Donor Profiles
The Jewish Community Federation is proud of its generous donors who help make the world a better place. Each of the profiles below tells the story of a donor’s personal philanthropic imperative, and how giving through the federation enriches the donor’s own life, as well as sustains the Jewish community.  

  • Enriching the vitality of the community
    Rachel* recognizes the ongoing need for a centralized Jewish funding source to ensure that the institutions and services she has helped cultivate are able to grow and change.
     
  • Continuing a legacy of service
    Following in the footsteps of their own parents and grandparents, Cathy and Jim have passed on to their children "the sense of what it means to give back to the community, as well as a sense of stewardship."
     
  • Sharing pride in Jewish heritage
    Kelly,* a Jewish philanthropist for decades, recently saw how her Jewish values have taken root in the next generation when her granddaughter called to request funds for Israel.
     
  • The expert’s Expert
    With many years as head of a non-profit organization, Jim* chose to direct his gift to JCEF's unrestricted fund which pools assets for providing aid in times of emergency and strategic funding for high-potential community opportunities.  
     
  • Preserving art and education
    Anita and Ron have been major Federation donors and volunteers for over 40 years, and continue to focus their attention on arts and education that sustain Jewish life.
     
  • Bridging the past, present and future
    Elaine's* endowed gift on the 50th anniversary of Women's Alliance was a way to honor all the women who have done work in the Jewish community and all those who will do work in the future.
     
  • The best of both worlds
    What's important to John* is that, through his planned giving, he can provide for tomorrow's community needs while also taking care of a few of his own.
     
  • Inspiring a future generation
    Jewish education and youth are twin commitments for Peter and Susan,* who feel they "have a responsibility, not only because we are able to give, but because of the direction we were given by our parents. We are committed to continue their legacy."
     
  • Reflecting social consciousness
    With strong and varied social concerns, Eva* was overwhelmed by her desire to reach everywhere and everyone; but expert assistance from Endowment Fund staff "directed me toward effective, creative programs that best represent my concerns." 
     
  • Giving as a way of life
    Alex and Karen* view the supporting foundation they have established as one of the ways their three sons will ultimately manifest their concerns for the less fortunate.
     
    *Please note that some names have been altered to protect the privacy of the donors.
Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
100 years of giving...