

We Remember. We Refuse to Forget.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Two years ago, on October 7th, our hearts were shattered. The grief is still raw. The wounds are still open. And the silence surrounding those still held hostage in Gaza is deafening. Their names, their faces, their stories—still waiting to be told, still waiting to come home.

This week, we invite you to stand with us—not just in remembrance, but in resolve. The Barshop JCC, with the support of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, is hosting "Humans of October 7th", a photo exhibit that gives voice to the lives behind the headlines. These are not statistics. They are mothers, fathers, children, friends. They are us.

The exhibit will run from September 28 to October 10 in the Holzman Auditorium on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community. Come. Bring a friend. Witness. Feel. Let these images stir your heart and strengthen your commitment to never forget—and to never stop demanding justice and peace.

We remember. We mourn. We hope. And we will not stop until every hostage is home.

Craig Berkowitch

Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Choosing Unity This New Year

SEPTEMBER 19, 2025

Over the years, some in our community have stepped back from the Federation - citing politics (“too left,” “too right”), feeling unappreciated, or simply experiencing donor fatigue. I understand those frustrations; I’ve heard them firsthand while visiting with community members across San Antonio these past months.

Yet in every conversation, one theme rises above the rest: a yearning for unity and vibrant Jewish life. People long for the days when San Antonio Jews of every background, denomination, and perspective came together to celebrate Jewish pride and purpose. That was the San Antonio Jewish community my family joined nearly 25 years ago. I’ve come to see that longing for connection runs deep - especially now, as we approach the two-year anniversary of October 7, polarization at home and abroad hardens, and concerns about antisemitism and security continue to grow.

Division weakens us precisely when communal strength is most needed.

With Rosh Hashanah upon us - a season of reflection and renewal - let’s practice teshuvah not only as individuals, but collectively as a community. By turning back toward one another, we safeguard our future and honor our shared heritage. Together, we can rekindle a spirit of connection and ensure that Jewish San Antonio remains strong, welcoming, and proud for generations to come.

L'shanah Tovah U'Metukah - a Good and Sweet Year,

Craig Berkowitch Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio

Let me know what you think. Email me at CEO@jfsatx.org

Yom Limmud 2025: A Day of Learning, Joy, and Rekindled Connection

Last Sunday, more than 200 participants of every age filled the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community for Yom Limmud, and the response was extraordinary. One hundred percent of survey respondents rated the day 4 or 5 stars, with 70% giving it a perfect 5. Comments poured in: "Fabulous," "Excellent event," "Such a pleasure to spend the day with such wonderful people."

This local success reflects a broader trend. National studies show that since October 7, 31% of American Jews report being more engaged in Jewish life than before the attacks, with many seeking deeper connection and learning. Yom Limmud proves that San Antonio is part of this remarkable surge in Jewish belonging.

My heartfelt thanks to every staff member, volunteer, teacher, and participant who made this day possible. Now we look ahead: help us take Yom Limmud to the next level. Join the planning team and help shape the future of Jewish learning and unity in our city.

- Craig Berkowitch
Interim CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio