I want to talk about vision. A vision we, at Hillel of San Diego, have for the future community. We envision a world where young people can feel proud and safe to share their Jewish identity. We envision a world where college students graduate and make choices informed by their Jewishness. A world where the next generation is deeply committed to building and sustaining Jewish community.
And, right now, we live in a world where it feels like it is getting harder to be Jewish, not easier. But at Hillel, we are caring for thousands of young Jewish community members who are going to right the path we are on. I feel better knowing the power to change the world is in their hands because of what I get to see first hand.
At Hillel just this week–
- I saw students singing and dancing at Shabbat. Joy in Jewish celebration.
- I saw a student share her trauma as a way to protect others. Judaism providing strength.
- I saw two students supporting each other through a hard time. Jewish community at its best.
- I saw another student stand up and tell the Head of a University Department about antisemitism she experienced and how it was not ok. Jewish pride.
- I saw a group of students studying Torah and connecting it to their own lives. Jewish learning.
I saw all of this and more at Hillel because that’s the community we create. Jews caring about other Jews and for the world around them.
And that’s where you come in. This vision starts with YOU. With your generosity to Hillel. Every dollar you invest goes directly to helping the next generation become better Jewish citizens. Your investment literally and figuratively feeds our future. I say investment because that’s what it is- it’s your way of saying, “Yes, I care about what Jewish life looks like far into the future.”
Thank you to everyone who has already stepped up. It means so much.
Giving Tuesday is coming up on November 29th but you don’t have to wait to change a life. This is your chance to invest in our collective Jewish future.
And oh what a bright future it is!
