Meet Elanit.
Elanit arrived at UCSD in her first year expecting to encounter the usual challenges – making new friends, enjoying campus life, and keeping up with their classwork.
She soon discovered that being a Jewish student had its unique challenges. She dealt with an antisemitic roommate and witnessed deeply unsettling incidents.
Elanit turned to Hillel and joined Tritons for Israel, a pro-Israel education and advocacy student club, funded and supported by Hillel. She wanted to make a difference on her campus.
“Hillel treated me like I was already a leader and a voice for Jewish students, empowering me to step into that role confidently. Their mentorship has been instrumental in my personal growth.”
Last May, Hillel turned her biggest dream into reality.
For Peace in Israel Week, we built a 20-foot by 6-foot poster, the “Wisdom Wall,” on Library Walk. We filled the wall with information debunking the most common lies about Israel.
Empowered by Hillel, I stood by the wall each day that week to answer questions and engage students in dialogue about Israel. One day, a student approached, confused after seeing the previous week’s apartheid wall filled with misinformation. I walked him through each section of our poster, answering his questions and explaining the key points. By the end, he said he now had a clearer understanding of the issue. He said our conversation motivated him to research the topic further rather than accept the first thing he encountered.”
Your support provides Elanit with the resources she needs to counter misinformation and advocate for Jewish students on her campus.
This year, I want Jewish students on my campus to celebrate our identity openly and joyously. I want to create opportunities for students to connect with their heritage and become educated about our story. Together, we’ll demonstrate that no amount of intimidation can diminish our joy or pride in being who we are.
Your care for Jewish students makes THE difference. Your support provides a safe space for Jewish students to connect, find community, and learn about their Jewish heritage and Israel.
Your generous gift creates a strong, vibrant Jewish community on campus.
JOIN THE PRESIDENTS’ CHALLENGE TODAY!
Don’t forget to make your end-of-year gift to Hillel of San Diego! Thanks to Hillel of San Diego’s current and past board presidents, all gifts up to $175,000 will be matched!
Thank you for your investment in young leaders like Elanit who are making campus better. We can’t do it without you.
P.S. The end of the calendar year is almost here…don’t wait! To help Hillel of San Diego meet the Presidents’ Challenge today, you can pledge now and send your gift by check, through your donor-advised fund, a QCD from your IRA account, or by gifting stock. Hillel of San Diego’s Tax ID# is 33-0519225, and our office address is 5717 Lindo Paseo, San Diego, CA 92115. Please contact me at lkalal@hillelsd.org or 619-764-5992 with any questions.
