2024/25 | 5784/85
Board Chair & CEO Report
As we reflect on this past year, we recognize how deeply October 7th continues to shape Jewish life in Israel and here at home. While the immediate aftermath was defined by urgency, fear, and grief, the months that followed brought renewed focus, determination, and an unwavering commitment to rebuilding lives and strengthening our community. The path forward has not been easy—but through unity, generosity, and shared purpose, we have turned resilience into action and challenge into opportunity.
Thanks to your generosity, our 2024 Annual Campaign—The Power of Together surpassed all previous records, raising $13.17 million, a 13% increase over the previous year. This extraordinary result enabled us to strategically invest, address emerging needs, and strengthen community services. It speaks volumes about the power of collective commitment.
Here at home, the sharp and troubling rise in antisemitism demanded a coordinated and robust response. Through our new Combatting Antisemitism initiative, we brought together leaders from across sectors to develop proactive strategies, build allyship, and ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish community members across the region. We also enhanced our security infrastructure, delivered training to Bitachon volunteers, and expanded our national partnerships to ensure access to real-
time intelligence and best practices. This work aligns with our strategic priority to safeguard our community and support long-term resilience.
Even amidst crisis, we remained focused on the essential work of building community. Our engagement team hosted roundtables on the needs of youth, seniors, and newcomers. On campus, we continued to support Jewish students’ mental health and well-being while expanding relevant programming. We held our first Regional Communities Conference, fostering Jewish growth across the province, and our Community Connectors created vibrant opportunities to engage Jewishly in communities throughout BC.
There were also moments of unity and celebration. From a moving Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration marking Israel’s 76th Independence Day, to welcoming the Israeli delegation to the Invictus Games, to supporting hundreds of new Israeli arrivals in BC, we created meaningful spaces for connection, pride, and solidarity during a difficult time.
The Jewish Community Foundation continued to play a vital role in securing our future. By disbursing funds to support local, national, and international initiatives, the Foundation helped us respond to today’s urgent needs while advancing a long-term vision for a strong, sustainable Jewish community for generations to come.
Throughout the past year, our community has consistently shown up—with compassion, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to Jewish life. We are deeply grateful to our donors, partners, volunteers, and staff, whose dedication ensures we can meet this moment—and prepare for the next.
This was a year of unprecedented challenge— and one defined by courage, clarity, and collective purpose. That is the story of this past year, and a powerful reminder of what’s possible through The Power of Together.
With gratitude,
Executive Officer
IN RECOGNITION OF OUR PARTNERS
SOCIAL SERVICES
Jewish Family Service Agency
Tikva Housing Society
Yaffa Housing Society
Senior Services
COMMUNITY BUILDING
Burquest Jewish Community Association
Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver
JEWISH EDUCATION
Supplementary (Part-Time) Programs:
Beth Israel Hebrew School and Chai School
Beth Tikvah Hebrew School
Har El / North Shore
Hebrew School
Or Shalom Religious School
Schara Tzedeck Supplementary School
YOUTH
Camp Hatikvah
Camp Solomon Schechter
ARTS AND CULTURE
Jewish Museum and Archives of BC
Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
NATIONAL PARTNERS
Coast-to-Coast Partnership2Gether
Jewish Seniors Alliance of British Columbia
Kehila Society of Richmond
L’Chaim Adult Day Centre
White Rock/South Surrey
Jewish Community Centre
Temple Sholom Religious School and Temple Teens
Torah High
White Rock/South Surrey
Jewish Community Centre Day Schools:
King David High School
Richmond Jewish Day School
Vancouver Talmud Torah
Habonim-Dror Camp Miriam Hillel BC
Vancouver Jewish Film Centre
Jewish Federations of Canada – UIA
ISRAEL AND OVERSEAS PARTNERS
Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)
Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)
Keren Hayesod
DOMESTIC AND ISRAEL ADVOCACY
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)
Ezra S. Shanken Chief
Lana Marks Pulver Board Chair
Combatting Antisemitism
As antisemitism intensified throughout the year, the need for a sustained, structured response grew.
In June 2024, Jewish Federation hired a dedicated program director to support the Antisemitism and Israel Crisis Response Team (AICRT) team and expand its efforts. The initiative was renamed Combatting Antisemitism, concentrating on domestic issues, with a dual focus on crisis management and the future.
Federation’s historical role supporting its partner agencies— our coordinated network of over 30 local, affiliated organizations—represents a service delivery model. But the current climate of antisemitism calls upon the Jewish community to respond to this crisis as a social justice movement. Community organizing is the process of bringing people with a common interest or concern together to address issues and work towards collective goals; this typically involves identifying problems, developing solutions, and mobilizing members to take action.
Since October 7th, 2023, Jewish Federation has been supporting existing and emerging unaffiliated non-profit and grassroots groups to self-advocate, particularly in sectors most impacted by the surge in antisemitism. Eight grassroots groups, and more than 700 Jewish community activists are pushing back against anti-Jewish hate in BC public K-12 education, post-secondary institutions, health care, unions, and arts and culture, showing exemplary leadership in their respective areas. Together, these groups are shaping a sustained, community-led approach grounded in advocacy, education, and legal action.
Jewish Federation continues to serve in a convening and coordinating capacity, offering practical support and advice to our partner agencies and to grassroots and non-profit community partners as well as providing program and project grants to support their efforts.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Outcomes
@ Responded to 250+ inquiries and requests for support re: antisemitism
@ More than 700 Jewish community activists joined grassroots groups combatting antisemitism
@ Responded to 35+ complaints about antisemitism within BC labour unions
None of this work would be possible without the generous support of our Jewish community and our allies. Gifts to our antisemitism fund have financed every aspect of the vital work undertaken by Federation, partner agencies, non-profits, and grassroots groups. We are deeply grateful to these Foundations and individual supporters.
In November 2024, Jewish Federation launched a 15-member Antisemitism Task Force composed of Jewish community leaders from diverse fields including social workers, lawyers, politicians, health care professionals, academics, communications and public affairs specialists, and more.
For more than six months, this group consulted with experts and reviewed key research to shape a bold vision: a proud, resilient Jewish community supported by strong institutions, engaged allies, and a society that rejects antisemitism.
Their final report offers a strategic roadmap that will guide Jewish Federation’s efforts— integrating the fight against antisemitism with community capacity-building, resource allocation, and deeper partnerships for a safer, stronger, and more vibrant future.
MOBILIZING RESOURCES AND ACTION
As the Israel-Hamas war continued to escalate, so too did anti-Jewish hate around the world—including here at home. In response, Jewish Federation established a dedicated Antisemitism Fund to support a wide range of strategic initiatives in key sectors across BC.
Thanks to the generosity of our Jewish community and allies, the Antisemitism Fund has supported education and public awareness campaigns, as well as advocacy and community organizing activities targeting BC’s public school sector, post-secondary institutions, health care, labour unions, and arts and culture where antisemitism has been most prevalent. At the same time, a robust dedicated legal resiliency fund has been created to pursue strategic impact litigation.
While challenges persist, this approach has delivered tangible results:
» Numerous anti-Israel union resolutions were challenged by Jewish and allied labour activists, with some defeated and others passing by narrow margins.
» A flourishing grassroots movement of more than 700 Jewish activists has emerged to push back against antisemitism in key occupational sectors.
» A BC-based non-profit organization was established to defend human rights and combat hate through strategic impact litigation.
For the foreseeable future, antisemitism shows no sign of abating. Jewish Federation will continue to advance this work—in collaboration with partner agencies and an expanded network of activists and allies—as well as with the support of our philanthropic community. This is a long-game approach that will require a strategic vision for the short and long-term. Our community will respond as we always have: with strength, determination, and resilience.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Statistics
@ $1.02M in multiyear grants for 3 FT staff (CIJA, a new legal support organization)
@ $400K grant to establish Legal Resilience Fund
@ Nearly $260K raised through network of allied local business leaders
Enhancing Community Security
Community security has long been a key strategic priority for Jewish Federation. We take a proactive, collaborative approach— equipping Jewish institutions across British Columbia with the tools they need to prepare for and respond to evolving threats with strength and confidence.
STRENGTHENING NATIONAL AND PROVINCIAL COLLABORATION
This year, recognizing the value of coordinated efforts, we invested in relationships with Jewish security networks across Canada—including Toronto’s JSN and Montreal’s CSN—to align best practices, to improve joint research, and amplify our collective voice. Our reach also expanded across British Columbia to deliver services including threat assessments and upgrades, training, and guidance ensuring communities of all sizes have the tools and support they need.
BUILDING NEW LEADERSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL CAPACITY
With trained volunteers now, Bitachon is Jewish Federation’s community security volunteering initiative. Launched in response to increased
ENHANCING LAW ENFORCEMENT RELATIONSHIPS
We continue to build strong partnerships with law enforcement, whose vigilance and expertise are vital to our community’s safety. From rapid response to large-scale event planning, collaboration through briefings, joint exercises, and ongoing communication is key to our broader security strategy. We are proud to recognize and thank them for standing with us.
ACCESSING AND SECURING GOVERNMENT FUNDS
With the cost of securing our communal organizations rising sharply in recent years, we helped local groups secure over $200,000 this year through federal and provincial programs such as the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) and the Anti-Hate Provincial Fund. We
TRAINING AND BUILDING A CULTURE OF RESILIENCE
Training is central to our security strategy. This year, we delivered over 80 tailored sessions on situational awareness, threat response, and first aid—equipping communal institutions with the tools to enhance their safety. Beyond immediate protection, we are fostering a culture of vigilance, preparedness, and resilience across our community.
SECURING COMMUNITY EVENTS
Over the past year, Jewish Federation’s security team supported the safety of hundreds of community events, ranging from large-scale rallies and public festivals to school celebrations and religious gatherings. At each event, we collaborated closely with event organizers and law enforcement to assess risk, implement safety protocols, and provide a visible, reassuring security presence.
Our continued investment in security is an investment in the confidence and peace of mind of our community, ensuring that Jewish life in BC can thrive safely and without fear.
IEC – Israel Emergency Campaign Allocations
Following the October 7 attacks, our community mobilized with speed, compassion, and resolve. Through the Israel Emergency Campaign (IEC), we raised a historic $20.4 million to support those affected by the crisis in Israel—an unprecedented response from our community.
Initial funds were rapidly deployed to meet urgent needs such as trauma care, evacuation, food security, and emergency medical services. By the end of the ‘24 fiscal year $12.6M has been allocated to over 50 organizations addressing: emergency and basic needs, evacuation, housing, and frontline community support, emergency health and trauma care, civil society and economic recovery and special populations.
As the war evolved, so did the needs. Our Israel Emergency Allocations Committee, chaired by Stephen Gaerber, continued to assess conditions on the ground and direct funds strategically. A key priority in this fiscal year has been supporting resilience and rehabilitation in northern Israel, where entire communities remain displaced or under threat. Our funding has helped sustain essential services such as trauma counselling, mental health care, educational continuity, and community rebuilding.
The IEC’s strategic allocations this year reflect a commitment to staying the course. We are investing in community infrastructure, education, youth programming, and civil society organizations that will carry northern communities through recovery and into renewal.
SUPPORTING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE AND MENTAL HEALTH IN THE NORTH
One of the most significant grants this year was the continued support for the Kiryat Shmona Community Centre, which played a central role in managing the prolonged evacuation of the city’s residents and facilitating their return. In partnership with a coalition of philanthropic organizations and federations, we supported the Centre’s extraordinary efforts to sustain
community resilience, connectedness, and outreach for over 20,000 displaced residents— including families, youth, and seniors—scattered across the country.
As the community begins its journey home, determined to rebuild stronger than before, this support has proven vital—not only during the extended emergency but also as a foundation for our enduring partnership with the region, its leadership, and its people.
The mental health crisis following October 7 and the ongoing war is both deep and unprecedented in scale. Israelis of all ages and backgrounds are grappling with trauma, anxiety, and a range of mental health challenges stemming from the new national reality. Several IEC grants were directed toward addressing this
crisis, with two initiatives exemplifying the dual impact of emergency response and long-term care:
» Enosh – The Israeli Mental Health Association rapidly expanded its services to the general public, opening seven new centres nationwide. With support from the IEC, partnering federations, and philanthropic allies, Enosh established a new centre in Kiryat Shmona. This facility serves youth and young adults across the region and collaborates with other Federationsupported organizations, including Mashabim and the psychiatric unit at Ziv Medical Center.
» Healthy Mind, an Israeli startup that pivoted to nonprofit work after October 7, launched an online platform providing psychiatric and psychological care. By reducing wait times from at least three months to just three days, Healthy Mind addresses a critical need. The IEC grant supported its work with residents in the northern region, in coordination with local mental health providers.
Both Enosh and Healthy Mind are philanthropically driven initiatives with sustainability models designed to transition to government funding once the emergency phase concludes. These efforts lay the groundwork for lasting, accessible mental health care in affected communities.
ORGANIZATIONS IEC SUPPORTED
EMERGENCY AND BASIC NEEDS
Bring Them Back Home
East Galilee Cluster
Galila
Israel Association of Community Centres (IACC)
Magen David Adom
United Hatzalah
Ziv and Poriya Hospitals
Pitachon Lev
Latet
Hannaton Education Center Municipalities in the Eastern Galilee Cluster
EVACUATION, HOUSING, AND FRONTLINE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Dror Israel
IACC
Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)
Kedma
Ramat Negev & Sha’ar HaNegev
Regional Councils
Sidney Warren Science
Education Centre
Tel-Hai College
Shahaf Foundation & Kiryat
Shmona Community Centre
Summer Camps Israel
Elem
Israel Diving Federation
Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI)
Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)
Taglit-Birthright Israel
EMERGENCY HEALTH AND TRAUMA CARE
ADI-Negev Nahalat Eran
Beit HaLochem
Israel Centre for Addictions
Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC)
JAFI
Mashabim Community
Stress Prevention Center
Yeelim Center at Ein Yael
Haruv Institute
Ziv Medical Center
Kiryat Shmona Psychiatric Unit
Road to Recovery
Upper Galilee Hospice
Tzafon Medical Center
Magen David Adom Israel Galilee Medical Center
Healthy Mind
CIVIL SOCIETY AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY
Israeli Hostages
Advocacy Fund
Leket Israel
Ogen
Yozmot Atid
SPECIAL POPULATIONS
Beit Issie Shapiro
JDC
Kishorit
Ramat Negev
Regional Council
Kiryat Shmona High School
Upper Galilee
Regional Council
Tel-Hai College
Shalva National Crisis
Response Center
Adler Institute
Israel Medical Association
Orthodox Union
Community Building
As the needs of our community grows across the Province, Jewish Federation continues to bring partners together to align resources with evolving needs.
In line with our strategic priorities, this year, we deepened support for youth, seniors, and students facing mental health challenges, while expanding outreach to emerging and underserved communities to reflect our broader commitment to building a strong, inclusive, and resilient Jewish community across British Columbia.
SENIORS ROUNDTABLE
We launched a Seniors Roundtable—bringing together service providers and advocates to identify gaps, improve access, and coordinate support, setting the stage for a collaborative effort to enhance the wellbeing and independence of Jewish seniors.
Hanukkah in Delta
YOUTH ENGAGEMENT ROUNDTABLE
Recognizing the need for more coordinated and impactful youth engagement, Jewish Federation convened a Youth Engagement Roundtable for organizations that offer programming for teens. This collaboration is helping to align efforts, highlight best practices, and ensure that our youth are meaningfully connected to Jewish life. The roundtable is already informing strategy and investment in next-generation leadership and identity-building opportunities.
CAMPUS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Our mental health initiative has remained a critical lifeline for Jewish students across B.C. Facing increased antisemitism, fear, and social exclusion, Federation provided funding for students at UBC and UVic to receive counselling and participate in facilitated support circles helping them process trauma and reconnect with community. We supported Hillel’s Night of Resilience—an event that celebrated Jewish and allied student leaders working to combat antisemitism and build a more inclusive campus environment and strengthening student wellbeing. Events like these are not only uplifting, but they are also essential to building student resilience, pride, and a sense of belonging.
REGIONAL COMMUNITIES
Earlier this year, we launched a comprehensive survey across B.C. to better understand the needs of communities outside Vancouver. With 297 responses, the insights gained are now guiding the Regional Communities program’s priorities and tailored support for each area. Thanks to increased funding from The Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation, our Regional Communities program is expanding over the next three years. We hired four new Community Connectors, and this program now serves 26 communities across B.C.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
5829 Event Attendees
543 Volunteers
164 Events
Jewish Education, Youth & Young Adults
Strengthening Jewish identity and fostering community connection are central to Federation’s work. This year, we invested in initiatives that empowered educators, developed future leaders, and expanded access to programs across the region. Together with our partners, we created opportunities for our youth and young adults to learn, lead, and celebrate, ensuring that Jewish life remains strong, vibrant, and meaningful for generations to come.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR JEWISH EDUCATORS
In line with our strategic commitment to strengthen Jewish identity, we continue to invest in the people who shape Jewish life today and tomorrow. From educators nurturing young minds to young adults stepping into leadership and professionals deepening their impact, these initiatives reflect our enduring commitment to cultivating knowledge, belonging, and purpose across generations.
More than 140 educators from Jewish day schools and supplementary programs came together for a full day of professional development, hosted in partnership with VTT. Participants from RJDS, VTT, VHA, the JCC, Beth Israel, Temple Sholom, and Chabad Hebrew School engaged in a range of collaborative sessions that encouraged cross-institutional connection and knowledge-sharing.
The program offered fresh perspectives on classroom practice, student engagement, and current trends in education. Though it was a single day, the experience left educators energized, empowered, and supported by a growing professional network committed to excellence and student success.
WEXNER LEADERSHIP COHORT & SPEAKER SERIES
The Wexner Cohort is a dynamic group of 20 young adults, ages 30–45, participating in the prestigious Wexner Heritage Program—one of the Jewish world’s most respected leadership development initiatives. Through bi-weekly sessions with leading scholars, the program blends immersive learning with leadership training to prepare participants for meaningful roles in their communities
With support from the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation, we organized and hosted The Wexner Speaker Series, featuring nine distinguished speakers in 2024/2025—offering the cohort and the wider BC Jewish community access to top-tier thought leadership. Many of our community’s leaders are Wexner alumni—a reflection of the program’s lasting impact in shaping strong, values-driven leadership for Jewish life in B.C.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Axis Events
@ Summer Social 2024
@ Cozy Coloring with Axis
@ Tax Planning and Financial Management for Young Professionals
@ Box and Sweat
@ Axis x BRCA Board Games Night
@ Axis Winter Formal
Each event has helped young adults connect, learn, and grow. We’re committed to expanding these initiatives, reaching regional communities, and creating new opportunities for youth to engage with Jewish life and each other.
AXIS
Jewish Federation is committed to engaging young Jewish adults in ways that are meaningful for them, to get involved in community and grow their leadership skills.
This year, we welcomed Teddy Hector as Chair of the Axis Committee. Under his leadership, Axis continues to deliver dynamic programs that foster personal and professional growth, while collaborating with synagogues and community partners to strengthen support for this vital cohort.
PJ LIBRARY
PJ Library continues to provide families raising Jewish children with a Jewish touchpoint, whatever their background, knowledge, family composition, or observance may be. Currently serving 1,040 families with no waitlists, it welcomed 218 new families since Spring 2024.
Axis and Hillel Kayak Event
Beyond book distribution, PJ Library enriches early childhood education by offering literacy and school-age programs in partnership with local schools, synagogues, and organizations. The program also distributed 20 Rosh Hashanah and over 50 Hanukkah holiday-themed sets to parents for classroom use that encourage conversations about Jewish traditions. The program hosted community events, engaging with over 250 families, and fostering strong community connections. Looking ahead to 2025-2026, PJ Library aims to expand its impact, embracing diverse voices and cross-
cultural learning while equipping families with resources to nurture children’s love of learning, and supporting the next generation through meaningful educational opportunities. These efforts help families connect with their heritage while strengthening local communities.
SHINSHINIM
The ShinShinim program, run by the Jewish Agency for Israel, allows Israeli teens to defer army service for a year to immerse themselves in Jewish communities across the world, sharing Israeli culture and traditions.
This year’s Shinshiniyot, Or Shukrun and Lihi Shushan, expanded the program’s reach to new regional communities— including Squamish, Whistler, Vancouver Island, and weekly sessions in Langley— engaging hundreds of families across 10 communities. They also participated in local and regional community events, while continuing to strengthen ties with local schools and synagogues and building lasting relationships across generations and geography.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Regional Events
In partnership with the Jewish Federation and regional communities, the following events were held:
@ Chocolate Seder in New Westminster
@ PJ Whistler/Squamish Challah Bake
@ Rising Challah Bake and Book Reading
@ Grandparents Day Challah Cover Making
Additionally, we hosted:
@ Rosh Hashanah Family Fun Day in Surrey
@ Macaroons Concert with East Side Jews
@ Challah Bakes in Abbotsford,
Investment in Community –Distributions & Allocations
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver raises and distributes funds to community organizations aligned with our strategic priorities. Our commitment to broadening and diversifying funding reflects a deep understanding of our community’s evolving needs. In addition to Annual Campaign allocations, we worked collaboratively to help organizations access funding through a range of channels that strengthen the community. This approach fosters innovation and amplifies our collective impact—demonstrating the true power of together.
$21.3M Total Grants and Allocations
Local Agency Allocations
National Allocations
Jewish Community Foundation*
Israel Emergency Campaign
Israel & Overseas
$ 1. 8M
$3,281,372
$1,717,969
$9,187,073
$2,177,357
$1,803,207
Restricted Giving $2,381,390
Flow-through $785,668
Total $21,334,036
*To learn more about how the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Vancouver distributes allocated funds, see pages 6 – 7 of the 2024/25 JCF Annual Report: issuu. com/jewishvancouver/docs/202425_foundation_annual_report
$6.7M Allocated 2023 Federation Annual Campaign*
*Funds from the 2023 Annual allocated in the 2024–25
the Federation Campaign*
Local Funding Envelopes
Our two-year allocation cycle provides our partners with predictable, dependable funding, allowing them to plan and deliver their programs with confidence. Through this support, and in collaboration with more than 30 local partner organizations, thousands of individuals across our community receive the services they need. By aligning resources with shared priorities, we strengthen the infrastructure of Jewish life and ensure a meaningful, measurable impact at the local level.
Israel Connections and Partnerships
Jewish Federation is committed to strengthening Jewish life in Israel and around the world, while deepening connections with our local community. Through partnerships with trusted agencies, we support communities in need, create meaningful volunteer opportunities and help reinforce the ties between our community here and in Israel.
MOMENTS OF REFLECTION AND SOLIDARITY
This year, our community united in grief and remembrance following the tragedy of October 7 and the ongoing war. Over 2,550 people joined memorial services in person and online, led by the Rabbinical Association of Vancouver, and more than 750 attended our Yom HaZikaron ceremony. These gatherings offered meaningful space to honour the victims and stand together in solidarity.
CELEBRATING ISRAEL@76!
Over a two-week period, our community celebrated Israeli culture through food, music, dance, and art to celebrate Israel’s 76 years of independence. We were proud to bring the Clore & Roll Youth Ensemble from our partnership region in the Galilee Panhandle, to perform at our community’s Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration. Performing for over 800 attendees, these talented teens served as a living bridge between our communities, reminding us that our connection to Israel remains strong and unwavering.
SUPPORTING ISRAELI NEWCOMERS
Following October 7 and Canada’s special immigration measures, B.C. welcomed hundreds of newcomer families seeking safety and stability. In partnership with agencies and grassroots groups, Federation distributed over 120 welcome packages and hosted 15+ orientation and employment sessions to over 250 participants. While many arrivals came from Israel, our program remains open to all Jewish newcomers, reflecting our commitment to making everyone feel welcomed, supported, and at home.
ISRAELI DELEGATION AT THE INVICTUS GAMES
Our community proudly welcomed the Israeli delegation to the Invictus Games, honouring the wounded veterans. In partnership with Invictus Organization, the Israeli Ambassador to Canada, and Beit Halochem Canada, we cohosted a reception for 230 guests to celebrate the Israeli team and their achievements. We also delivered 50 gift baskets with personalized cards from students at VTT, RJDS, and VHA. Over 140 Jewish students and families attended the Games, cheering on these inspiring athletes.
SUPPORTING OUR PARTNERSHIP REGION OF KIRYAT SHMONA & THE GALILEE PANHANDLE
In alignment with the Israel Emergency Campaign (IEC), the Israel and Global Engagement Committee (IGEC) continued to support four key anchor partners—The GalilEast Leadership Program, the Equalizer, Unistream, and Dror Israel—all dedicated to building local capacity, cultivating leadership, and advancing social mobility in the region.
Our ongoing investment in these specific programs reflects our commitment to long-term recovery and resilience across Israeli society. In addition, the IGEC continued its ongoing support and commitment to Beit Vancouver and concluded its multi-year commitments to Kedma students’ village and the Studio Program in Kiryat Shmona.
Beit Vancouver
Beit Vancouver is the central hub for youth and teen activities in the city of Kiryat Shmona, led by the local Community Centre. The Vancouver community’s commitment to Beit Vancouver continues, with substantial funding provided by direct donor gifts, in addition to the allocation from the IGEC. Although Beit Vancouver was closed during the war, the activities continued in a different format to connect and support the evacuees in their temporary locations. Beit Vancouver has since reopened its gates to resume services and activities for the returning families.
GalilEast Leadership Program
GalilEast is an initiative developing Israel’s next generation of municipal and community leaders. A core component is a week-long study tour in Vancouver, where participants learn about municipal governance, inter-agency cooperation, and civic leadership models. During their May 2025 visit, the group of twenty-seven leaders explored how the city functions across public, private, and nonprofit sectors—while also connecting with the local Jewish community. In addition to our federation, other funding partners are the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation, Beyachad Foundation, Danbe Foundation, the Eastern Galilee Cluster, and the Tel-Hai College.
Kedma student village in Misgav-Am
The program has been dedicated to strengthening Israel’s border communities since its establishment. The student village model continues to offer vital community, educational, and social support to communities grappling with the challenges of the ongoing war and actively engaged in providing immediate relief and support.
Kiryat Shmona Community Centre Network Studio program
The program has been using arts as an educational-therapeutic tool, aiming at reducing loitering and at-risk behaviors and at enhancing a sense of belonging and strengthening overall well-being for participants in the program. Since the evacuation of Kiryat Shmona in late October 2023, the program has been working in an emergency mode, facilitating the sessions in the hotels, where residents of Kiryat Shmona temporarily settled, while focusing on providing respite activities for children and adolescents.
The Equalizer
The Equalizer program combines sports and education to support underprivileged children from diverse backgrounds through soccer teams and learning centres. Participants receive tutoring and take part in monthly tournaments that foster teamwork, confidence, and a sense of belonging. With support from Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, two (of four originally planned) teams were launched for children from Kiryat Shmona living in evacuation centres in Tiberias and Tel Aviv—offering a stable, supportive framework during an especially difficult and uncertain time.
Unistream
In partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, teens from the socio-economic periphery in Kiryat Shmona and the Eastern Galilee are gaining entrepreneurial skills and the confidence to expand their horizons. After a year of disruption due to evacuation and remote programming, during which Unistream continued to operate the program online and in remote settings, the Unistream Centre proudly reopened in March 2025. The Vancouver IGEC delegation was there to join the special occasion, meet with local youth, and celebrate their return home.
Dror Israel (NOAL)
Dror Israel (NOAL), one of Israel’s most inclusive youth movements, operates a program in the underprivileged Bedouin village of Tuba-Zangariyye. With support from Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, the program serves 300 local children—regardless of background or ability to pay—and empowers youth to become leaders in their community. It also fosters connection between Jews and Arabs in the Etzba HaGalil region, promoting shared society, democracy, and coexistence.
2024 Annual Campaign
The Power of Together began with each of us. Every act of giving, showing up, and getting involved fueled our collective strength. We are proud to share the remarkable success of our 2024 Annual Campaign, which raised $13.17 million—an impressive 13% increase over last year. This achievement reflects the unwavering support of our donors, corporate sponsors, volunteers, and community agency partners.
Ezra Shanken, Michael Rappaport, Shay (Shy) Keil, and Mark Wilf
TOGETHER WE RAISED
$13.17 MILLION FOR COMMUNITY
Our campaign momentum was fueled by high-energy events that brought our community together in powerful ways. Campaign Opening Night drew more than 1,100 attendees and featured actor and activist Michael Rapaport alongside Colonel Miri Eisen (ret.). Choices: Women in Philanthropy welcomed 500 guests for an inspiring evening with influencer Montana Tucker. And Men’s Poker Night rallied our community around our shared mission and values.
These events were more than just gatherings—they were celebrations of community, resilience, and the collective impact we make when we come together. Together, we invested in vital programs and services that uplifted individuals and strengthened Jewish life locally, in Israel, and around the world. Together, we built resilience. Together, we protected our future. Together, we ensured our community remained not only strong—but unshakable.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
With Shay (Shy) Keil’s direction, leadership, vision, and support as Campaign Chair, we achieved the following:
2,651 Donors
319 New Donors
$13.17M Raised $1.78M in additional funding directed to special projects $1.86M to combat antisemitism $150K in additional funding thanks to corporate partners
These achievements reflect the Power of Together and generosity of our community. We remain committed to building a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone. Thank you for making a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives we serve.
Thank you to our Campaign Chair, Shay (Shy) Keil and to our working annual campaign volunteer lay leaders; Sue & Rob Hector, Chana Charach, Lindsay Isserow, Alvin Wasserman, Al Sjazman, David Linde, Deborah Setton-Tabenkin, Brent Davis, and Jackie Cristall Morris.
SPECIAL PROJECT FUNDING
Jewish Federation works to address highpriority needs in the local community and parts of Israel. Donations support a wide range of projects including community outreach, Jewish education, food security, affordable housing, security, Beit Vancouver, and PJ Library. This year, we focused primarily on securing funds to combat the rise of antisemitism and keeping our local communities safe. Thanks to our donors’ support, we addressed evolving needs and introduced new programs in addition to those already receiving allocations from the Federation Annual Campaign.
21 of our partner agencies reached 100% board member participation in our Annual Campaign.
VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT
Our volunteers are the heart of our organization, and crucial to the success of our campaign. This year, 206 dedicated canvassers generously gave their time, skills, and energy to support our efforts, strengthen connections and extend our impact. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and look forward to engaging and growing our volunteer community in the years ahead.
$106M+ Assets Under Management
402 Funds Under Management
$4.5M+ Distributed
Strengthening Our Community Through Philanthropy
The Jewish Community Foundation plays a crucial role in strengthening and sustaining our community for generations to come. As the endowment arm of the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, the Foundation provides stable, long-term financial resources to support the organizations and initiatives that uphold our shared values that enrich Jewish life.
This year, the Foundation reached new milestones—managing over $106 million in invested assets and stewarding 402 funds. Thanks to the foresight and generosity of our fundholders, over $4.5 million was distributed to support a wide range of vital programs and services locally, nationally, and in Israel, from a Technology and STEM Education upgrade at a local day school, to the development of initiatives that provide enriching Jewish cultural experiences. These funds empowered organizations to deliver essential services,
launch new programs, and respond to emerging needs with agility and impact.
In times of uncertainty, the strength of our community is reflected in its united response.
This year, we witnessed an outpouring of generosity in response to urgent needs, including contributions to support Israel, enhance local security and combat antisemitism. The flexibility of these funds allows fundholders to respond to immediate challenges while creating an impact that aligns with their philanthropic priorities.
The Jewish Community Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible investment and prudent financial stewardship, while building a legacy of resilience. Through strategic philanthropy and legacy, our long-term approach ensures that we meet today’s needs and lay the groundwork for a thriving Jewish future for generations to come.
Five Successes of 2024/25
1 — Achieved record-breaking results in the 2024 Annual Campaign, raising $13.7 Million for community, a 13% increase. With $9.4 million in unrestricted funds to strengthen local and Israeli partnerships, enhance community programming, and ensure operational sustainability.
2 — Named a Top 10 Charity in BC Business’s 2024 Top 100 B.C.’s biggest companies by industry.
3 — 402 funds under management with eight new funds opened (2 more than previous year), with total contributions of $8.3 million (growth of
52% from previous year). Fund holders were actively using their funds, with distributions of $4.5 million supporting initiatives locally, nationally and in Israel.
4 — Revived the highly anticipated Wexner Speaker Series, delivering 10 dynamic events that engaged up to 100 participants per event across the community.
5 — Provided security services for over 200 community events since April 2024, deploying over 100 Bitachon volunteers.
Governance
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Committee
Board Chair
Lana Marks Pulver
Vice-Chair
Jason Murray
Immediate Past Chair
Candace Kwinter
Secretary
Dan Steiner
Treasurer
Jeffrey Levin
Members-At-Large
Catherine Epstein
David Fox
Howard Kallner
Jonathon Leipsic
Stan Shaw
Chief Executive Officer
Ezra Shanken
Board of Directors
Reut Amit
Jackie Cristall Morris
Catherine Epstein|
Deborah Folka
David Fox
Gabe Garfinkel
Sue Hector
Hodie Kahn
Howard Kallner
Shay Keil
Candace Kwinter
Jonathon Leipsic
Jeffrey Levin
Jason Murray
Lisa Pullan
Stan Shaw
Dan Steiner
Marty Weinberg
Honourary Chairs Emeritus
Sam Belzberg z’l
Jonathan Berkowitz
Robert Coleman z’l
Alex Cristall
Gordon Diamond
Arnie Fine
Dennis Frankenburg z’l
Michael Fugman
Stephen Gaerber
Sondi Green
Mitchell Gropper
Karen James
Peter Oreck
Daniel Pekarsky
Bernard Pinsky
Lois Raphael
Joseph Segal z’l
Diane Switzer
Malcolm Weinstein
Bob Wilmot
Ted Zacks
Garry Zlotnik
Committees
» Axis Steering Committee
» Combatting Antisemitism Steering Committee
» Community Security Advisory Committee
» Cyber Security and Information Protection Subcommittee
» Day School Education Council
» Finance Committee
» Governance Committee
» HR Committee
» Local Allocations Committee
» Planning & Community Engagement Council
» Regional Communities Committee
» The Taskforce for Combatting Antisemitism
Federation Annual Campaign
» Choices Co-Chairs
» Men’s Philanthropy Team Captains
» Women’s Philanthropy Team Captains
» Working Cabinet
Young Adult Philanthropy
» Axis Steering Committee
Israel and Global Engagement
» Israel and Global Engagement Committee
» Israel Emergency Campaign Special Allocations Committee
» March of the Living Committee
» Yom Ha’atzmaut Committee
» Yom HaZikaron Committee
Marketing and Communications
» Marketing and Communications Resource Group
» Social Media Resource Group
Jewish Community Foundation
» Fund Development Committee
» Governors
» Grant Distribution Committee
» Investment Committee
Jewish Federation Executive Team
Chief Executive Officer
Ezra Shanken
Chief of Staff
Gabe Bloomfield Book
Chief Planning officer
Mijal Ben Dori
Chief Development Officer
Talia Bender
Financials
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver Condensed Statement of Financial Position and Operations (Audited)
MARCH 31, 2025, WITH COMPARATIVE INFORMATION FOR 2024
& Net Assets
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver Condensed Statement of Financial Position and Operations (Audited)
MARCH 31, 2025, WITH COMPARATIVE INFORMATION FOR 2024
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
We are deeply grateful to our corporate sponsors whose generous support played a pivotal role in the success of this year’s campaign. Their contributions help offset operational costs, event expenses, and other essential program needs—ensuring that a greater portion of funding goes towards the agencies we support.
Thanks to these vital partnerships, we have been able to expand our reach, enhance program funding, provide critical services to those in need, and create a lasting impact in our community. We are truly grateful for the meaningful difference our corporate sponsors make.
