Full disclosure, we were very nervous about hosting our first fundraiser in 10 years. This evening represented more than a fun party. It was a chance to highlight our intentional design around user experience that cultivates meaningful connections and belonging – basically the work we do every day for our students. And you know what?

It was amazing! Our community had a blast receiving the Hillel of San Diego treatment from the moment they walked in.

One of my favorite parts of the Back to School Bash was that everything was always with our next generation in mind. We didn’t rent a ballroom, we repainted our Melvin Garb Hillel Center. We didn’t hire an auctioneer, I ran the paddle raise (which was terrifying but ultimately so inspiring) so that everything went back to our purpose – caring for our next generation.

Our community saw how we utilize philanthropy with a clear mission focus of serving 4,000 students with wrap-around holistic care. They experienced our commitment to innovative excellence. And they felt how our students feel, because Hillel is home.

All the details, from the student impact stories in the bathroom stalls to the drinks named after our programs, all the way to how the room was set up for conversation and fun. Nothing happened by coincidence. It was highly calculated intentionality around user experience. At the Bash, you got a home. You got a community. You got wrap-around holistic care that centered YOUR experience.

Because that’s our brand at Hillel of San Diego.

And if that’s not enough, you got to meet some of the remarkable students you support everyday. Learn about YOUR impact when you watch the short (we promise, it’s only 3 minutes) video we shared at the event.

It’s really all about our future, and our community felt that at our Back to School Bash.

You can check out more photos from the Bash here and make sure to follow us on Instagram @Hillelsd to learn more about the work you are helping make possible.

AND whether your FOMO (fear of missing out) is high from missing the Bash or you are still beaming from having the best time ever, I want to invite you to our next Jewish Networking Hub (JNH) event on November 3rd, where we’ll be talking about all things AI with experts. You can register here.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Shabbat Shalom, 
Karen

P.S. If you are ready to jump in and support students, please consider joining us with a gift to Hillel. Right now, we are already seeing more students more often and could use your support. You can donate here.