You can help determine the type of world our children and grandchildren will inherit.
The Federation is committed to partnering with community members to create positive change in the world. One way to maximize your impact is by opening a donor-advised fund (DAF). A low-cost way to set aside charitable dollars for grantmaking now or in the future.
Through your DAF, you can make grants to a full range of organizations that support causes that are most meaningful to you. From experienced donors to those just getting started, our advisors provide broad-based expertise, combined with deep knowledge of the Jewish community, to ensure your giving strategy is effective and
Let ’s start by having a conversation. Contact us at 415.512.6225 or philanthropy@sfjcf.org to open a DAF today.
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Our greatest goal (and greatest joy) is to help all students uncover their unique gifts. Whether they are directing their own play or pitching a startup, we create a space for all students to try new things inside a community that cheers them on. We encourage children to sculpt, act, sing, play sports, start a club – anything that will help them stretch and grow and truly find the things that they love.
Sure, we have amazing academics and brilliant teachers who absolutely love what they do (and they are a big part of our secret sauce). But wait until you see the choices outside the classroom. Athletics, performing arts, clubs, business and entrepreneurship, debate … the list goes on and on. And when kids try something new and a passion is ignited, that is where the magic happens.
Since 1893 we have been doing what we love –bringing out the very best in children – and we welcome you to join our community!
The San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living’s expansive 9 acres offers older adults opportunities to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, stay socially connected, pursue meaningful activities, and enjoy a high quality of life.
Come see for yourself how we are transforming aging into a journey of continual growth and discovery.
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Welcome to Resource!
Opportunities for community — maybe more important now than ever — fill the pages of the 2024-2025 Resource, revealing the many, many ways you and your family can play an active part in Jewish life, no matter where you live in the nine counties of the Bay Area.
The Table of Contents on page 4 directs you to 16 chapters, each brimming with options for involvement in our community regardless of your stream of Judaism, your current level of observance and whether you are new to town or a longtime resident.
The 650-plus listings include synagogues, Bay Area service agencies ready to help meet almost any need, numbers to call for guidance with lifecycle rituals, resources for older adults, educational opportunities for all ages, organizations that offer support to LGBTQ individuals, local interfaith programs, plus institutions and programs raising money for Israel.
Also listed in Resource are fitness centers, camps and clubs for kids and teens, spots to dine in or grab a nosh to go (bagels galore!), choruses eager for you to add your voice, shops where you’ll find that perfect gift and Israeli folk dancing classes. (You always meant to learn, right?)
On page after page, you’ll find information that may lead you to the exact source you’d been looking for or listings that spark your interest in something new. And if you require more information, know that Resource provides web links, phone numbers and likely a contact person eager to hear from you.
J. The Jewish News of Northern California publishes Resource, an annual publication (you’re holding our 34th edition), compiled to connect and inform the thriving Jewish community in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you’re not already a subscriber and want to keep up to date with all things Jewish in our neighborhoods and the region, consider subscribing to J., which in 2025 will celebrate 130 years in business. Go to either jweekly.com/subscribe for the print edition, that is published on alternating Fridays, or jweekly.com/newsletter for the daily emailed newsletter.
Meanwhile, welcome to Resource 2024-2025, your invitation to participate more fully in the rich culture of our vibrant community.
Warmly,
The Resource Team
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NEWS PEOPLE TRENDS PLACES EVENTS YEAR IN REVIEW POWER HISTORY PLANS CONVERSATIONS ANALYSIS HAPPENINGS 1 | Our Jewish Community
Local JCCs reinvent themselves for changing times
LESLIE KATZ | J. CORRESPONDENT
Never mind that the Contra Costa Jewish Community Center opened its doors when Gerald Ford was president and the first VHS player had just hit the market. Today, the JCC finds itself, in the words of board president Larry Jacobs, “in startup mode.”
More than a dozen years after money problems forced the East Bay nonprofit to abruptly close its doors — it now operates as a largely volunteer-driven “JCC without walls” — the board has welcomed a new executive director to steer the center forward and hopefully position it as a model of agility and innovation.
“Our future is only limited by our imagination at this point,” Jacobs said. “We can be whoever we want to be, and it’s a very exciting moment.”
The Contra Costa JCC is not alone in its optimism. As Bay Area JCCs continue to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, they are now in a position to reimagine themselves. They’re opening satellite campuses to widen their geographic reach, forging multiple partnerships to attract new people and expanding virtual programming that
became a hit during the pandemic. They’re also doubling down on fundraising.
The pandemic left JCCs everywhere reeling from deep budget and programming cuts that led to furloughs and layoffs, forcing centers to cancel integral in-person offerings such as preschools, summer camps and revenue-driving gyms and aquatic centers. To prevent them from failing altogether during that difficult time, six Bay Area JCCs received a total of $10 million through the Power in Partnership Fund, an initiative led by Taube Philanthropies and the Koum Family Foundation. The money proved to be a lifeline.
“During Covid, while membership fell off a cliff and we lost programming revenue in all kinds of ways, fundraising revenue went up,” said Jordan Shenker, CEO of the Peninsula JCC in Foster City and a 30-year veteran of the JCC world. “The greater your degree of long-term financial support from fundraising, the greater the likelihood of sustainability.”
North American JCCs largely arose in the post-World War II years as newfound economic prosperity drove Jews from densely populated urban neighborhoods to the suburbs, where they no longer ran into fellow Jews on every corner. JCCs offered a new kind of neighborhood, a place of belonging where these Jewish transplants from the cities could come to socialize, play handball or basketball, take a dance or drawing class or twirl a grogger at a Purim party. Over the years, JCCs have come to occupy a unique niche as inclusive hubs for a cross section of Jews, including many who don’t belong to synagogues or other Jewish organizations.
“No other institution in Jewish communal life is as open and accessible and dedicated to serving the broad range of Jewish community as JCCs,” Shenker said.
But if JCCs hope to remain solvent and even flourish in the 21st century, flexibility and creativity are key, according to a 2019
study from Brandeis University’s Cohen Center for Jewish Modern Studies. It spotlighted 22 North American Jewish community centers, including one in the Bay Area, that have diversified their revenue models and experimented with novel outreach and programming.
Every local JCC, of course, has its own unique story, shaped by its history, its leaders, the region it serves and the people who walk through its physical or virtual doors every day to drop off toddlers at preschool, hear a best-selling author speak or log miles on a stationary bike. But all are facing the same unprecedented realities: They’re continuing to recover from the pandemicrelated membership losses. And they’re looking for ways to create safe, nurturing spaces for a community deeply shaken by the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack and the rise in antisemitism that’s followed.
“Much of how we are reinventing ourselves right now concentrates on meeting this moment,” said Nathaniel BergsonMichelson, chief marketing officer at the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto, which serves a large population of Israeli-born families in addition to American-born ones. Among other responses to the Israel-Hamas war, it expanded a pilot program that teaches life skills to teens to also help them handle antisemitism.
The Brandeis study, called “Innovating JCCs,” cites the Oshman Family JCC for its “exemplary” work in developing its Israeli Cultural Connection, a program that bridges the gap between American and Israeli Jews in the community. The initiative started when one JCC professional and one lay leader, both Israeli, ventured out into the community to survey the needs of local Israelis. That dialogue led to programs like Beged Kefet, a school that teaches both Hebrew and Israeli culture and counts toward high school credit, and Libi, a group for young families.
continued on page 12
Krav Maga demonstration at Osher Marin JCC. (Photo/Courtesy)
The leaders of the most successful JCCs, the Brandeis study said, “use data, they listen to people and they ask questions. They give their staff permission to try new things. They understand that innovation is not a once-and-done activity. They follow a path of incremental innovation, building from one step to the next as it becomes apparent. They are continuously on the lookout for competitive advantage and future trends.”
New Contra Costa JCC director Yana Berger, who just started in March, said it’s too early to forecast what the organization will look like in the years to come. The JCC could once again find itself inhabiting a dedicated physical space, Berger said. Or it could continue to function, as it does now, wherever programming takes it — to local living rooms, to partner synagogues for holiday festivities and its Under One Tent arts and culture series and, soon, to Walnut Creek nature trails where the newly launched J-Riders Club will meet for cycling and camaraderie.
No matter what, Contra Costa County residents will have a major hand in shaping the region’s JCC of tomorrow, according to Berger and board president Jacobs. Focus groups are already under way, with residents from Brentwood to Pleasanton sharing what they want and need.
“I would say we are meeting the community where they are, not where we are,” said Jacobs, a Moraga real estate agent whose two children, one now in college and one just finishing high school, attended preschool at the center. Since it sold its Walnut Creek building in 2011, the JCC has used interest from the sale’s principal to make grants to synagogues, Chabad centers and Jewish nonprofit organizations.
San Rafael’s Osher Marin JCC has taken
a different approach and has opened “JCC South,” its 6,000-square-foot satellite campus located about 10 miles away in Mill Valley. The new location, which opened to the public in April, serves as a hub for many of the JCC’s educational and cultural programs and as a community gathering space. Half of the space is dedicated to the preschool, which has already been serving children ages 2-5 since October 2023, and to JBaby programming for infants through age 2.
The JCC South initiative kicked off in the middle of Covid-19. “We were in a rebuilding mode anyway because of the pandemic,” Osher Marin JCC CEO Judy Wolff-Bolton told J. in early May. “We thought, ‘Let’s have a vibrant, robust satellite site, where we can do a variety of programs for all ages.’ ”
The JCC Sonoma County has also turned to preschool education to set its path
“We can be whoever we want to be, and it’s a very exciting moment.”
Larry Jacobs, Contra Costa JCC board president
toward the future. In September, it opened a nondenominational school for children ages 2-5 in a refurbished three-bedroom home in Santa Rosa that also holds the JCC’s office. Until then, the JCC hadn’t had a building. The preschool started with six children, ended the school year with 19 and hopes to enroll 24 this fall, said JCC board president Deborah Burg-Schnirman.
“We are thrilled with the success of our preschool in this first year,” she said. Over the next two to five years, she hopes to expand the preschool to new sites across the county. The JCC Sonoma County has continued its senior, holiday and cultural programming including its film fest, but opening the preschool has energized and focused the community.
“We are being seen … as an organization that is doing exciting things that people want to be involved in,” Burg-Schnirman said. “It’s just been a very positive experience for our JCC.”
The Addison-Penzak JCC in Los Gatos has also experienced a major shift in recent years. In 2021, it merged with the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley to form a new entity called Jewish Silicon Valley for a together-is-mightier approach.
“This intertwining has enabled us to combine the programming, community and fitness expertise of our APJCC and the planning and mobilizing function of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley,” said Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia, Jewish Silicon Valley’s chief community officer.
The JCC East Bay, meanwhile, is looking toward its own major expansion with
Contra Costa JCC's bike club. (Photo/Courtesy)
Israeli Independence Day celebration at the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto in 2015. (Photo/File)
an additional site on a $41 million, 3-acre property in Oakland’s Rockridge District, a choice neighborhood filled with cafes, clothing stores and fitness studios. The JCC will anchor the new site, which eventually could house up to 20 other Jewish nonprofits.
“The JCC East Bay has never really followed a traditional model,” said Melissa Chapman, CEO of JCC East Bay. “The campus will be a comprehensive destination for anyone interested in participating in Jewish life. [It] will become the center of Jewish life and will allow our JCC, and our community, to reach its fullest potential.”
The JCC of San Francisco’s own reassessment has resulted in partnerships with organizations including Congregation Emanu-El; the Jewish Baby Network; JIMENA, which preserves and celebrates the heritage of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews; and Value Culture, a philanthropic and cultural venture.
“No other institution in Jewish communal life is as open and accessible and dedicated to serving the broad range of Jewish community as JCCs.”
Jordan
CEO, Peninsula JCC
“The JCCSF is a vibrant hub and nexus for Jewish life and culture,” said JCCSF CEO Paul Geduldig. “We create our own high-quality programs, and we are leaning into partnerships with other Jewish organizations to reach broader audiences and to amplify each other’s work.”
In 2023, the JCCSF and Value Culture, the nonprofit founded by Adam Swig, began developing and cross-promoting programs for Jews in their 20s and 30s. Events included a “Soy Vey Shabbat” to celebrate the Chinese New Year, and a Black-Jewish “Soul Vey Havdalah” with a New Orleans-style marching band that led S.F. Jewish Film Festival attendees as they walked from the Vogue Theater to the nearby JCCSF.
Partnerships such as these have brought thousands of people into JCCSF this year, Geduldig noted.
For Swig, the partnership is appealing because Value Culture and JCCSF share community-building goals, he said. “Not to mention the JCCSF building is incredible,” he added.
According to the Brandeis study, the JCCs that have forged such partnerships with one another, with other Jewish and non-Jewish groups and with the community at large have been rewarded.
“In each instance, much was gained from the relationship, including higher quality, stronger community, greater efficiency, increased revenue and deeper purpose,” the study said. Many of those lessons from the research also apply to synagogues and other Jewish organizations.
JCCs serve a significant number of nonJews too, and arguably that’s never been
more crucial to the centers’ future.
“We do Jewish with non-Jews, and it’s a really important role for us in the community,” said Peninsula JCC’s Shenker, noting that two-thirds of visitors to its center are non-Jews.
“That means if we’re seeing 2,500 people a day, we have 1,500 to 1,800 non-Jews walking through the doors,” Shenker said. “Whether it’s a Jewish art exhibit or a display on antisemitism, we have a really powerful opportunity to educate the non-Jewish community and create partners of understanding.” n
Shenker,
The JCCSF contingent marching during the Pride Parade in San Francisco in June 2023. Thousands packed Market Street and flooded the city with rainbows. (Photo/Aaron Levy-Wolins)
The JCC East Bay partnered with Rabbi Jessica Kate Meyer to offer an evening of music, dance and spirituality. (Photo/Courtesy)
Celebrated starting Fridays at sundown to commemorate God’s day of rest after six days of creation. Traditions include lighting candles, drinking wine and eating challah (braided bread). Havdalah, a ceremony of farewell to Shabbat, takes place when three stars appear in the Saturday night sky. Rituals include lighting a braided candle, drinking wine and smelling sweet spices.
Rosh Hashanah
JEWISH NEW YEAR
This joyous celebration ushers in a period of festivities, introspection, blessings and penitence. Traditional foods include round challah and apples with honey, symbolizing wholeness and sweetness for the new year. It begins the Ten Days of Awe, which culminate on Yom Kippur. 1–2 Tishrei
Yom Kippur
DAY OF ATONEMENT
The holiest day of the Jewish year. Through fasting and prayer, Jews reflect upon their relationships with other people and with God, atoning for wrongdoings and resolving to do better. It ends at sunset with a blast of the shofar (ram’s horn).
10 Tishrei
Sukkot
FESTIVAL OF BOOTHS
Commemorates the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring the Israelites to the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering in the desert. Many people erect a sukkah (booth), a temporary structure with a roof made of branches, modeled after the huts built in the desert. Celebrations include eating foods of the harvest and shaking the lulav (assemblage of palm, willow and myrtle branches) and etrog (a citrus fruit).
15–21 Tishrei
Shemini Atzeret
EIGHTH DAY OF ASSEMBLY
Celebrated at the end of Sukkot and sometimes considered an extension of that holiday. Marks the first time the prayer for rain is recited during services, a practice that continues until Pesach. 22 Tishrei
Simchat Torah
REJOICING FOR THE TORAH
Celebrates the completion of the annual Torah-reading cycle. After reading the last sentence of Devarim (Deuteronomy), the Torah is joyously paraded seven times around the synagogue. The new cycle begins immediately with reading the first words of Beresheet (Genesis). 23 Tishrei
Hanukkah
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
This eight-day holiday commemorates the triumph over Syrian-Greek oppression and the rededication of the Temple, when oil meant to last for one day burned miraculously for eight. Jews light candles in a hanukkiah (nine-branched menorah), eat latkes (potato pancakes) or sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), play with dreidels (spinning tops) and give money or gifts. 25 Kislev–2 Tevet
NEW YEAR OF TREES
Biblical in origin, this holiday celebrates springtime renewal and growth. Traditions include seders with wine and symbolic fruits, planting trees and caring for the environment. 15 Shevat
Purim
FEAST OF LOTS
Marked by raucous merriment, this holiday celebrates the rescue of the
Jews by Queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai from the evil Haman. During the chanting of the Megillah (Book of Esther), whenever Haman is mentioned, celebrants shout and shake graggers (noisemakers) to drown out his name. Traditions include costume parties, skits, mishloach manot (gifts of food) and eating hamantaschen (three-cornered, fruit-filled pastries).
14 Adar
Pesach
PASSOVER
Celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. At the seder, celebrants read the haggadah (collection of texts and commentaries on the Exodus) and share a festive meal with symbolic foods. In remembrance of the departure of the Israelites, who could not wait for their bread to rise before fleeing, Jews eat matzah (unleavened bread) for eight days (seven days for Israeli, Reform and Reconstructionist Jews) and refrain from most grains.
15–22 Nissan
Sefirat HaOmer
COUNTING OF THE OMER
Seven-week period begins the second night of Pesach, ending at Shavuot. The 49 days are a time of anticipation for the giving of the Torah as well as a period of semi-mourning, recalling the deaths of Rabbi Akiva’s students. Traditionally, weddings, festivities and haircuts are prohibited during this time, except on Lag Ba’ Omer. 16 Nissan–5 Sivan
Yom HaShoah
HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY
Day of mourning for the millions killed in the Holocaust. Services honor survivors and remember the dead with prayers and yahrzeit (memorial) candles. In Israel, a siren’s blast announces two minutes of silence. 27 Nissan
Yom HaZikaron
MARTYR AND HEROES’ MEMORIAL DAY
Day of remembrance for fallen soldiers and those who died for the State of Israel. Public observances include lighting yahrzeit candles, visiting graves and reciting psalms. In Israel, siren blasts signal a minute of silence the evening before, and two minutes of silence the morning of Yom HaZikaron.
4 Iyar
Yom HaAtzmaut
ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY
On May 14, 1948, Israel achieved statehood. Jews worldwide celebrate with parades, festivals and donations to Jewish charities.
5 Iyar
Lag Ba’ Omer
THIRTY-THIRD DAY OF THE OMER
One-day suspension of the Sefirat HaOmer mourning period. Some say a plague afflicting Rabbi Akiva’s students ceased on this day. Celebrated with picnics and outings in nature. 18 Iyar
Shavuot
FESTIVAL OF WEEKS
Commemorates the giving of the Torah at Sinai and the spring harvest. Traditionally, Jews read the Ten Commandments and the Book of Ruth and eat dairy products.
6–7 Sivan
Fast of Tammuz
Fast from dawn until nightfall marks the day Moses broke the first Tablets of the Covenant because the Israelites made the Golden Calf. It also marks the start of the siege on Jerusalem and begins a three-week mourning period ending at Tisha B’Av.
17 Tammuz
Tisha B’Av
NINTH DAY OF AV
Day of fasting and deep mourning commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples. The Book of Lamentations is read at services, and in some synagogues congregants sit on the floor.
9 Av
Holidays begin at sunset the preceding evening
Rosh Hashanah
October 3-4, 2024
September 23-24, 2025
Yom Kippur
October 12, 2024
October 2, 2025
Sukkot (holy days)
October 17-18, 2024
October 7-8, 2025
Shemini Atzeret
October 24, 2024
October 14, 2025
Simchat Torah
October 25, 2024
Ocrober 15, 2025
Hanukkah
December 26, 2024-January 2, 2025
December 15-22, 2025
Tu B’Shevat
February 13, 2025
February 2, 2026
Purim
March 14, 2025
March 3, 2026
Pesach
April 13-20, 2025
April 2-9, 2026
Yom HaShoah
April 24, 2025
April 14, 2026
Yom HaZikaron
April 30, 2025
April 21, 2026
Yom HaAtzmaut
May 1, 2025
April 22, 2026
Lag B’Omer
May 16, 2025
May 5, 2026
Shavuot
June 2-3, 2025
May 22-23, 2026
Fast of Tammuz (commemorated from dawn until nightfall)
July 13, 2025
July 2, 2026
Tisha B’Av
August 19, 2024
August 9, 2025
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
This chapter features resources for the observance and celebration of Jewish lifecycle events and milestones. This includes birth, adoption, infertility issues, circumcision, bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings and funerals. Need a rabbi to conduct a Jewish ceremony or an interfaith wedding? Check out these pages. Listings include organizations that help with Jewish adoption, infertility issues and holy rituals, including the mikvah, used for spiritual purification. This chapter also lists Jewish cemeteries as well as chevra kadishas, which ensure that the deceased is prepared for burial according to Jewish tradition. Because the Bay Area Jewish community is diverse, this directory provides both the names of those who officiate at traditional circumcisions as well as an organization serving Jews who opt out of circumcision. With alternative ideas given expression, organizations have sprung up in the Bay Area to provide service and support to those seeking new ways of “doing Jewish.”
General Resources
Local congregations, individual rabbis, agencies and organizations provide support, advice, counseling and services to assist individuals and families during various lifecycle events. Congregations and additional religious organizations are listed in Chapter 4, Religious Life & Congregations.
Rabbi Howard Steiermann* (415) 695-9155
sfhoward.com
hsteiermann@gmail.com
Hosts and guests share in a personalized and heartfelt event. Interdenominational, multicultural, traditional or nontraditional ceremonies throughout the Bay Area.
Birth, Adoption & Circumcision
Jewish Baby Network
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
200 Channing Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 688-3080
jewishbabynetwork.org
carol@jewishbabynetwork.org
Director: Carol Booth
Marketing Manager: Alyssa Zagorie Serves Bay Area. Families of all kinds with babies and toddlers connect, share and celebrate together. Free events held at various locations and online.
ADOPTION & INFERTILITY
Adoption Connection 1710 Scott St. P.O. Box 159004 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 359-2494 adoptionconnection.org families@adoptionconnection.org
Provides support and services to adoptive parents and birth mothers during and after pregnancy. Full-service, nonprofit, licensed adoption agency and open adoption leader. A division of S.F.-based Jewish Family and Children’s Services.
Donor Concierge
165 North Redwood Drive, Suite 202 San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 663-6097
Egg donor and surrogate search service that help Jewish parents find Jewish egg donors and surrogate mothers.
BRIT BAT/SIMCHAT BAT (Rejoicing for Daughter )
The birth of a baby girl is traditionally marked in the synagogue when her father or parents are called to the Torah on the Sabbath to give the newborn her Hebrew name. The past decade has seen the development of various naming ceremonies for girls. In fact, there is a growing liturgy around the brit bat, and various alternative rituals have been proposed. This ritual is frequently performed on the eighth day of a baby girl’s life.
BRIT MILAH (CIRCUMCISION)
The ritual of brit milah is performed to symbolize the covenant between God and the people of Israel. The brit (or bris) takes place on the eighth day of a male baby’s life (provided there are no health problems).
(provided there are no health problems). Traditionally, the brit is performed by a mohel, a ritual circumciser familiar with the relevant laws and customs.
Urologist: Joel Piser, M.D. Hand/plastic surgeon: Jing Hsieh Piser, M.D.
Bay Area urologist/hand surgeon; husband/ wife mohelim team, trained and certified by Hebrew Union College; performs personalized, spiritually enlightening brit milah and hatafat dam brit (for previously circumcised converts) since 1991.
Eric Tabas, M.D.
450 Sutter St. Suite 1324
San Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 397-2331 Fax: (415) 397-4225 erictabasmd.com erictabasmdinc@gmail.com
Board certified OB/GYN, as well as a board-certified Reform mohel practicing in San Francisco for over 20 years. Personalizes each brit milah ceremony to joyfully celebrate life.
Traditional
Rabbi Avi Lebowitz (650) 207-4956 baymohel.com avilebo@gmail.com
Rabbi Lebowitz has been doing bris ceremonies and infant circumcision in the Bay Area for well over a decade, guiding and assisting families through this major milestone.
Rabbi Gil Leeds (510) 730-BRIS (2747) bayareamohel.com rabbileeds@bayareamohel.com
Certified traditional mohel, trained by expert mohelim including Rabbi Chanan Feld z”l. Caring and professional, serves Jewish families of varied observance levels.
Certified mohel and board-certified pediatrician performs traditional, personalized and enriching brit milah ceremonies. Inclusive of all affiliations. Pain control/ local anesthetic used.
Stuart Avram Zangwill, M.D. (510) 384-8363 zmohel.com zmohel@gmail.com
Performs spiritual, meaningful brit milah ceremonies for all affiliations and interfaith couples. Board certified in both pediatrics and pediatric hospital medicine with over 25 years experience performing circumcisions with anesthesia/pain control.
ALTERNATIVES TO BRIT MILAH
Ceremony for families opting out of circumcision.
Bruchim (510) 693-6677 bruchim.online info@bruchim.online President and Co-founder: Lisa Braver Moss Nonprofit that sparks Jewish engagement and fosters welcoming spaces for noncircumcising Jews.
PIDYON HABEN (First-Born Redemption )
A pidyon haben, redemption of a son, takes place 30 days after the birth of a first-born baby boy. The tradition is based on the belief that first-born sons were to serve God in the Temple. To redeem them from that obligation, five shekels were given to the Temple priests, who then served in the Temple instead. The ceremony today usually involves a symbolic charitable donation.
Bar & Bat Mitzvah
Typically celebrated in the synagogue, the bar/bat mitzvah marks a young person becoming an adult member of the community. Traditionally, the 13-year-old is called upon to recite the Torah blessings and to read a Haftorah, a selection from the prophets. Variations on the ceremony exist. Study programs are also available throughout
the community for adult men or women who missed the opportunity to celebrate a bar/bat mitzvah as a teenager. Synagogues provide bar and bat mitzvah training.
Confirmation
For Reform and some Conservative Jews, the confirmation year (10th or 11th grade) represents a special time of celebration and commitment. It includes study and meetings with the rabbi, culminating in a special service, often held during the Shavuot holiday, which commemorates the receiving of the Torah by the Jewish people.
Mikvah
A ritual pool of fresh “living” water, the mikvah is used for spiritual purification. For some Jews, married life involves laws of taharat hamishpacha (family purity), which require a wife’s monthly immersion in a mikvah after menstruation before she reunites with her husband. The mikvah is used today by some brides and grooms before their wedding. Jews-by-choice traditionally visit the mikvah as part of their conversion process.
Steady Hands
A Warm Heart. Thousands of Happy Parents. All levels of observance Interfaith & all family types warmly welcomed
The Bay Area’s most exprienced & only fulltime mohel • 7000+ procedures
Berkeley MikvahMikvas Chana Leah 2520 Warring St. Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 224-3770 berkeleymikvah.org info@berkeleymikvah.org
Mikvah Directors: Bracha Sara Leeds
Rabbi Gil Yosef Leeds Mikvah Education: Miriam Ferris
Nightly women’s appointments, available by phone or online.
Beth Jacob Community Mikvah 3778 Park Blvd. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 482-1147 bethjacoboakland.org events@bethjacoboakland.org
No attendant on duty. Please email for an appointment.
Community Mikvah Levy Family Campus 14855 Oka Road Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7444/ Fax: (408) 358-7311 jvalley.org/mikvah mikvah@jvalley.org
The Levy Family Campus welcomes the use of its mikvah for all Jewish religious and spiritual life transitions and passages.
Dryan Family Mikvah 3070 Louis Road Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 424-9800 chabadpaloalto.com/mikvah Contacts: Dena Levin, Devorah Levin
Need to rejuvenate? Think mikvah! Provides nightly appointments for married women from all Jewish backgrounds and classes for brides and beginners.
Mikvah Chaya Mushka
Chabad of Marin 1150 Idylberry Road
San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 610-6202
cukierg@gmail.com
Contact: Guila Rice
By appointment. Call the number above.
Mikvah Society of San Jose* 1670 Phantom Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 460-3675/ (408) 264-3138
Fax: by request only bergman.d@sbcglobal.net
Contact: Pat Bergman
By appointment and for women only. Please call at least three days in advance. $20 donation requested. Please prepare at home and bring your own towel, etc.
San Francisco Mikvah 3355 Sacramento St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 921-4070
sfmikvah.org
sfmikvah@gmail.com
The mikvah is available by appointment only. Please schedule a minimum of two days in advance on website.
Marriage
Marriage within the Jewish community is packed with familial, social and religious considerations. Jewish weddings are often a joining not only of two individuals and their families, but also of different parts of the community. Above all, a wedding is a simcha, a commandment in which the bride and groom rejoice.
The main elements of a wedding are kiddushin and erusin (sanctification of
betrothal), the betrothal blessing, presentation of the ring, reading of the ketubah (marriage contract) and its presentation to the bride, recitation of the seven marriage blessings, drinking of wine to sanctify the marriage, and breaking of the glass (to remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem even on joyous occasions).
Additional traditions are the bedeken, in which the groom places the veil over his bride’s face, and the encircling of the groom by the bride. Most Jews planning to marry turn to a rabbi or synagogue for some aspect of the wedding. Marriage preparation classes are offered in many branches of Jewish Family & Children’s Services, listed in Chapter 6, Social Services.
MARRIAGE OFFICIATING
Also see Chapter 4, Religious Life & Congregations.
Rabbi Howard Steiermann* (415) 695-9155 sfhoward.com hsteiermann@gmail.com
Hosts and guests share in a personalized and heartfelt event through a welcoming style. Interdenominational, multicultural, traditional or nontraditional ceremonies throughout the Bay Area.
Chanukat Habayit
In the traditional ceremony of “dedicating the home,” a mezuzah is put up within 30 days of moving into a new home. A mezuzah is a small container that holds a handwritten scroll of parchment with Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21 on the front side and the word Shaddai (Almighty) on the back. The passages contain the Shema, considered the watchword of Jewish faith, proclaiming the oneness of God. The mezuzah is placed on the upper third of the doorpost, on the right side as one enters.
Divorce
Couples contemplating divorce are urged to consult with a rabbi regarding the advisability of obtaining a religious divorce in addition to a civil divorce.
Rabbinical Court for Jewish Divorce (650) 857-1800
Fax: (650) 857-0601
rabbi@emekberacha.org
Administrator: Rabbi Yitzchok Feldman
Arranges for the get, the halachic divorce document, to be executed in a manner recognized as legitimate throughout the world, including by the Rabbanut in Israel.
Death
The Jewish traditions related to death and mourning are intended to recognize death as a part of life. Burial takes place as soon after death as possible. Traditional caskets are of plain wood, embalming and viewing of the body are shunned, and flowers are discouraged. Rabbis should be consulted for specific questions about burial and mourning practices such as the observance of shiva, recitation of the Kaddish, yahrzeit
observance and attending yizkor services. Funeral homes and chevra kadishas (burial societies) can also answer questions.
BEREAVEMENT
Bereavement and Healing Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties 2150 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1212 jfcs.org adultintake@jfcs.org
Bereavement Program Coordinator: Robyn Bloom, LMFT
Comprehensive grief and bereavement services for those coping with loss. Services include individual counseling, grief support groups, information and referrals.
Bereavement Services
Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay 2484 Shattuck Ave., Suite 210 Berkeley, CA 94704 (925) 927-2000 jfcs-eastbay.org/our-services/ bereavement-support-group/ info@jfcs-eastbay.org
Counseling and support in a warm, Jewish context for those coping with grief after the death of a loved one.
Hineni: Pastoral and Grief Counseling with Rabbi Jon Sommer (415) 745-0659 rabbijonsommer.com rabbijonsommer@gmail.com
The rabbi, a HUC graduate trained in clinical pastoral education, has provided compassionate pastoral grief care for over 25 years, including with Bay Area Jewish Healing Center. Sessions in person, in nature and with horses.
Sinai Memorial Chapel Mourner Care Program 1501 Divisadero St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 921-3636/ Fax: (415) 673-3407 sinaichapel.org lorlin@sinaichapel.org Executive Director: Liz Orlin
Compassionate and professional grief support. Personalized outreach for mourners. Up to three sessions provided free of charge to all mourners in the community.
RITUAL PREPARATION
Chevra Kadisha of Sonoma County (707) 322-1631 (707) 546-6043
To honor the dead and strengthen the living: Community-based, the chevra kadisha is available to all Sonoma County Jews, regardless of affiliation or level of Jewish observance.
Clergy provide guidance and spiritual support to families experiencing a loss. Ritual cleansing provided by the Chevra Kadisha group.
Chevra Kadisha of the East Bay at Home of Peace Cemetery
Beth Jacob Congregation 3778 Park Blvd. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 409-5344
bethjacoboakland.org
kathy@bethjacoboakland.org
Administrator: Kathy Hollander
Orthodox burial society and cemetery. Administered by Beth Jacob Congregation.
bergman.d@sbcglobal.net
President and Men’s Arrangements: Menashe David Taban
Contact and Women’s Arrangements: Pat Bergman
Orthodox Jewish volunteers will prepare any Jewish deceased in the Greater South Bay Area for burial at the request of the family. Tax-deductible donations are welcome to help cover expenses and funerals for indigent Jews.
FUNERALS
For
Chevra Kadisha of the South Bay c/o Congregation Am Echad 1504 Meridian Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 jmemorial.org
Sinai Memorial Chapel and Chevra Kadisha* sinaichapel.org
San Francisco Funeral Home (FD262) 1501 Divisadero St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 921-3636
Fax: (415) 673-3407
lorlin@sinaichapel.org
Executive Director: Liz Orlin
Operations Manager: Robert T. Perez, FDR 1662
East Bay Funeral Home (FD1523) 3415 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 962-3636/ Fax: (925) 962-1636
Peninsula Funeral Home (FD1830) 3921 Fabian Way, Suite A024
Palo Alto, CA 94104 (650) 369-3636/ Fax: (650) 369-3630
dhabib@sinaichapel.org
Managing Funeral Director: David Habib
Executive Director: Liz Orlin
The only full-service Jewish funeral home/ chevra kadisha serving the entire Jewish community since 1901. At-need and preneed funeral and cemetery arrangements. Community-owned, not-for-profit.
CEMETERIES
The Commission for the Preservation of Pioneer Jewish Cemeteries and Landmarks in the West P.O. Box 861 Garden Valley, CA 95633 (831) 607-9509 pioneerjewishcemeteries.org pioneerjewishcemeteries@gmail.com
Custodian of the Pioneer Jewish Cemeteries in the California Gold Country, dating to the 1850s: Sonora, Mokelumne Hill, Jackson, Placerville, Nevada City, Grass Valley and Marysville.
Hold History in Your Hand
East Bay
Gan Shalom Cemetery*
1100 Bear Creek Road
Briones, CA 94553
(925) 228-3636
ganshalomcemetery.org
rmartinez@sinaichapel.org
Cemetery Administrator: Rachel Martinez
Managing Funeral Director, East Bay: Josh Alpert
Home of Peace Cemetery
4712 Fairfax Ave. Oakland, CA 94601 (510) 409-5344
bethjacoboakland.org
kathy@bethjacoboakland.org
Administrator: Kathy Hollander Orthodox cemetery and burial society administered by Beth Jacob Congregation.
North Bay
B’nai Israel Cemetery 430 Magnolia Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 338-8634
office@bnaiisrael.net
Provides burial and interment options for all Jewish people and their loved ones on 82 acres in Contra Costa County. On-site chapel accommodates up to 75 guests.
Family Services Counselor: Priscila Mendieta Natural burial at Fernwood uses no embalming, no grave liners or vaults. A simple, dignified burial in a shroud or plain wood box.
Kol Shalom Jewish Cemetery of Marin*
Congregation Kol Shofar
Mail to: 215 Blackfield Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 (415) 215-4429 kolshofar.org/kol-shalom stevensock54@gmail.com
Contact: Steven Sockolov
Bucolic cemetery in Marin County serving affiliated and unaffiliated Jews who want to be buried in an all-inclusive Jewish cemetery.
Ner Shalom Progressive Cemetery
Pleasant Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary 1700 Pleasant Hill Road Sebastopol, CA 95472 (707) 823-5042 pleasanthillsmemorialpark.com info@pleasanthillsmemorialpark.com
Cemetery in picturesque Pleasant Hills Memorial Park in Sebastopol. Available to entire Jewish community: members and non-members, Jewish or non-Jewish
spouses and family members. Sites for both full-body and cremated remains.
Ner Tamid Jewish Cemetery
Congregation Beth Shalom of Napa
St. Helena Cemetery
2461 Spring St. St. Helena, CA 94574 (707) 253-7305
cbsnapa.org/ner-tamid office@cbsnapa.org
Cemetery Chair: Phyllis Kleid
North Bay cemetery is located in the scenic 160-year-old St. Helena Cemetery. Community cemetery open to Jews and their families regardless of affiliation.
Located atop a knoll in San Rafael. Offers magnificent views of the Bay and Mt. Tamalpais. Ideal choice for those who love natural beauty.
Peninsula/South Bay
Beth David Memorial Garden
Congregation Beth David 19700 Prospect Road Saratoga, CA 95070 (408) 257-3333 beth-david.org admin@beth-david.org
Director Operations & Ritual: Barbara Biran
Attractively landscaped memorial garden located in San Jose is preserved as sacred ground. Offers Jewish burial sites and pastoral solitude to mourners.
Gan Emeth Cemetery
Congregation Emeth/ Emeth Gardens
Gavilan Hills Memorial Park 1000 First St. Gilroy, CA 95020 (408) 778-8200 emeth.net/cemetery ritual@emeth.net
Expanded and landscaped cemetery serves the needs of the South Bay Jewish community. Unaffiliated welcome. Single and double-depth burials, cremation options. Natural setting.
HOME OF PEACE
Cemetery and Mausoleum
Gan Hazikaron/Garden of Remembrance Cemetery*
Peninsula Temple Beth El Highway 92 at Skyline Blvd. San Mateo, CA 94403 (650) 341-7701 ptbe.org/gan-hazikaron kbeauchamp@ptbe.org
Director of Operations & Facilities: Kim Beauchamp
Serves the Jewish community of the Peninsula. One of Northern California’s most picturesque memorial parks, overlooking the coastal hills. Maintained by Peninsula Temple Beth El.
South Bay Area’s only Jewish-owned Cemetery, Mausoleum and Columbarium
Honoring the Jewish community’s traditions with attractive, affordable space available in Shalom Garden. Burial, cremation and a wide variety of permanent memorialization options available.
San Francisco
Eternal Home Cemetery
1051 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014 (650) 755-5236
Fax: (415) 673-3407 sinaichapel.org
lorlin@sinaichapel.org
Executive Director: Liz Orlin Cemetery Superintendent: Kelly Bonillas
This 25-acre nonprofit Jewish cemetery provides burial and interment options for all Jewish people and their loved ones with a certified green section and a dedicated Orthodox section.
Jewish Cemeteries of San Francisco* (650) 755-4700 jcemsf.org
Executive Director: Susan Solomon ssolomon@jcemsf.org
Hills of Eternity Memorial Park
Owned by Congregation Sherith Israel 1299 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014
Home of Peace Cemetery
Owned by Congregation Emanu-El 1299 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014
Fax: (650) 756-4731
Salem Memorial Park
Owned by Congregation Emanu-El and Congregation Sherith Israel 1171 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014
Fax: (650) 756-4731
Serving the Bay Area’s Jewish community since 1877.
Santa Cruz/Monterey
Gan Hazikaron
Mission Memorial Park 5716 Carmel Valley Road 1915 Ord Grove Ave. Seaside, CA 93955 (831) 624-2015
carmelbethisrael.org shalom@carmelbethisrael.org
Consecrated cemetery owned by Congregation Beth Israel.
Burials take place in one of two attractive cemeteries: Home of Peace Cemetery on Meder Street or Beit Olam Cemetery in Soquel.
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
Two cats, Gata and Lana, are known for comforting mourners in their grief. (Photo/Aaron Levy-Wolins)
CONVERSIONS INTERFAITH PROGRAMS CONGREGATIONS TEMPLES COUNCILS CHABAD RABBINICAL ORGANIZATIONS 4 | Religious Life & Congregations
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Religious & Rabbinical Organizations
Cantorial and Rabbinic Association of Greater San Jose (CRAGSJ) 14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7413 jvalley.org/community-relations/ rabbis-cantors/ rabbihugh@jvalley.org
Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia
Clergy arm of the Jewish community in the South Bay. Represents all facets of Judaism. Information and referral services for Jewish lifecycle events.
Northern California Board of Rabbis 8 Eldridge Court Kensington, CA 94707 (408) 550-6525 norcalrabbis.org lynae@norcalrabbis.org
Administrator: Lynae Novominsky
Executive Director: Rabbi Jill Zimmerman
Nourishes rabbinic collegial relationships among different streams of Judaism throughout Northern California. Serves as a moral voice and resource for the Jewish community. Supporting rabbis strengthens Northern California Jewry.
Orthodox Rabbinical Council of San Francisco P.O. Box 22491 San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 564-6769
orcsf@aol.com
Chair: Rabbi Jacob Traub
Specializies in kosher certification for Northern California and the Central Valley.
Vaad of Northern California –Sunrise Kosher Main Office: 3316 Mayfair Drive Sacramento, CA 95864
(510) 843-8223/ Fax: (510) 217-3596
sunrisekosher.org
bzwelton@sunrisekosher.org
Chief Executive Officer: Rabbi Ben-Tzion Welton
Rabbinic Administrator: Rabbi Avi Lebowitz
Kosher certification agency for all food service and industrial food production in Northern California. For all questions regarding kosher certification, call Rabbi Ben-Tzion Welton; for rabbinical questions, call and ask for Rabbi Avi Lebowitz.
Women of Reform Judaism
Pacific District wrjpacific.org
Treasurer. rjpd@gmail.com
President: Carol Schuster
Women’s organization of Reform synagogues. Pacific District provides leadership training, speakers, spirituality and support for sisterhoods.
Congregations
Because Bay Area residents come from a variety of communities and backgrounds, our synagogues take pride in being warm, welcoming and inclusive. Call individual synagogues for information about schedules for services, holiday worship, bar/bat mitzvah training, religious schools, day care, children’s and adult classes and special program Offerss.
EAST BAY
Chabad
Chabad Center for Jewish Life 3014 Lakeshore Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 545-6770
Serves the communities of Oakland and Piedmont. Promotes Jewish identity and pride, study and celebration in the East Bay. Membership not required.
Chabad Emeryville
1300 55th St. Emeryville, CA 94608 (510) 859-8808
jewishemeryville.com chabademeryville@gmail.com
Rabbi Mendy Blank
Rebbetzin Menucha Blank
Jewish community that feels like home. Offers adult education classes, community holiday celebrations, and services, all with a warm heart.
Chabad House Berkeley 1710 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94703 (510) 540-5824
chabadberkeley.org office@chabadberkeley.org
Rabbi Yehuda Ferris
Spreading Jewish joy and inspiration, mikvah education, adult education, holiday celebrations and Shabbat services. Hebrew school, bar/bat mitzvah training, children’s winter and summer camp, prison and hospital visitation. Jewish Lending Library.
Chabad Jewish Center of Richmond
Call or email for address (510) 255-3121 chabadofrichmond.com info@chabadofrichmond.com
Director: Rabbi Yitzchok Wagner
Co-director: Rebbetzin Rochel Wagner
Torah classes and lectures, Shabbat dinners and an array of family and social activities. Traditional Jewish values brought to life in a joyous, nonjudgmental atmosphere. No membership required.
Chabad of Alameda 1516 Oak St. Suite 316 Alameda, CA 94501 (510) 640-2590
jewishalameda.com info@jewishalameda.com
Director: Rabbi Meir Shmotkin
Provides a home for every Jew in Alameda, with educational, religious and social events.
Chabad of Castro Valley 21666 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546 (510) 342-9326
jewishcastrovalley.org
rabbi@jewishcastrovalley.org
Rabbi Shimon Gruzman Chani Gruzman
A home for every Jew. Dedicated to making the beauty and joys of Jewish traditions and heritage accessible, relevant and meaningful. Provides education for all Jews regardless of age, affiliation, knowledge or level of observance.
Chabad of Concord P.O. Box 55 Concord, CA 94522 (925) 326-1613
Creating a vibrant Jewish community that will promote and strengthen Jewish awareness, pride and community through educational, cultural and social activities for all Jews of all ages in the Concord area.
Chabad of Contra Costa 1671 Newell Ave. Walnut Creek, CA 94595 (925) 937-4101
jewishcontracosta.com jli@jewishcontracosta.com
Rabbi Dovber Berkowitz
Serves the Contra Costa Jewish community: adult education, Hebrew school, preschool, holiday programs and events, bar/bat mitzvah celebrations, Shabbat and holiday prayer services. Membership not necessary.
Chabad of Danville and San Ramon 4125 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Danville, CA 94506 (925) 272-9672 jewishdanville.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Shmuli Raitman Musky Raitman
Strengthens Jewish awareness and pride for the Jewish residents of Danville/San Ramon by creating an environment where every person, regardless of background or affiliation, is welcome to explore and experience their heritage.
Chabad of El Cerrito 704 Midcrest Way El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 455-2770
chabadelcerrito.com info@chabadelcerrito.com
Rabbi Yanky Bell
Mrs. Shternie Bell
Serves the community of El Cerrito. Promotes Jewish identity and pride, study and celebration. Adult education, Hebrew school, bar/bat mitzvah preparation, Shabbat and holiday programming and social services. No membership required.
Chabad of Fremont Jewish Center 4251 Peralta Blvd. Fremont, CA 94536 (510) 300-4090/ Fax: (888) 863-4096 chabadfremont.com info@chabadfremont.com
Director: Rabbi Moshe Fuss
Co-director: Chaya Fuss
Serves the Tri-City area with a synagogue, preschool, Hebrew school, holiday programs, classes, lifecycle services, women’s events and social programs. Membership not required.
Chabad of Lamorinda 3477 Golden Gate Way Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 384-7242
Popular center for Jews who want to learn more about their Jewish roots. Offers a wide variety of educational and spiritual opportunities, including Torah classes and lectures, Shabbaton dinners and family and social activities.
Chabad of San Leandro 1367 Breckenridge St. San Leandro, CA 94579 (347) 419-6541 jewishsanleandro.com
Creating a vibrant Jewish community that will promote and strengthen Jewish awareness and pride, through educational, cultural and social activities for all Jews living in San Leandro.
Chabad of the Delta 400 Guthrie Lane Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 420-4999 jewishdelta.com info@jewishdelta.com
Provides adult education, Shabbat and holiday dinners, programs and events, women’s group, Hebrew school and hospital visitations. Membership not required.
Chabad of the Tri-Valley 3370 Hopyard Road Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 846-0700 jewishtrivalley.com info@jewishtrivalley.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Raleigh Resnic Fruma Resnick
Based in Pleasanton, a community center of Jewish life, joy, prayer and learning serving the Tri-Valley’s Jewish community.
Conservative
Congregation B’nai Shalom 74 Eckley Lane Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 934-9446/ Fax: (925) 934-9450 bshalom.org office@bshalom.org
Rabbi Daniel Stein
Executive Director: Stuart Kirsch
Traditional Conservative synagogue providing a learning community enriching Jewish knowledge and experiences for all ages. Preschool from one year to pre-K and religious school.
Congregation Netivot Shalom
1316 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94702 (510) 549-9447/ Fax: (510) 549-9448 netivotshalom.org ken@netivotshalom.org
Rabbi Chai Levy
Executive Director: Ken Schnur
Egalitarian and participatory, welcoming intermarried and nontraditional households. Religious services, b’nai mitzvah program, adult education, social action, Torah study, preschool. R ESOURCE
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
Temple Beth Abraham*
327 MacArthur Blvd.
Mail to: 336 Euclid Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 832-0936 ext 210 tbaoakland.org admin@tbaoakland.org
Rabbi Mark Bloom
Executive Director: Rayna Arnold
Living Judaism together as an egalitarian, participatory, vibrant congregation, provides services for preschool, bar/bat mitzvah, confirmation and adulthood. Celebrating Judaism, enjoying Shabbat and holiday celebrations since 1907.
Temple Beth Abraham
USCJ Affiliated
Amazing Preschool
Outstanding Religious School
Truly Intergenerational and Inclusive
Rabbi Mark Bloom
Visit us at services, view our website or call our office for information
Kol Hadash Northern California Community for Humanistic Judaism Mail to: P.O. Box 2777 Berkeley, CA 94702 (510) 982-1455
kolhadash.org contact@kolhadash.org
President: Lindy Sinclair
Humanistic, nontheistic, lay-led monthly Shabbats, holiday services, bagel talks and educational programs celebrating Jewish identity, history and culture. Chavurot and social groups. Most events held at Albany Community Center.
Tri-Valley Cultural Jews
1817 Sinclair Drive Pleasanton, CA 94588 (925) 399-8029
trivalleyculturaljews.org culturaljews@gmail.com
Contact: Judith Seid
Progressive secular humanistic community identifying with the Jewish people through family, culture and history, rather than through religion. Bar/bat mitzvah, holidays, lifecycles, Sunday school.
Independent
Jewish Gateways
Mailing address: 1164 Solano Ave. Suite 147 Albany, CA 94706 (510) 545-9977
jewishgateways.org info@jewishgateways.org
Executive Director: Rabbi Bridget Wynne
Open and diverse Jewish community-without-walls in which to explore personal connections with Jewish tradition through holidays, family and adult learning, lifecycle events and more.
Minyan Dafna
minyandafna.org info@minyandafna.org
Independent, traditional egalitarian minyan. Monthly Kabbalat Shabbat and twice monthly Shabbat morning services; High Holy Day services and communal events throughout the year. Committed to halachah.
Nishmat Shalom
(510) 559-8372 / (510) 848-8996
nishmat.org
info@nishmat.org
Contacts: Ethel Murphy, Max Weinryb
Egalitarian, observant, feminist. Committed to inclusive liturgy and encouraging women’s leadership. Shabbat services in members’ homes. Men and women of all backgrounds and orientations are welcome.
Temple Beth Sholom 642 Dolores Ave.
San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 357-8505
Fax: (510) 357-1375 tbssanleandro.org
tbsoffice@tbssanleandro.org
Rabbi Josh Weisman
Cantor Linda Hirschhorn
Historic synagogue with forwardthinking membership, provides innovative programming while honoring tradition. Renewal cantor uses Reform and Conservative siddurim. Friday night services, monthly family Shabbat services and first Saturday morning services, online and in person.
Bay Area’s oldest Jewish Renewal community combining innovative and traditional approaches. Mostly on Zoom: weekday noon yeshiva classes, holidays, Shabbats, lifecycle events, guest speakers. Offers participatory worship, deep learning, meditation. Celebrating 50 years!
Beyt Tikkun: The Synagogue of Spiritual Transformation and Social Healing 951 Cragmont Ave. Berkeley, CA 94708 (510) 644-1200 beyttikkun.org rabbi@beyttikkun.org
Rabbi Michael Lerner
Intellectually and psychologically sophisticated, joyous, welcoming and compassionate. Participants find their spiritual path in a community at once religiously traditional and innovative and politically progressive.
Chochmat HaLev* 2215 Prince St. Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 704-9687 chochmat.org shalom@chochmat.org
A home for your Jewish heart. Dynamic Renewal synagogue with musical celebratory Shabbats, meditation, contemplative and transformative services. Walking distance from Ashby BART.
Kehilla Community Synagogue 1300 Grand Ave. Piedmont, CA 94610 (510) 547-2424
kehillasynagogue.org info@kehillasynagogue.org
Senior Rabbi Dev Noily Executive Director: Michael Saxe-Taller
Creative, spiritual, contemporary Judaism rooted in social justice. Exceptional education for kids in grades K-6 and a unique experiential b’nai mitzvah program. Everyone is welcome.
Orthodox
Beth Jacob Congregation 3778 Park Blvd. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 482-1147
bethjacoboakland.org office@bethjacoboakland.org
Rabbi Gershon Albert Executive Director: Brian Fox
Diverse Modern Orthodox synagogue offers services twice daily. Maintains kosher banquet hall and kitchens and offers classes, preschool, mikvah and unique programming for all ages.
Congregation Beth Israel 1630 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94703 (510) 843-5246 (510) 843-8052
Rabbanit: Meira Wolkenfeld Berkeley’s Modern Orthodox community is
vibrant and diverse. Indoor daily services, in-person and virtual youth and adult programming, ongoing adult education classes and lectures, engaged membership and inspirational leadership.
Reconstructionist
Or Zarua: Reconstructionist Havurah of the East Bay St. Alban’s Church 1501 Washington Ave. Albany, CA 94706 orzaruaeastbay.org info@orzaruaeastbay.org
Inclusive and progressive community based on Reconstructionist principles. Shabbat services alternate first Fridays and first Saturdays each month at St. Alban’s Church on the Berkeley-Albany border. Check website for calendar.
Highly engaged community provides preschool, religious school, b’nai mitzvah program, sisterhood, brotherhood, tikkun olam programs, chavurah, adult education, chesed support, Sharing Shabbat Together, Tot Shabbat and Ruach services. All backgrounds/interfaith families welcome.
B’nai Israel of Rossmoor
P.O. Box 2070
Walnut Creek, CA 94595 facebook.com/rossmoorbnaiIsrael
Membership Chair: Lucy Felcher
Leadership Group: Mike Harris
Meets at the Vista Room of the Hillside
BETH CHAIM CONGREGATION
Clubhouse Fridays at 7:30 p.m. High Holy Day services at Event Center, Tahoe Room; call for times. Everyone welcome.
Congregation Beth El 1301 Oxford St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-3988 bethelberkeley.org shalom@bethelberkeley.org
Senior Rabbi Rebekah Stern
Associate Rabbi & Director of Congregational Learning: Rabbi Ira Rosenberg
Vibrant and innovative Reform Jewish congregation dedicated to Jewish learning, worship, tikkun olam and acts of loving kindness.
Congregation Beth Emek
3400 Nevada Court Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 931-1055 bethemek.org bethemek@bethemek.org
Rabbi Laurence Elis Milder, Ph.D. Office Administrator: Bonnie Frey Shabbat services with guitar, lots of singing and inspiring sermons. Outstanding preschool, religious school and adult education. Caring community that welcomes all people on their Jewish journey.
Congregation B’nai Tikvah 25 Hillcroft Way Walnut Creek, CA 94597 (925) 933-5397 tikvah.org office@tikvah.org
Rabbi Jennie Chabon
Warm, engaging, spiritual home where tradition meets inspiration through deep learning, music-infused prayer, social justice, holiday celebrations and a thriving religious school.
• We ARE your Reform Jewish community in the East Bay.
• We celebrate life cycle events that will fill your Jewish soul.
• We learn. Our Tree of Life preschool, Beit Midrash, B’Nei Mitzvah and adult education programming provide lifelong enrichment of your Jewish experience.
• We are activists for social justice and Tikkun Olam.
• We embrace Jews of all backgrounds as well as interfaith relationships and those new to Judaism.
• We are your people, your community, a place to belong.
Brentwood Community Center 35 Oak St. Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 754-2545
bnaitorah-eastbay.org bnaitorah.eastbay@gmail.com
President: Denise Duran
Weekly services, holidays, events open to all. Interfaith and LGBTQ families welcome. Call for service schedule.
Congregation Shir Ami 4529 Malabar Ave. Castro Valley, CA 94546 (510) 537-1787 congshirami.org info@congshirami.org
President: Elizabeth Kamath
Intimate, inclusive, intergenerational Reform Jewish community that welcomes interfaith families.
Temple Beth Hillel* 801 Park Central Richmond, CA 94803 (510) 223-2560 tbhrichmond.org tbh@tbhrichmond.org
Rabbi Dean Kertesz Cantor Marney Margules
Shabbat services, religious school starting with pre-K, educational and cultural programs and events for all ages in a spiritual, warm and friendly environment.
Temple Beth Torah
Mail to: P.O. Box 6017 Fremont, CA 94538 42000 Paseo Padre Parkway Fremont, CA 94539 (510) 656-7141 Fax: (510) 656-5380 bethtorah-fremont.org engage@bethtorah-fremont.org
Rabbi Sarah Weissman
Membership and Engagement: Ann Danen Center of progressive Jewish life in the Tri-Cities. Vibrant preschool, music-infused prayer, relevant learning for all ages, meaningful interfaith engagement. ASL interpretation available upon request.
Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County 945 Risa Road
Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 283-8575
Fax: (925) 283-8355 temple-isaiah.org
temple-isaiah@temple-isaiah.org
Senior Rabbi Jill Perlman
Executive Director: Deb Kirsch
Provides a spiritually nurturing, intellectually challenging and socially active environment in which members of all ages can deepen their Jewish connections.
Temple Israel of Alameda
3183 Mecartney Road
Alameda, CA 94502-6912 (510) 522-9355 templeisraelalameda.org office@templeisraelalameda.org
Rabbi Cynthia Minster
President: Kimberlee MacVicar
The Jewish presence in Alameda for over 100 years — a welcoming, progressive Reform congregation for all ages.
Temple Sinai 2808 Summit St. Oakland, CA 94609 (510) 451-3263
Celebrates Jewish life with warmth, humor and tradition. All levels of knowledge and observance welcome. Community meals, catering, koshering services, lifecycle events. Celebrations, hospital visits, holidays, weekly services, educational classes for kids, teens and adults.
Chabad of Mill Valley 515 Throckmorton Ave. Mill Valley, CA 94941 (415) 336-3055
Holiday awareness programs, adult education, special children’s events, beginners Talmud, Judaism 101, Mommy & Me program, monthly women’s gathering, teenage study groups, Aleph Art Room.
Chabad of Napa Valley 2025 Redwood Road Suite 7 Napa, CA 94558 (707) 492-5993
jewishnapavalley.com info@jewishnapavalley.com
Rabbi Elchonon Tenenbaum
Dedicated to serving all Jews throughout Napa Valley with ahavat Yisrael: an unconditional love and concern for every Jew, regardless of background and affiliation.
Chabad of Tiburon 1640 Tiburon Blvd. Suite 11
Tiburon, CA 94920 (415) 378-9364
jewishtiburon.com
rabbi@jewishtiburon.com
Rabbi Levi Mintz
Rebbetzin Mirel Mintz
Provides people with a warm and personalized Jewish experience. Serves Tiburon and Belvedere residents with anything they might need, be it physical or spiritual.
Chabad of West Marin
283 Butterfield Road
San Anselmo, CA 954547 (415) 910-8186
jewishwestmarin.org
moshe@jewishwestmarin.org
Co-directors: Hadassa Berkowitz Moshe Berkowitz
A warm space for Jewish community, connection and celebration, where participants create a vibrant, local community and discover Jewish life that is authentic, relevant, and exciting.
Conservative
Congregation Beth Ami*
4676 Mayette Ave.
Santa Rosa, CA 95405 (707) 360-3000
Fax: (707) 360-3003
bethamisr.org
office@bethamisr.org
Rabbi Mordecai Miller
Office Manager: Elizabeth Jarlsberg
Monthly Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations, fostering a strong sense of community. Toddler through teen programming, adult education, library and gift shop. Conservative/egalitarian. Welcomes interfaith, singles and LGBTQ.
Congregation Kol Shofar
215 Blackfield Drive
Tiburon, CA 94920 (415) 388-1818
kolshofar.org info@kolshofar.org
Senior Rabbi Paul Steinberg Cantor Naomi Weiss
Authentic Judaism in Marin. A dynamic congregation in Tiburon creating meaningful and transformative experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Independent
Congregation B’nai Israel
1256 Nebraska St. P.O. Box 3066 Vallejo, CA 94590 (707) 642-6526 bnaisrael.com
cbi.amarkal@gmail.com
Rabbi David White
Synagogue Administrator: Sue Barush Shabbat services every Friday evening and Saturday morning, youth religious and Hebrew education, adult education courses. Many services and events are virtual, as well as in-person on Shabbat or as noted.
B’nai Israel Jewish Center*
740 Western Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 762-0340 bnaiisrael.net office@bnaiisrael.net
Rabbi Shalom Bochner
Office Administrator: Erica Stuart Petaluma’s vibrant and inclusive Center for Jewish Life: Gan Israel Preschool, youth and adult education, social and cultural activities, dinners, concerts and comedy nights, Shabbat and holiday services, gift shop.
B’nai Israel Jewish Center A vibrant, inclusive Center for Jewish Life
Hybrid services, join us on Zoom or in person.
4676 Mayette Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95405 707-360-3000 · BethAmiSR.org TRADITIONAL, EGALITARIAN, INCLUSIVE
Rabbi Shalom Bochner
704 Western Ave., Petaluma 707-762-0340 • www.bnaiisrael.net
Gan HaLev Jewish Congregation of the San Geronimo Valley Mail to: P.O. Box 280 Woodacre, CA 94973 (415) 488-4524 ganhalev.org shalom@ganhalev.org
Administrator and Board Member: Suzanne Sadowsky
Independent, participatory and multigenerational congregation. Adult education and gatherings, Shabbat programs and holiday celebrations, welcoming those who seek an inspiring and welcoming Jewish community.
Kol HaEmek/MCJC-Inland (707) 468-4536 kolhaemek.org kolhaemekrv@gmail.com
Secretary: Janae Stephens
President: Sherrie Ebyam
Creates an environment in which Jewish culture, religion and spiritual life can flourish.
Mendocino Coast Jewish Community P.O. Box 291 Little River, CA 95456 (707) 964-6146 mcjc.org susan.tubbesing@gmail.com
Rabbi Margaret Holub Board Member: Susan Tubbesing
Serves the Northern California coast. Hybrid Shabbat morning services, holiday celebrations, weekly Zoom candle lighting, cultural and lifecycle events, adult/family education, annual women’s retreat, Younger adults, justice and elders groups.
Russian River Jewish Community P.O. Box 2274 Guerneville, CA 95446 (707) 632-5545 rrjc.org
Celebrating almost 30 years as the center for Jewish life in Sonoma Valley
A warm, friendly and spiritually innovative congregation welcoming Jews and family members of all faiths worship • study • fellowship
For information regarding Shabbat Services, Education and Community Programs: 707-935-3636 • info.shirshalom@gmail.com www.shir-shalom.org
Rabbi Steve Finley
252 W. Spain Street, Sonoma
russianriverjc@gmail.com
Contact: Natasha Pehrson
Western Sonoma County-based community organization for celebrating Jewish holidays and culture.
Reconstructionist
Congregation Ner Shalom 85 La Plaza Cotati, CA 94931 (707) 664-8622 nershalom.org info@nershalom.org
Rabbi Irwin Keller
Drawing from Reconstructionist roots and Jewish Renewal soulfulness, embraces Judaism through ritual, social justice, music, learning. Serves families with school-aged children through our Nitzanim Program, and families with children with disabilities through our Celebrations Program.
Dorot P.O. Box 5278
Novato, CA 94948 (415) 948-6659 shreib222@gmail.com
Rabbi Henry M. Shreibman, Ph.D.
Welcomes unaffiliated individuals and families. Workshops and services support Jewish life-learning through a Reconstructionist lens. High Holy Day services, children’s education, interfaith programs, b’nai mitzvah training for all ages and lifecycle events.
Reform
Congregation Beth Shalom of Napa Valley 1455 Elm St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 253-7305
Napa Valley’s only synagogue, founded in 1953. Full schedule of religious, educational and cultural programs. Weekly Shabbat services and religious school.
Congregation Rodef Sholom
170 N. San Pedro Road
San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 479-3441
rodefsholom.org
office@rodefsholom.org
Senior Rabbi Stacy Friedman
Executive Director: Tracey Klapow
Igniting the passion to connect — with Jewish values, with each other and with our world.
Congregation Shir Shalom*
252 W. Spain St. Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 935-3636 shir-shalom.org info.shirshalom@gmail.com
Rabbi Steve Finley
Membership Chair: Sharon Malakoff Friday night Shabbat services are usually held the fourth Friday of each month at 7 p.m. Shabbat morning services are monthly, on the second Saturday at 10 a.m. Check website for current schedule.
Congregation Shomrei Torah
2600 Bennett Valley Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 578-5519 cstsr.org cst@cstsr.org
Rabbi George Gittleman
Weekly Shabbat and holiday services, lifelong learning, b’nai mitzvah and a rich program of community events. Socially progressive synagogue.
PENINSULA/S0UTH BAY
Chabad
Chabad Jewish Center of Mountain View 933 Barbara Ave. Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 332-9062 mvchabad.com ber@mvchabad.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Ber Rosenblat Esti Rosenblat
A place to learn, live and experience Jewish heritage. Offers Torah classes, Shabbat and holiday celebrations, youth programming and a preschool.
Chabad of Almaden 5580 Almaden Expressway San Jose, CA 95118 (408) 910-2034 chabadalmaden.com info@chabadalmaden.com
Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld
Offers a wide variety of educational and spiritual opportunities for Jews of all backgrounds. Features holiday celebrations, adult education classes, camp, after-school program, Hebrew school and more.
Chabad of Burlingame P.O. Box 673 San Mateo, CA 94401 (650) 667-9556 chabadburlingame.com yspalter@gmail.com
Provides Jewish education on all levels in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment through creative and innovative programs and activities. Doors open to all, regardless of affiliation, background or level of Jewish practice and knowledge.
Chabad of Cupertino 10201 Imperial Ave. Cupertino, CA 95014 (408) 207-3648 ruvgold@comcast.net
Promotes and strengthens Jewish awareness, pride and observance by providing educational, cultural and social activities to all Jewish individuals and families, regardless of background or affiliation.
Chabad of Daly City 1177 Mission Road, Suite A South San Francisco, CA 94080 (650) 273-6273 jewishdalycity.com info@jewishdalycity.com
Rabbi Shaul Goldman
Stimulating programs for Jews of all backgrounds: Jewish kids clubs, b’nai mitzvah preparation, Jewish Women’s Circle, men’s club, Shabbat and holiday services and events, adult education, Hebrew learning program and more.
Chabad of Mid Peninsula 523 Topaz St. Redwood City, CA 94062 (650) 232-0995 chabadmidpen.com info@chabadmidpen.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Levi Potash Mrs. Ella Potash
Offers Jews of all backgrounds and ages innovative and exciting programs: Adult education, Shabbat minyan, holiday programming, bar/bat mitzvah preparation, community dinners, youth programs and more.
Chabad of North Peninsula P.O. Box 673 San Mateo, CA 94401 (650) 453-8136
chabadnp.com
info@chabadnp.com
Director: Rabbi Yossi Marcus
Co-director: Mrs. Esty Marcus
No membership required to participate. Sunday school, bar and bat mitzvah, preschool, adult education, High Holy Day services and holiday events, adult education. Hebrew tutoring for all ages. Summer camp for ages 5-12.
Chabad of San Jose 15405 Los Gatos Blvd., Suite 204 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-5530
chabadsj.com info@chabadsj.com
Rabbi Aaron Cunin
Shabbat services, adult education classes, holiday awareness programs, Hebrew school, bar/bat mitzvah lessons, drug prevention. All welcome regardless of religious background, knowledge or level of observance.
Chabad of Sunnyvale (408) 720-0553
chabadsunnyvale.com
rabbi@chabadsunnyvale.com
Director: Rabbi Yisroel Hecht
Program Director: Miriam Hecht
Open door to the entire Jewish community. Children’s programs, bar/bat mitzvah preparation, teen club, Chabad Hebrew school. Adult education. Beginner and children-friendly services on Shabbat and holidays and summer camp. Call for location.
Chabad Palo Alto 3070 Louis Road Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 424-9800
chabadpaloalto.com zalman@chabadpaloalto.com
Rabbi Yosef Levin
Rabbi Zalman Levin
Provides Jewish programs and resources in Palo Alto area including Hebrew school, bar/bat mitzvah, and programs and events for teens, young adults and families.
Chabad of Santa Clara 2043 Pruneridge Ave. Santa Clara, CA 95050 (408) 982-7419
jewishclara.com
rabbi@jewishclara.com
Rabbi Yigal Rosenberg
Rebbetzin Elana Rosenberg
Home for everything Jewish: young adult
social programming, children’s educational events, Shabbat meals and services, weekly classes and Hebrew after-school.
Chabad South County Jewish Center 16430 Monterey Hwy. Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (408) 766-2343 jewishmh.com
info@jewishsouthcounty.com
Director: Rabbi Mendel Liberow
Explore Jewish heritage and tradition in a friendly, nonjudgmental atmosphere, regardless of affiliation or observance. Offerss include adult education, children and teen programs, Hebrew school, bar/bat mitzvah preparation and more.
Los Altos Chabad (650) 241-8770 jewishlosaltos.com info@jewishlosaltos.com
Rabbi Ezzy Schusterman Nechama Schusterman
Offers Jews of all backgrounds and ages innovative and exciting programs: Men’s and women’s classes and groups, monthly Shabbat service, holiday programming, bar/bat mitzvah preparation, children’s programs and more.
The Village Chabad 200 S. Balsamina Way Portola Valley, CA 94028 (650) 304-2098
info@thevillagechabad.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Mayer Brook Dassi Brook
Serves Woodside and Portola Valley, providing individualized Jewish experiences for families, adults and seniors. Rabbi Mayer and Dassi Brook specialize in personal connections, complementing your Jewish experience with friendship, caring and connection.
Conservative
Congregation Beth David 19700 Prospect Road Saratoga, CA 95070 (408) 257-3333
beth-david.org
info@beth-david.org
Senior Rabbi David Kunin
Director Operations and Ritual: Barbara Biran
Committed to providing avenues toward Jewish connection. All are welcome to come celebrate and discover what the synagogue has to offer.
Congregation Beth Jacob*
1550 Alameda de las Pulgas Redwood City, CA 94061 (650) 366-8481
Fax: (650) 366-4629
bethjacobrwc.org
cbj@bethjacobrwc.org
Rabbi Nathaniel Ezray
Executive Director: Keren Smith
Vibrant community grounded in Jewish values, practice and learning. Striving to honor the diversity and individuality of all members.
Engaging programs for all ages. Forge lasting relationships in our supportive community. Traditional egalitarian services, inclusive atmosphere.
499 Boothbay Avenue, Foster City, CA 94404 650.349.2816 • www.peninsulasinai.org • info@peninsulasinai.org
1550 Alameda de las Pulgas Redwood City, CA 94061
650-366-8481
cbj@bethjacobrwc.org www.bethjacobrwc.org
Congregation Kol Emeth 4175 Manuela Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 948-7498
Fax: (650) 618-6809
kolemeth.org office@kolemeth.org
Rabbi David Booth
Rabbi Sarah Graff
Conservative, participatory, egalitarian, traditional services, daily minyanim, Friday night Shabbat programs; religious school, social action programs, adult and family education and programs for young professionals.
Congregation Sinai 1532 Willowbrae Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 264-8542 sinai-sj.org office@sinai-sj.org
Conservative synagogue in San Jose connecting people to each other, Judaism, Israel and the world. Shabbat and Sunday services and holiday celebrations. Religious school and nursery school onsite.
Peninsula Sinai Congregation* 499 Boothbay Ave. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 349-2816 peninsulasinai.org info@peninsulasinai.org
Rabbi Elana Zelony Cantor Doron Shapira
Participatory, diverse, Jewishly committed community. Services are a blend of traditional and spiritual, relevant and accessible. Revolutionizing the synagogue model from the inside out.
Be a part of a community that welcomes you and lifts up your stories.
Experience a place of joy and innovation. Participate in a holy community through activism, prayer, and connection
Musical, spiritual, culturally diverse, innovative, yet also tradition-based. Welcomes straight or LGBTQQIN, multifaith, all ages. Draws primarily from the San Mateo Coast.
Congregation Etz Chayim
4161 Alma St. Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 813-9094 etzchayim.org execdirector@etzchayim.org
Rabbi Chaim Koritzinsky
Executive Director: Ellen Bob
Creating community: sing, learn, pray and celebrate. Around 300 Jewishly diverse households. Using a community-created prayerbook for egalitarian, participatory services. Programs for adults, kids and families.
The Karaite Jews of America
Congregation B’nai Israel 1575 Annie St. Daly City, CA 94915 (650) 994-9757 karaites.org karaitejewsofamerica@karaites.org
Acting Rav: Joseph Massuda
President: David Ovadia
The only Karaite Jewish synagogue in the country, representing Bay Area families with roots in Cairo, Egypt. With its new Karaite Jewish Cultural Center, the synagogue provides advocacy and learning resources throughout the U.S.
Orthodox Am Echad 1504 Meridian Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 amechad.org info@amechad.org
Rabbi Avi Lebowitz
Rabbi Reuven Goldstein
Shabbat hospitality, daily minyanim and shiurim (classes). Jewish men and women at any level of observance are welcome.
Congregation Emek Beracha 4102 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94306
Distinguished by warmth, tolerance and understanding. Offers daily and Shabbat services, and a diverse range of classes for those of varied backgrounds.
Community-led Reconstructionist congregation that is inclusive, egalitarian, participatory, inquiring, innovative and compassionate.
Reform
Congregation Beth Am
26790 Arastradero Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 (650) 493-4661/ Fax: (650) 494-8248 betham.org info@betham.org
Rabbi Arthur P. Nemitoff
Rabbi Shoshana Nambi
Executive Director: Jeremy Ragent
Inclusive Reform congregation. Come worship, study, learn and schmooze. Family, youth and adult education resources. Participatory worship. Interfaith families and people of color welcome.
Congregation Emeth
17835 Monterey St. Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (408) 778-8200
emeth.net
admin@emeth.net
Rabbi Faith Joy Dantowitz
Rabbi Emerita Debbie Israel
South Santa Clara Valley’s only Reform synagogue. Full religious school, Hebrew school and adult programming. Interfaith families welcome. Oversees Jewish section of Gan Emet/Emeth Gardens Cemetery in Gilroy.
Congregation Shir Hadash
20 Cherry Blossom Lane Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-1751 shirhadash.org office@shirhadash.org
Senior Rabbi Nico Socolovsky
Executive Director: Shanda Witkin
Intellectually and psychologically sophisticated, joyous, welcoming and compassionate. Participants find their spiritual path in a community at once religiously traditional and innovative and politically progressive.
Peninsula Temple Beth El 1700 Alameda de las Pulgas San Mateo, CA 94403 (650) 341-7701 ptbe.org mail@ptbe.org
Senior Rabbi Lisa Kingston
Executive Director: Kate Lauzar
Energetic and engaged Reform congregation defined by a culture of belonging. Musical worship on Shabbat and holidays, inspiring educational programs for youth and adults and strong emphasis on pursuing justice and love of Israel.
Peninsula Temple Sholom 1655 Sebastian Drive Burlingame, CA 94010 (650) 697-2266 sholom.org
cco@sholom.org
Rabbi Daniel Feder
Chief Community Officer: Karen Wisialowski
Inclusive Jewish community where everyone can find peace, inspiration and their own connection to Judaism.
Temple Emanu-El 1010 University Ave. San Jose, CA 95126 (408) 292-0939
San Jose’s oldest Reform congregation; inclusive in all areas of synagogue life. Rooted in tradition, growing toward the future.
SAN FRANCISCO
Chabad
Chabad of Cole Valley 1300 Shrader St. San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 786-5642 chabadcv.org info@chabadcv.org
Rabbi Nosson Potash
Rebbetzin Chaya Potash
Community-based organization with mission to make Judaism’s rich heritage and values available to all. Offers community holiday celebrations, Shabbat services, after-school program and other opportunities to connect.
Chabad of Noe Valley 3781 Cesar Chavez St. San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 648-8000 chabadnoevalley.org chabadnoe@gmail.com
Rabbi Gedalia Potash
Welcoming, friendly community, inspiring and insightful services, educational opportunities and holiday celebration for adults and children. Torah classes, Hebrew
Where we feed the body, challenge the mind and nourish the soul
Traditional & Egalitarian Services –and the Best Kiddush Luncheons in Town Life-Long Learning Bar/Bat Mitzvah Preparation
Conversion Class
Spiritual Development/Mussar Weekly Torah Study
Weekly Musical Shabbat Services Community & Culture Club (C3)
Congregation Ner Tamid is affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 1250 Quintara Street, SF 415.661.3383 • NerTamidSF.org
San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 668-6178 chabadsf.org info@chabadsf.org
Executive Director: Rabbi Yosef Langer
Operations Director: Rabbi Moshe Langer
Open-house Shabbat dinner and special holiday events. Call or email for service schedule and event information.
Chabad of the Neighborhood 333 West Portal Ave. San Francisco, CA 94127 (508) 873-1250
chabadneighborhood.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Mendel Levin Devorie Levin
The co-directors see this neighborhood outpost as a platform to foster new relationships, nurturing curious minds. Chabad welcomes all Jews, regardless of level of observance or Jewish knowledge.
Richmond Torah Center of Chabad 423 10th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 386-8123
Fax: (415) 668-7015 rtchabad.org
richmondtorahcenter@gmail.com
Rabbi Ahron Hecht
Celebrate Judaism with a warm, friendly community. All levels of observance welcome. Shabbat/holiday hospitality, adult education/programs. Children’s programs. Daily/Shabbat services.
United Schneerson Synagogue 2655 Balboa St. San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 724-8652
scofsf.com
rabbipil770@gmail.com
Rabbi Bentzion Pil Rebbetzin Mattie Pil
Traditional synagogue located in the heart of the Richmond District. Geared for Russian-speaking Jews primarily but caters to Jews of all backgrounds and levels, including nonbelievers and atheists.
Conservative
Congregation Beth Sholom
301 14th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 221-8736
bethsholomsf.org info@bethsholomsf.org
Rabbi Amanda Russell
Acting Executive Director: Alan Schnur
Committed to traditional and egalitarian Jewish practice encouraging a unique path. With Shabbat at our core, our congregation is a lifelong home for individuals and families to discover, deepen and express their Jewish identity.
Judaism with a big heart from the heart of the Sunset District. Hybrid services, holiday celebrations, cultural events, Torah study and lifelong learning. The doors, in-person and virtual, are open to everyone.
Conservative-Reform Am Tikvah
625 Brotherhood Way San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 586-8833 amtikvah.org office@amtikvah.org
Rabbi Chayva Lehrman
Executive Director: Talya K. Brass
With a name that means “people of hope,” this congregation grew out of the 2021 merger of two synagogues: B’nai Emunah and Beth Israel Judea. Embracing myriad Jewish rituals, values, social justice and continued learning.
Independent
Congregation L’Dor VaDor
San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living 302 Silver Ave. San Francisco, CA 94112 (415) 469-2254 sfcjl.org rabbi@sfcjl.org
Rabbi Debora Kohn
Musical, participatory worship and Torah study. Kabbalat Shabbat at 1:30 p.m. Fridays. Saturday morning service at 9:15 a.m. Oneg Shabbat 2 p.m. Friends, family and community are welcome.
Keneset HaLev–Community of the Heart
c/o 2695 44th Ave. San Francisco, CA 94116 facebook.com/kenesethalev
info@kenesethalev.org
Maggid: Jonathan Furst Va’ad President: Shari Samuel
Post-denominational, heart-centered community based in San Francisco and the East Bay. Gathering online and in-person for monthly Shabbats plus special events, including outdoor High Holy Days.
The Kitchen
Mailing to: 2443 Fillmore St. Suite 310 San Francisco, CA 94115
thekitchensf.org hello@thekitchensf.org
Director of Communications & Marketing: Sophie Stimola
Executive Director: Spencer Weiss
Innovative religious community, grounded in serious exploration of Jewish tradition, text and ritual for people with all levels of Jewish knowledge and experience.
Mission Minyan
Mail to: 2261 Market St., Suite 447A San Francisco, CA 94114 missionminyan.org info@missionminyan.org
Community of Jews who get together for spirited traditional davening (and related festivities) in San Francisco’s Mission district. Meets Friday nights for Kabbalat Shabbat and twice monthly on Shabbat mornings.
Russian Speaking Jewish Community
Congregation of Russian Jews 3739 Balboa St., Suite 140 San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 221-5280
Traditional congregation serving the needs of Russian-speaking Jews in San Francisco Bay Area. No-membership High Holy Day program. Youth/teen programs. Bar/bat mitzvah classes.
Orthodox
Adath Israel Congregation 1851 Noriega St. San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 564-5665 adathisraelsf.org office@adathIsraelsf.org
Rabbi Joel Landau Warm, diverse and creative Orthodox
community welcomes to all ages and backgrounds. Classes and activities include youth and preschool programming. Daily services twice a day, morning and evening.
Congregation Chevra Thilim 751 25th Ave. San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 752-2866
sfshul.org
info@sfshul.org
Rabbi Shlomo Zarchi
Contemporary Orthodox synagogue dedicated to promoting a nurturing environment for spiritual, social and intellectual growth; facilitates developing connections to Torah in the modern world.
Orthodox-Sephardi
Congregation Anshey Sfard
1500 Clement St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 676-8900 ansheysfard.com office@ansheysfard.com
Rabbi Avigdor Ashtar
President: Isaac Shabtai
Community Coordinator: Leya Aronoff
Services: Morning minyan Mondays and Thursdays 7:30 a.m., Shabbat 9 a.m., monthly big Sephardi Shabbat for young professionals.
Magain David Sephardim Congregation 351 Fourth Ave. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 752-9095 magaindavid.com info@magaindavid.com
Rabbi Simon Benzaquen Board Member: Angela Beniflah
Active Sephardic congregation featuring services every morning and on Friday nights, Saturdays and holidays.
Reconstructionist
Or Shalom Jewish Community 333 Cortland Ave. San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 469-5542 orshalomsf.org admin@orshalom.org
San Francisco’s only Reconstructionist congregation, Offers down-to-earth Jewish practices, educational classes for adults and children and volunteer opportunities. A modern, dynamic and musical community of Jews and non-Jews.
Reform
Congregation Emanu-El 2 Lake St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 751-2535
Senior Rabbis Beth and Jonathan Singer Director of Member Experience: Ariana Estoque
Inclusive community for all, committed to study (Torah), worship (avodah) and working to repair the world (tikkun olam).
Congregation Sha’ar Zahav
290 Dolores St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 861-6932
shaarzahav.org office@shaarzahav.org
Rabbi Mychal Copeland Executive Director: Danny Shapiro
Jewish community that affirms the sacred in each one. Rooted in history as San Francisco’s gay and lesbian synagogue, Offers the warmth and comfort of chosen family.
Congregation Sherith Israel
2266 California St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 346-1720 sherithisrael.org programs@sherithisrael.org
Rabbi Jessica Zimmerman Graf Rabbi George Altshuler
Awe-inspiring sanctuary is an historic landmark synagogue with leadership who innovate and inspire generations of congregants, guests and the greater Jewish community with a variety of services and programs.
Serves the Santa Cruz Jewish community with educational, social and humanitarian programs.
Chabad of Monterey 620 Lighthouse Ave. Suite 100
Pacific Grove, CA 93950 (831) 643-2770
chabadofmonterey.com chabadmonterey@gmail.com
Rabbi Dovid Holtzberg
Popular center for Jews of all backgrounds who want to learn more about their Jewish roots. Offers educational and spiritual opportunities, including Torah classes and lectures, Shabbaton dinners, Jewish Renewal
Chadeish Yameinu Jewish Renewal
Mail to: P.O. Box 3578 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 (831) 295-8467 cysantacruz.com
rabbi@cysantacruz.com
Rabbi Eli Cohen
Supports ongoing renewal of Judaism — bringing spiritual vitality into our lives, drawing on kabbalistic/Hasidic sources, and embracing a vision that all paths have a role.
Reform
Congregation Beth Israel
5716 Carmel Valley Road
Carmel, CA 93923 (831) 624-2015 carmelbethisrael.org shalomcbi@carmelbethisrael.org
Rabbi Bruce Greenbaum Cantor Alisa Fineman
Largest and oldest Reform synagogue and Jewish cultural center for the Monterey Peninsula. Looking to our heritage as a repository of wisdom.
Senior Rabbi Paula Marcus Membership Experience and Program Manager: Melissa Sunberg
Passionate about peace and justice, creative about prayer, joyful about tradition. Focused on learning, community, worship and the pursuit of tikkun olam (repairing the world).
Conversions
Most congregational rabbis are available for lifecycle events and to teach Jews-bychoice. Many synagogues have conversion programs. Contact the Board of Rabbis of Northern California at (415) 369-2860, the East Bay Council of Rabbis at (510) 522-9355 or the Cantorial and Rabbinic Association of Greater San Jose at (408) 358-3033. Also see Chapter 3, Lifecycles.
Interfaith Programs
Interfaith programming is provided by most JCCs, JFCS and synagogues, as well as the organizations listed below. Activities include holiday workshops and celebrations, support groups and social occasions. Several local rabbis perform interfaith marriages.
Contact individual rabbis or the organizations listed below for further assistance.
18 Doors 18doors.org
Resource for interfaith couples exploring Jewish life, providing in-depth, easy-toaccess resources that empower couples to make Jewish choices and help their families embrace the choices they make.
Building Bridges Together
405 El Camino Real, Suite 433 Menlo Park, CA 94025 (650) 580-8273
Nonprofit organization Offers easily implementable interfaith dialogue programming for Jewish, Christian and Muslim faith communities. The five-session Interfaith Bridges™ program includes dinner and facilitated discussions. Lay-led programs create meaningful relationships among participants.
Building Jewish Bridges: Embracing Interfaith Families
2808 Summit St. Oakland, CA 94609 (510 ) 679-0209 buildingjewishbridges.org dawn@buildingjewishbridges.org
Director: Dawn Kepler
Workshops and panel discussions on interfaith/intercultural issues. Couples meetings and individualized assistance. Negotiating differences, raising children, finding community. Secular and agnostic welcome. Biweekly email with events and advice for interfaith families.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMUNITY SERVICE
ENVIRONMENTAL/NATURE FEDERATIONS CAMPUSES PUBLIC AFFAIRS TOLERANCE 5 |
Agencies & Organizations
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Community Service
By providing service locally, in Israel and throughout the world, Jews can put their energy and skills to work, making a difference in the lives of others.
American Jewish World Service
San Francisco Bay Area
131 Steuart St., Suite 200 San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 593-3296 ajws.org
Inspired by Judaism’s commitment to justice, works to realize human rights and end poverty in the developing world.
Be’chol Lashon
3245 Geary Blvd., Suite 591478
San Francisco, CA 94159 (415) 386-2604 globaljews.org info@globaljews.org
Executive Director: Julian Voloj
Celebrates and prioritizes diversity as a Jewish value — uplifting the historic and contemporary racial, ethnic and cultural diversity of the Jewish people, strengthening the entire Jewish community.
B’nai B’rith International Golden Pacific Region (925) 935-7111 bnaibrith.org goldmancpa@aol.com
Regional President: Stan Goldman
Advocates for the Jewish people and Israel. Promotes Jewish unity, security and continuity, fighting antisemitism and intolerance worldwide.
Business Referral Community Groups
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 512-6423 jewishfed.org/businessreferralcommunity
jeannem@sfjcf.org
Director, Advancement Programs: Jeanne Miller
Leverages Jewish business professionals’ interests in networking in combination with shared Jewish values in advancing the Jewish Community Federation’s mission.
Community Security Program
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 369-2893
jewishfed.org security@sfjcf.org
Senior Director, Community Security: Rafael Brinner
Provides security consultation, training, and customized support to Jewish organizations in San Francisco, the Peninsula, the North Bay and the East Bay.
Estate and Gift Planning
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105
jewishfed.org/giftplanning steveb@sfjcf.org
Senior Director, Gift Planning and Endowments: Steve Brown
Estate and gift planning require more preparation, negotiation and counsel than many other donation options. Organization’s approach focuses on the connection between estate planning, philanthropic giving and Jewish values.
Federation Philanthropy Partners
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 512-6225
jewishfed.org/fpp philanthropy@sfjcf.org
Connects impact and meaning through Jewish values. Helps create donor’s mission, connect with research organizations and involve donor’s family. Collaborates to align donor’s giving with their vision for a better world.
Volunteer-driven Zionist organization promotes partnership, commitment and passion for Israel by enhancing pace-setting health care for all, education for youth in Israel, advocacy, personal growth and leadership opportunities for women members and associates.
JWI Young Women’s Impact Movement: San Francisco
jwi.org/ywin-sanfrancisco jwiywin@jwi.org
Board Member: Talia Azour
Board Member: Jennifer Hazan
Branch of Jewish Women International connects and supports local Jewish women in their 20s and 30s with empowering programs, leadership experiences and meaningful opportunities to create a lasting impact on the world around them.
National Council of Jewish Women
San Francisco Section 2000 Van Ness Ave. Suite 411 San Francisco, CA 94109 (415) 346-4600 ncjwsf.org info@ncjwsf.org
Nonprofit social justice group helps turn progressive ideas into action. Inspired by Jewish values, members work to improve quality of life and safeguard rights and freedoms for all.
Committed to strengthening communities throughout the world by educating people against all odds and obstacles, changing lives through education.
Philanthropy and Development
Jewish Silicon Valley 14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7503
jvalley.org
philanthropy@jvalley.org
Philanthropy Manager: Catey Cramer
Ensures a vibrant Jewish community in Silicon Valley while promoting the well-being of all people by providing visionary leadership, philanthropic support and meaningful programs and experiences that are rooted in Jewish values and traditions.
Repair The World werepair.org/communities/bay-area lauren.halperin@werepair.org
Bay Area Senior Program Manager: Lauren Halperin
Offers Jewish young adults opportunities to volunteer, addressing pressing needs in our city through service and Jewish learning, primarily focusing on food justice and housing justice.
Focused on uplifting innovation, upholding Jewish values and helping the entrepreneurs we serve reach upward.
Workers Circle/Arbeter Ring
Northern California circle.org/northern-california dmscott01@yahoo.com
Branch Chair: Diana Scott
Fosters Jewish (especially Yiddish) and secular culture, education and the pursuit of social, economic and environmental justice.
Environmental/Nature
EcoJews of the Bay (415) 596-9913 aytzim.org ilana@aytzim.org
Director: Ilana Tova Gauss
Aims to inspire environmental action through Jewish values. Events and resources focus on living Jewish environmental ethics. A project of the national nonprofit organization Aytzim.
Urban Adamah 1151 Sixth St. Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 649-1595
urbanadamah.org
info@urbanadamah.org
Executive Director: Adam Weisberg
Senior Director of People and Operations: Kat Morgan
Organic farm and education center offers a three-month residential fellowship for young adults; summer camp; hands-on programs for youth, families and adults; Jewish festival celebrations.
Wilderness Torah
2222 Harold Way Suite CW508 Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 926-4648
wildernesstorah.org
info@wildernesstorah.org
Senior Director of Marketing and Operations: Robbie Friedman
Administrator: Rick Kelley
Reconnects Jewish life to nature, revitalizing Jewish education and community for thousands of participants through holiday retreats, nature-based youth education and leadership training.
Federations
Based on the traditions of tzedakah (righteous behavior) and communal responsibility, the Jewish Federations are volunteer-based, nonprofit organizations that raise funds to support social services, culture and education. As umbrella agencies, they allocate dollars in their geographic areas, Israel and elsewhere around the world. Federations play an important role in community planning and leadership development. In addition, Federation endowment funds help to ensure the financial security of the Jewish community.
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund* 121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 777-0411
jewishfed.org info@sfjcf.org
CEO: Joy Sisisky
Peninsula Office
3921 Fabian Way Suite E-103 Palo Alto, CA 94303
jewishfed.org info@sfjcf.org
Mobilizes innovation, collaboration and investment to shape diverse and dynamic Bay Area Jewish communities, which work together to better lives and communities locally, in Israel and around the world.
Israel Office
34 Geula St. (Steinberg Youth Village) Kfar Saba, Israel 44257 jewishfed.org/workInisrael info@sfjcf.org
Director, Israel Office: Barak Loozon
The Federation’s Israel office supports innovative programs working to build and sustain a pluralistic, democratic and shared society with equal opportunity for all.
Jewish Silicon Valley* 14855 Oka Road Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-3636
Fax: (408) 358-7311 jvalley.org info@jvalley.org
Harnesses the power of community to improve lives, build bridges of understanding and strengthen the Jewish people.
Holocaust & Tolerance
Taking an active role in keeping the memory and the lessons of the Holocaust alive, a number of Northern California organizations provide educational programs and offer support to survivors and their families.
Alliance for the Study of the Holocaust and Genocide at Sonoma State University c/o University Advancement 1801 E. Cotati Ave. Rohnert Park, CA 94928 holocaust.sonoma.edualliance alliance@sonoma.edu
Supporting the Jewish community for over 100 years, the Federation partners with donors, organizations and foundations to address the pressing issues facing the community.
Co-presidents: Yehoyada Mbankugira Christyne Davidian Supports SSU’s Center for the Study of the Holocaust and Genocide and the annual Holocaust and Genocide Lecture Series; coordinates presentations for local schools by survivors and descendants of the Holocaust and other genocides.
CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY
In exchange for a gift to the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund, you and up to one additional beneficiary can receive fixed income for life.
Other benefits to you may include:
An income tax deduction at the time the gift is made
Partially tax-free payments
Favorable treatment of capital gains for gifts of appreciated stock
Please contact the Federation’s Department of Gift Planning at 415.512.6250 or gpe@sfjcf.org for more information. Sample Charitable Gift Annuity Rates for a
Group for those who were hidden children during the Holocaust and their descendants. Meets regularly at members’ homes and on Zoom.
Bay Area Holocaust Oral History Project
San Mateo County History Museum 2200 Broadway Redwood City, CA 94063 (650) 299-0104 historysmc.org archives@historysmc.org
Archival Collections Specialist: Debra Peterson
Taped testimonies and transcripts of concentration camp survivors, ghetto survivors, liberators, Shanghai survivors and people surviving in hiding and now living in San Mateo County. By appointment only.
California Holocaust Awareness and Action Interactive Museum (CHAIM) (408) 892-5654 thechaim.org info@thechaim.org
Mobile museum dedicated to providing an experiential teaching center for the Bay Area, to help increase awareness of the hate that led to the Holocaust and learn to fight hate and promote tolerance.
Center for the Study of the Holocaust and Genocide 1801 E. Cotati Ave. Schulz Information Center, 2nd Floor Rohnert Park, CA 94928 (707) 664-4076 sonoma.edu/holocaust centerh@sonoma.edu
Director: Myrna Goodman
Sponsors public Holocaust lectures each spring, develops Holocaust resource materials, provides Holocaust education in collaboration with the Alliance for the Study of the Holocaust and Genocide.
JFCS Holocaust Center
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2245 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-3717 jfcsholocaustcenter.org holocaustcenter@jfcs.org
Director: Morgan Blum Schneider
Director of Programming: Yedida Kanfer
Northern California’s primary resource for Holocaust education. Tauber Library, archives, oral history collection and artifacts, survivor speakers bureau, teacher training, student programs, Holocaust remembrance.
Holocaust Memorial
Lincoln Park, Legion of Honor Drive
San Francisco, CA 94121
Mail to: 121 Steuart St., Suite 301 San Francisco, CA 94105
Created by sculptor George Segal to memorialize the Holocaust. Represents a survivor standing in front of a tragic scene in a concentration camp. Open daily. Entrance at Clement and 34th Avenue.
Holocaust Survivor Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
Assistance with reparations, care management, social activities, including the weekly Café by the Bay, now online. Transportation, comprehensive senior services and financial and practical assistance for survivors and their families.
Holocaust Survivor Services – East Bay
Jewish Family & Community Serices East Bay 2151 Salvio St., Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520 2484 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 210 Berkeley, CA 94704 (925) 927-2000
Provides services and assistance for 250+ Holocaust survivors in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, including home care, care management, volunteers, counseling, social groups and restitution assistance.
Holocaust Survivor Services – Silicon Valley
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley P.O. Box 320490
Reparations claims assistance, emergency services and financial assistance through Kavod SHEF, food assistance, case management, homecare services, home visits and support groups. Services available in English, Russian, Ukrainian and Hebrew.
Jewish Partisan Educational Foundation
2266 California St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 563-2244 jewishpartisans.org sheri@jewishpartisans.org
Director of Development and Outreach: Sheri Rosenblum
Founder and Board Secretary: Mitch Braff
Distributes innovative curricula about the heroic resistance of the 30,000 Jewish partisans who fought back against tyranny. Provides information to educational and cultural organizations, reaching millions of young people and students annually.
Kindertransport Association
Northern California Chapter kindertransport.org info@kindertransport.org
Contacts: Robin Smallberg, Linda Waldroup
Organizes reunions and events for Kindertransport survivors and the next generations. It is also involved in Holocaust education through a speakers’ bureau and traveling exhibits.
JCCs & Campuses
Local Jewish community centers play an important role in building and sustaining Jewish life in the Bay Area. They are places to play and socialize, to find friends and even romance, and to learn. Northern California JCCs offer an extensive range of services and programming, from lectures on Israel to ballroom dancing, from women’s support groups to writing workshops. Many JCCs also offer the latest in fitness and recreational facilities. They provide camps and afterschool care for kids of all ages, special events and services for seniors, and numerous other programs and services. Contact the JCC in your area.
CAMPUSES
Levy Family Campus
14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-3636/ Fax: (408) 358-7311 jvalley.org info@jvalley.org
Home of Jewish Silicon Valley, which pro-
vides programs through Addison-Penzak JCC as well as Yavneh Day School, Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley and the Community Mikvah.
Lonee C. Hoytt Jewish Campus
200 N. San Pedro Road San Rafael, CA 94903 marinjcc.org/about-us
Home to Osher Marin JCC, Brandeis Marin Day School, Congregation Rodef Sholom.
North Peninsula Jewish Campus 800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 npjc.org
Meeting place for individuals and families to celebrate, learn, and stay healthy in both body and spirit. Home to the Peninsula JCC and the Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School.
Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8700 paloaltojcc.org/taube-koret-campus info@paloaltojcc.org
Welcoming, innovative, multi-generational destination where individuals and families live, learn, play and connect; anchored by the Oshman Family JCC and Moldaw Family Residences.
JCC s
Addison-Penzak JCC Los Gatos* 14855 Oka Road Suite 201 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7429/ Fax: (408) 358-7311 apjcc.org info@jvalley.org
Home to a fitness and aquatics center, tennis and sports programs and a preschool. Offers child care, youth camps and programs, adult education, senior programs and cultural events. Powered by Jewish Silicon Valley.
Contra Costa JCC
3527 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite 176 Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 938-7800 ccjcc.org info@ccjcc.org
Program Director: Riva Gambert
Serves the community with inclusive, dynamic programming and outreach at various venues. Features innovative programming including Young Family events, youth
activities, Under One Tent, Outside the Box and Project Impact.
JCC East Bay – Berkeley Branch* 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-0237/ Fax: (510) 848-0170 jcceastbay.org info@jcceastbay.org
CEO: Melissa Chapman
Inclusive community gathering place offers holiday celebrations, arts and culture, preschool, afterschool, camp, Maccabi games, adult classes and social action opportunities.
JCC Sonoma County 3421 Bonita Vista Lane Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 528-4222 jccsoco.org office@jccsoco.org
Offers multigenerational programs, Jewish film festival, Friendship Circle for adults 55+ and cultural events. Inclusive community center, committed to providing a deeper connection to Jewish life through cultural, educational and social opportunities.
JCCSF
3200 California St.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1200
Fax: (415) 276-1550 jccsf.org support@jccsf.org
CEO: Paul Geduldig
World-class lectures and performances, state-of-the-art fitness center, outstanding preschools and extracurricular enrichment, hundreds of inspiring educational, recreational, social and wellness programs.
Osher Marin JCC
200 N. San Pedro Road San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 444-8000
Celebrating 75 years. Fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, aquatic therapy, swim lessons, summer and vacation camps, performing arts center, classes and Jewish life programs. Year-round preschools in San Rafael and Mill Valley.
Oshman Family JCC*
3921 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8700
paloaltojcc.org info@paloaltojcc.org
President and CEO: Zack Bodner
Enriching lives. Building community. Inspiring Jewish journeys. The Oshman Family JCC Palo Alto on the Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life serves the South Peninsula through educational, social, cultural, fitness, sports and other programs.
Peninsula JCC*
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 212-PJCC (7522)
Fax: (650) 378-2799
pjcc.org
info@pjcc.org
CEO: Jordan Shenker
COO: Lael Gray
Public Affairs
A number of organizations champion Jewish interests and human rights in the wider community, offering opportunities for political and social activism. Participants serve on boards, staff programs and take an active role in supporting their goals.
American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)
Pacific Northwest Region P.O. Box 207
San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 989-4140
aipac.org
pacificnorthwest@aipac.org
Western States Director: Wayne Klitofsky
Bipartisan organization of pro-Israel Americans committed to strengthening and expanding the U.S.-Israel relationship in ways that enhance the security of both countries.
Connecting community, inspiring Jewish journeys, supporting vibrant health and wellness, and bringing people together for learning and living more joyfully.
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
COME IN AND DISCOVER:
• Indoor and outdoor workout options
• Personal training and group exercise classes
• Indoor recreational pool with swim lessons available
• Outdoor lap swimming
• Early childhood and family programs
• Afterschool and camp programs
• Classes, events, cultural performances and so much more! 50% OFF Find i t all at the OFJCC $0 Enrollment and 50% o
The Oshman Family JCC is proud to be a part of the Koret Initiative on Jewish Peoplehood.
American Jewish Committee (AJC)
Northern California Region
121 Steuart St. Suite 405
San Francisco, CA 94501 (415) 777-3820
ajc.org/sanfrancisco sanfrancisco@ajc.org
Director of Regional Engagement: Rabbi Serena Eisenberg
Development Director: Kim Bistrong
Global Jewish advocacy organization for more than a century working to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and to advance human rights and democratic values for all.
Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
Central Pacific Region 201 California St. Suite 325
San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 981-3500 sanfrancisco.adl.org central-pacific@adl.org
Regional Director: Marc Levine
Fights antisemitism and all forms of bias and bigotry through anti-bias training, exposing extremist activity, security training to Jewish institutions and much more.
Bend the Arc: Jewish Action California (212) 213-2113 ext 602 norcal.bendthearc.us norcal@bendthearc.us
Associate Organizing Director: Kayla Glick
Works to create a just and equitable country free from white supremacy. Mission rooted in a Jewish call to action, organizes American Jews to pursue economic and racial justice and civil rights.
Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC)*
San Francisco 121 Steuart St. Suite 301
San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 957-1551
jcrc.org
info@jcrc.org
CEO: Tyler Gregory
Largest collective voice of Bay Area Jews, advocates for the Jewish community and works together with other communities so the full vibrancy and diversity of Jewish identity will be embraced and celebrated.
Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC)
Silicon Valley
14855 Oka Road
Suite 200 Los Gatos, CA 95032 jvalley.org info@jvalley.org
Advocates for the Jewish community and works together with other communities so the full vibrancy and diversity of Jewish identity will be embraced and celebrated.
Executive Assistant and Board Liaison: Star Thurston
National effort builds and advances the professional, organizational and communal field for Jews of color, advancing racial equity in the Jewish community and strengthening the leadership of Jews of color.
Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa (JIMENA)
P.O Box 6872
San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 626-5062 jimena.org info@jimena.org
Executive Director: Sarah Levin
Senior Program Director: Sapir Taib
International, nonprofit organization pursues the advancement and inclusion of the heritage, history and rights of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews.
Raoul Wallenberg Jewish Democratic Club (RWJDC)
3450 Sacramento St. Suite 153
San Francisco, CA 94118 wallenbergdems.org info@wallenbergdems.org
Members engage in political action and civic participation to translate core Jewish values into public policy and to educate voters.
Arts and culture nonprofit reimagines and reinforces Jewish thought and traditions. Brings together artists, entrepreneurs and activists to transform the Jewish experience and society.
COUNSELING CAREER COACHING MEDICAL FINANCIAL AID FAMILY SERVICES GRANTS VOLUNTEER LGBTQ SUPPORT DONATIONS 6 | Social Services
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Career Coaching
In a changing job market, Jewish agencies offer counseling, help in resume writing, informational seminars, and retraining and rehabilitation, enabling job seekers to update their skills.
Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
1 Post St., 7th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 391-3600
Fax: (415) 391-3617 jvs.org info@jvs.org
CEO: Lisa Countryman-Quiroz
Offers career coaching (a one-on-one feebased program) and skill-training programs that provide job seekers with in-demand qualifications.
Counseling & Support
The agencies and organizations below offer specialized services. In addition, see the Family Services listings in this chapter for a complete listing of JFCS services and branches. The Bereavement section in Chapter 3, Lifecycles, deals specifically with mourning and loss.
AriYael Jewish Healing Center (925) 276-2770
ariyael.org admin@ariyael.org
Rabbi Dan Goldblatt
Offers individuals, couples and groups opportunities to experience and explore diverse modalities of Jewish spirituality, community, learning and healing. Essential support for those responding to illness, loss and all life transitions.
Jewish Chaplaincy Services
Stanford Medicine
300 Pasteur Drive, Suite HG004 Stanford, CA 94305 (650) 723-3808
Director: Chaplain Bruce Feldstein, M.D. Program Coordinator: Dana Doctorow
Jewish chaplains and trained volunteers, serves Stanford Medicine, provide spiritual comfort and compassionate care tailored to individual beliefs and needs. Goal is to ensure the patient and family are not alone.
JFCS Counseling
Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 jfcs.org/counseling info@jfcs.org
Experienced clinicians help individuals, couples and families meet life’s challenges. Expertise in depression, grief and loss, anxiety, stress, loneliness, significant life transitions, separation and divorce, job loss and illness. Provides in-person and teletherapy services.
JFCS Dream Program
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1212
jfcs.org/dreamprogram info@jfcs.org
Comprehensive services for domestic violence survivors, including in-depth assessment of medical, emotional, vocational, financial, educational and legal needs.
Project NOAH Community Services
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley P.O. Box 320490
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 556-0600/ Fax: (408) 317-1733 jfssv.org/gethelp jfs@jfssv.org
Provides a safety net of case management, advocacy and emergency assistance to indi-
viduals and families in Silicon Valley facing a life crisis or ongoing challenges.
San Francisco Hospital
Jewish Chaplaincy Program
Northern California Board of Rabbis San Francisco, CA (408) 550-6525 norcalrabbis.org/san-franciscojewish-chaplain/ chaplaincy@norcalrabbis.org
Chaplain: Jonathan Furst Administrator: Lynae Novominsky
Provides spiritual, emotional and cultural support for Jewish patients and their loved ones in San Francisco hospitals free of charge. Can offer a healing prayer, stop by to chat and be a resource.
Shalom Bayit: Ending Domestic Violence in Jewish Homes
Founding Executive Director: Naomi Tucker Director of Programs: Lev Amor
Bay Area Jewish resource center on genderbased violence. Counseling for abusive/ controlling relationships (Russian, Hebrew, English); domestic violence/sexual harassment training and consultation; youth and adult education on healthy relationships, boundaries, consent and preventing abuse.
Disability Services
Chaverim
Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay 2151 Salvio St., Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520 (925) 927-2000
jfcs-eastbay.org/chaverim info@jfcs-eastbay.org
Social and educational group for neurodivergent adult Jews and their families.
Hatikvah House
577 N. Central Ave. Campbell, CA 95008 (408) 379-0106
isahomes.org/hatikvah-home info@lsahomes.org
Administrator: Tsion Haile Board Member: Bruce Wolfe
Jewish group home for developmentally disabled adults. Independent-living training. Provides social, recreational and support programs for area families.
JFCS Disabilities Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties 2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-3805/ TDD: (415) 567-1044 Fax: (415) 449-3805 jfcs.org/disabilities-services ryanb@jfcs.org
Director of Disability Services: Ryan Berman
Comprehensive services and support for individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses or HIV/AIDS, including case management, counseling and support, meal delivery and personal/home care.
JFCS Shupin Community
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties 2150 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-3805 jfcs.org/shupin ryanb@jfcs.org
Director of Disability Services: Ryan Berman
Urban independent-living facility coupled with comprehensive, personalized support so that adults with developmental disabilities can live full lives and age with dignity.
L’Chaim Adult Day Health Center
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2534 Judah St. San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 449-2900/ Fax: (415) 449-2901 jfcs.org/find-help/seniors/lchaimhealth-center annab@jfcs.org
Program Director: Anna Borovik Intake Coordinator: Lyudmila Mashinskaya
Licensed adult day-health program providing medical, rehabilitative and social services to frail elderly and adults with functional impairments; offers special outreach to Russian-speaking individuals.
Émigré Services
Jewish community agencies offer help to new immigrants in a number of areas: housing, job training and placements, loans and cash assistance, day care, social services, language classes and citizenship preparation. Other services are provided through synagogues and JCCs.
JFCS Émigré Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties jfcs.org/emigres info@jfcs.org
Multilingual staff has helped thousands of Russian-speaking emigres to acculturate and start new lives. Services include legal guidance, citizenship classes, counseling, loans and grants, senior day programs and more.
San Francisco 2534 Judah St. San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 449-2900
Comprehensive, innovative services for the Russian-speaking community. Bilingual staff helps people to build successful lives in a new culture and successfully manage transitions and crises.
Provides initial refugee resettlement as well as ongoing guidance as newcomers learn to live and be successful in a new country.
Refugee Resettlement and Acculturation Services
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley P.O. Box 320490
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 807-0772/ Fax: (408) 317-1802 jfssv.org
jfs@jfssv.org
A leading refugee resettlement agency in Northern California and the Western U.S., JFS SV provides resettlement and career services to 1,000+ refugees annually.
Family Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties jfcs.org
Executive Director: Dr. Anita Friedman
San Francisco — main office 2150 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1200/ TDD: (415) 345-1927 Fax: (415) 449-3839 info@jfcs.org
Marin 600 Fifth Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 419-3600/ Fax: (415) 419-3657 marin@jfcs.org
North Peninsula 2001 Winward Way, Suite 200 San Mateo, CA 94404 (650) 931-1800/ Fax: (650) 931-1814 sanmateo@jfcs.org
South Peninsula 200 Channing Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 688-3030/ Fax: (650) 543-4794 spen@jfcs.org
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
JFCS East Bay Refugee
Services
Jewish Family & Community Services
East Bay
2151 Salvio St., Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520
Sonoma County 2200 Range Ave., Suite 101 Santa Rosa, CA 94503 (707) 303-1500 sonoma@jfcs.org
Services for individuals and families: senior home care, counseling and emergency assistance, food, therapy for children, parent consultation, youth programs, adoption,
disabilities services and support for Holocaust survivors.
Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay
2151 Salvio St., Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520 (925) 927-2000
jfcs-eastbay.org
info@jfcs-eastbay.org
CEO: Robin Mencher
Community-based, direct social and human services organization that supports Alameda and Contra Costa county residents of all ages, races and religions with the vision of a community where everyone can flourish with dignity.
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley*
P.O. Box 320490
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 556-0600/ Fax: (408) 317-1733 jfssv.org
jfs@jfssv.org
Chief Executive Officer: Susan Frazer, LCSW Director of Development & Community Engagement: Debbie Michels
Comprehensive social services and programs for Silicon Valley residents of all ages, religions or races, including individuals and families, older adults and caregivers, refugees and Holocaust survivors.
Grants & Financial Aid
A number of Jewish community agencies provide financial assistance to individuals through funding they receive from the Northern California Jewish Federations as well as other fundraising efforts. For specific loan, grant and scholarship information, please contact the agencies below.
Hebrew Free Loan*
131 Steuart St. Suite 520 San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 546-9902/ Fax: (415) 546-7479 hflasf.org
info@hflasf.org
Operations Officer: Valerie Rocklin
Executive Director: Cindy Rogoway
Interest-free loans to Jewish residents of Northern California to overcome financial challenges and pursue life dreams. Loans include student, business, debt consolidation, fertility, health care, emergency, first-time homebuyer and more.
Helping you meet the unique challenges of aging.
Serving Silicon Valley, the Rick and Doris Davis Center for Aging and Caregiver Services offers personalized care coordination, in-home caregiver services, and fall prevention/ home safety support. Experience convenience, compassion and support all in one place.
Managing Director, Engagement, Community Impact: David Green
Makes meaningful Jewish experiences accessible and affordable by providing grants and funding for various experiences and opportunities. These may include teen camps and trips, journeys to Israel and youth and family camps.
Provides funding through scholarships and grants to children and teens, which may include overnight camps, teen leadership and trips to Israel. Procedures ensure fairness and confidentiality.
JFCS Financial Aid Center
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1226
Fax: (415) 848-7012
jfcs.org/financial-aid michellel@jfcs.org
Director of Financial Aid Center: Michelle Lamphere
No-interest loans and grants for pandemic recovery, small businesses, undergraduate/ graduate studies, vocational training, Israel study, Jewish summer camp. Emergency aid for housing, food and other essentials on short-term basis.
Health & Medical
Familial Dysautonomia Prevention and Education Program (510) 654-5882
familialdysautonomia.org michael.rancer@gmail.com
Past President, FD Hope: Michael Rancer F.D. is a progressive and fatal genetic disease found almost exclusively among
Ashkenazi Jews. Carrier testing available at Kaiser health centers and other private laboratories.
Jewish Community Free Clinic 50 Montgomery Drive Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 585-7780
Fax: (707) 585-7784
jewishfreeclinic.org
director@jewishfreeclinic.org
Executive Director: Donna Waldman
Clinical Director: Deborah Roberts
Free, volunteer-based medical clinic offers care to anyone in need — regardless of ethnicity or religion. Bilingual medical, nursing and referral services. Always in need of volunteer medical providers and support staff and special project volunteers.
UC SF Prenatal Diagnostic Center
Department of OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences
1825 Fourth St., Third Floor, Reception C San Francisco, CA 94158
For all women, pregnant or not. Information on carrier screening for multiple disorders affecting Ashkenazi Jews. Centers in San Francisco, Greenbrae, Monterey and San Mateo.
UC SF-Stanford
Lysosomal Storage Disease Center
Ron Conway Family Gateway Medical Building 1825 Fourth St., Sixth Floor
Provides comprehensive consultation, clinical and laboratory evaluations, diagnosis, treatment and genetic counseling for patients with lysosomal storage disorders and their families.
LGBTQ Support
Congregation Sha’ar Zahav
290 Dolores St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 861-6932 shaarzahav.org office@shaarzahav.org
Executive Director: Danny Shapiro
Rabbi Mychal Copeland
Progressive, diverse and participatory Jewish community, established in 1977, that honors and maintains its LGBTQ culture and history while welcoming all.
JFCS LGBTQ Services
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1214
jfcs.org/lgbtq robynb@jfcs.org
Counseling services for individuals, couples and families — with special outreach to the elderly, services for people with HIV, workshops, seminars and adoption services.
Keshet Bay Area
2625 Alcatraz Ave. Suite 275 Berkeley, CA 94705 (415) 766-0390 keshetonline.org eliana.kayelle@keshetonline.org
Bay Area Education and Training Manager: Rabbi Eliana Kayelle
National organization working for full LGBTQ equality and inclusion in Jewish life.
A Wider Bridge
2912 Diamond St., Suite 348 San Francisco, CA 94131 (866) 288-5774 awiderbridge.org info@awiderbridge.org
Executive Director: Ethan Felson
Pro-Israel organization working to create opportunities for LGBTQ people in the U.S., along with friends and allies, to engage and connect with Israel.
Material Donations
Book Bank USA, Inc.
70 Mitchell Blvd., Suite 106
San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 479-7902
Fax: (415) 479-5464
bookbankusa.org
kluger001@aol.com
President: Andrew Kluger
Accepts and distributes books, computers, games and educational materials to schools,
libraries and youth in Israel. Distributes high-tech materials to colleges and businesses.
Chabad of the East Bay P.O. Box 5292 Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 540-5824
chabadberkeley.org office@chabadberkeley.org
Contact: Sharalyn Stebben
Accepts cars, boats, motor vehicles (working and non-working, in most cases) and estate items. Proceeds used for social programs, educational, community and children’s programs.
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1283
Fax: (415) 449-3839
jfcs.org/give stacyr@jfcs.org
Donors can make a big impact on the lives of those who have little by contributing
a car, boat, computer, household items or other gently used property.
Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay 2151 Salvio St. Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520 (925) 927-2000
Accepts donations of furniture and household items such as toiletries, cleaning supplies and newly purchased household goods (no clothing please) for direct service to refugees, immigrants and low-income families across the East Bay.
Director of Development & Community Engagement: Debbie Michels
Donate working or non-working cars, boats
or motor homes to help provide services for older adults, families, Holocaust survivors and refugees. Obtain a tax deduction while helping those in need.
Volunteer Placement
Most Jewish organizations welcome help from volunteers. For specific placements, contact individual agencies and organizations.
JFCS Volunteer Program
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties 2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1200/ TDD: (415) 345-1927
jfcs.org/volunteer info@jfcs.org
Volunteers serve thousands each year. Opportunities for youth and adults throughout the Bay Area to reach out to the isolated, elderly and persons with disabilities; food bank organization and deliveries; holiday outreach and more.
JFCS Kosher Meals on Wheels program in San Francisco delivers hot, nutritious meals to frail, homebound seniors with a kosher tradition. (Photo/JFCS)
DAY CAMPS TEEN PROGRAMS SPORTS PRESCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL MIDRASHOT SPECIAL NEEDS RECREATION SUPPORT 7 | Kids & Teens
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Family Resources
Jewish Family and Community Services
East Bay 2484 Shattuck Ave., Suite 210 Berkeley, CA 94704 (925) 927-2000 jfcs-eastbay.org info@jfcs-eastbay.org
Offers a range of supportive services for children and families in the East Bay, including preschool consultation and therapy.
Parents Place
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties (888) 927-0839
ccy.jfcs.org/parentsplace parentsplace@jfcs.org
Palo Alto
200 Channing Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301
Marin County 600 Fifth Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901
San Mateo
2001 Winward Way, Suite 200 San Mateo, CA 94404
Experienced, compassionate parent educators provide parent consultation and coaching, educational workshops, support groups, pregnancy and post-natal support. Services offered online and in person.
PJ Library® Bay Area
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 jewishfed.org/pjlibrary pjlibrary@sfjcf.org
Director: Vivien Braly
Provides free Jewish books for children from birth through age 12 and helps families explore traditions, celebrate holidays and build community across the Bay Area.
PJ Library® of Silicon Valley
Jewish Silicon Valley 4855 Oka Road, Suite 201 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7508
Family educator and PJ Library Manager, Silicon Valley: Tami Segal
Sends free Jewish-themed books to families with children age 6 months to 8 years. To register, go to pjlibrary.org or email tamis@jvalley.org.
Tawonga Down the Mountain: Bay Area Programs
Camp Tawonga
131 Steuart St., Suite 460 San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-2267
tawonga.org/year-round info@tawonga.org
Senior Director, Programs and Innovation: Ryley Katz
Associate Director, Bay Area Programs: Meg Adler
Brings the joy of Tawonga to the Bay – all year-long for all ages. Offers b’nai mitzvah programming, Tawonga Family School, Shabbat Singalongs, High Holiday celebrations and more. Generous financial assistance available.
Yossi’s Children’s Library
Gan Torah Preschool 2015 Latham St. Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 390-0100 yossislibrary.org library@gantorah.com
Director: Esti Rosenblat
Lending library offers a wide selection of Jewish books and media for children up to age 12 including fiction and nonfiction, comics, holiday-focused books and more.
Educational Resources
Institute for Modern Judaism (925) 212-5679 modernjudaism.org
info@modernjudaism.org
Director and Lead Educator: Noah Zaves-Greene
Enlivens Jewish heritage, identity and culture for teens and young adults through interactive seminars, educational consulting and curriculum development.
The Holiday Series
Chabad of Sunnyvale (408) 720-0553 chabadsunnyvale.com
rabbi@chabadsunnyvale.com
Director: Rabbi Yisroel Hecht
Holiday and mitzvah workshops for schools and youth groups. Students create articles such as matzahs, shofars or tallits at the school. Program is five workshops.
Jewish LearningWorks
1770 Post St. Suite 145 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 751-6983 jewishlearning.works info@jewishlearning.works
CEO: Dana Sheanin
Elevates the field of Jewish education by nurturing educators, inspiring innovation and building Jewish literacy.
Strengthens Jewish educators and emboldens Jewish youth to thrive by pursuing personal well-being. Challenges gender stereotypes and other forms of discrimination. Combines positive psychology with Jewish values.
Preschools & Daycare
Innovation and creativity are hallmarks of Jewish preschool and daycare facilities in the Bay Area. Most of these facilities are affiliated with congregations or a JCC, where Jewish values, practices and celebrations are an integral part of education. Celebrations of Shabbat and Jewish holidays
deepen connections to Judaism. Please call individual preschools for times and days of operation.
East Bay
Beth El Nursery School (BENS)
Congregation Beth El 1301 Oxford St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-9428 bethelnurseryschool.net jodi@bethelberkeley.org Director: Jodi Gladstone Associate Director: Julia Straws
Children can develop as independent, caring people. School emphasizes the richness and joy of Judaism within a diverse world. Full- and half-day programs for ages 2-5.
Beth Sholom Preschool
Temple Beth Sholom 642 Dolores Ave. San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 357-8505 x3 Fax: (510) 357-1375 tbssanleandro.com/preschool preschool@tbssanleandro.org
Preschool Director: Amanda Chase
Enriching preschool forages 2-6; non-toilettrained OK. Shabbat, holidays celebrated. Developmentally appropriate curriculum. 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Outdoor area, weekly music, gymnastic and storyteller specialist.
Developmental program for ages 2 to 5 years. Children learn about their heritage and their world through arts and crafts, cooking, music and dramatic play.
Congregation Netivot Shalom Preschool 1316 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94702 (510) 549-9447 ext 110 netivotshalom.org/cns-preschool preschool@netivotshalom.org
Preschool Director: Karen Llamas
Serves ages 2 to pre-K, with emergent, nature-rich approach to learning while weaving Jewish life, practice and culture throughout each day.
Gan Avraham Preschool Temple Beth Abraham
327 MacArthur Blvd.
Mail to: 336 Euclid Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 763-7528/ (510) 832-0936 tbaoakland.org gan.director@tbaoakland.org
Gan Director: Rachel Fenyves
Play-based preschool ages 2-5, where children experience the richness and variety of Jewish life through hands-on experiences. Full-day or part-time programs.
Gan B’nai Shalom Preschool
74 Eckley Lane Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 933-7633/ Fax: (925) 934-9450 bshalom.org preschool@bshalom.org Director: Marla Medwin
Nurturing developmental program rich with Jewish culture. Providing children a foundation to grow educationally, socially, spiritually. 6 weeks to pre-K. Extended care 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Accreditation: Early Learning Leaders.
Gan Chabad Preschool
Chabad of the Tri-Valley 784 Palomino Drive Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 846-0700 jewishtrivalley.com/preschool fruma@jewishtrivalley.com Director: Fruma Resnick
Holistic blend of educational theories; integrating Jewish values. Shabbat celebrations and challah baking. Focusing on social, cognitive, emotional, physical and academic development.
Gan Ilan Preschool
Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County 945 Risa Road Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 284-8453
temple-isaiah.org/education/ gan-ilan-preschool ganilan@temple-isaiah.org Director of Early Childhood Education: Courtney Ludlow
Developmental preschool program with emphasis on the beauty of Jewish tradition. Early morning and afternoon extended care available.
Gan Mah Tov
Beth Jacob Congregation 3778 Park Blvd. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 530-2146
ganmahtov.org director@ganmahtov.org
Director: Anna Bencuya
Year-round Modern Orthodox preschool (2-5 years) and infant and toddler program (4 months-2 years). Full- or part-time care available. Emphasizes social development, emotional expression and Jewish values/ traditions.
Gan Sameach Preschool and Daycare
Temple Beth Torah
Mail to: P.O. Box 6017 Fremont, CA 94538
42000 Paseo Padre Parkway Fremont, CA 94539 (510) 651-5833
Fax: (510) 656-5380 gansameach.org
gsameach@bethtorah-fremont.org
Director of Preschool: Annie Jacob
Developmentally appropriate, play-based program guided by Jewish values. Experienced teachers for children from 2 to 5 years. Diapers OK.
Gan Shalom Preschool Congregation Beth Israel 1630 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94703 (510) 848-3298 ganshalomberkeley.org director@ganshalomberkeley.org
Director: Emma Schnur
Developmental program for ages 2 to 5 years. Enriched curriculum focuses on Judaica in a play-based, homelike setting. Extended day care available.
Gan Yiladim of Contra Costa (925) 937-4101 jewishcontracosta.com/preschool chaya@jewishcontracosta.com Director: Chaya Berkowitz
A premier Jewish preschool in downtown Walnut Creek serving children from infancy to 5 years old.
JCC East Bay Preschool 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-0237 jcceastbay.org nicole.whear@jcceastbay.org
Preschool Director: Nicole Acland-Whear
Award-winning preschool with extended care program for ages 2-5 and transitional kindergarten program based on Jewish culture and heritage.
Private, year-round, inclusive Jewish preschool for children ages 2 to 5. Offers an ideal balance of play and hands-on academic learning. School nurtures the whole child, and helps children develop a lifelong love of learning.
North Bay
Gan Israel Preschool of Petaluma
B’nai Israel Jewish Center 740 Western Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 763-5136 ganisraelpreschoolpetaluma.com teri@bnaiisrael.net Director: Teri Porter
Over 40 years of experience, committed to providing a meaningful, developmental educational program that embraces play-based, child-centered, emergent and outdoor curricula.
Gan Outdoor Preschool
1055 Las Ovejas, #6 San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 507-0460 ganisraelsanrafael.com
morahgittel@yahoo.com
Director: Gittel R. Goodman
Nature/play-based outdoor program filled with children’s discoveries and knowledge. Community school that welcomes all; relationship-based. Founded on the values of kindness and respect.
The Grove Preschool at Kol Shofar 215 Blackfield Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 (415) 388-1012 grovepreschool.org grovepreschool@kolshofar.org
Director: Katherine Barboni
Rooted in Jewish tradition and the idyllic hills of Tiburon, spacious classrooms and expansive outdoor play areas. Unique outdoor-centered environment provides opportunities for exploration so children can observe, learn and grow.
JCC Sonoma County Preschool 3421 Bonita Vista Lane Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 528-4272 jccsocopreschool.org sarahgrace@jccsoco.org
Director: Sarah Welton
Magical and nurturing. A Reggio-inspired preschool focused on social-emotional growth with wonder and curiosity to inspire a lifelong love of learning through Jewish values.
Osher Marin JCC Preschool and Early Childhood Education Center* tlai@marinjcc.org
Director of Early Childhood Education: Tamar Lai Mill Valley 36 Tiburon Blvd. Mill Valley, CA 94941
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
(415) 388-1409
marinjcc.org/preschool-main
Site Director: Erin Burns
San Rafael
200 N. San Pedro Road
San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 444-8000
marinjcc.org/preschool
Site Director: Amanda McAdams
Offers toddler, preschool and early childhood education programs plus family programs inspired by Jewish values and traditions. Environment is inclusive, making every child and family welcome.
South Bay/Peninsula
Addison-Penzak JCC Preschool
14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7417/ Fax: (408) 827-9671
apjcc.org/preschool preschool@jvalley.org
Director of Early Childhood Education: Cyndi Sherman
Fully licensed Jewish preschool and day care for ages 18 months to 5 years. Extended care available. After-school enrichment classes and summer camp also offered. Powered by Jewish Silicon Valley.
Chai Preschool (650) 345-2424 chaischool.com admin@chaischool.com Director: Esty Marcus
ofjcc leslie family preschool
Offers an enriching and vibrant early childhood experience. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. Goal is to provide a nurturing and empowering program imbued with Jewish values and traditions.
Gan Torah Preschool
Guided by Jewish principles, the playbased curriculum is designed to facilitate deeper understanding and growth, led by the children’s interests, experimentation and inquiry. For ages 2–4. Options: traditional and year-round; part- and full-time.
Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center
20 Cherry Blossom Lane
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-1751 ext 115 shecc.org mercedes@shirhadash.org
Preschool & Early Childhood Programs
� Constructivist play-based learning
� Jewish values & traditions
� Hebrew immersion available
� Gardening, music, swimming
� Multiple schedule options & much more!
paloaltojcc.org/preschool
2015 Latham St. Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 390-0100 gantorah.com office@gantorah.com
Preschool Director: Esti Rosenblat
Provides a warm and loving environment fostering curiosity and exploration. Teaches strong Torah values and preschool skills with play-based education and positive discipline.
Osman Family JCC
Leslie Family Preschool*
3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8788 paloaltojcc.org/preschool earlychildhood@paloaltojcc.org Director: Ilana Gelemovich
Innovative, play-based Jewish preschool that offers regular and extended care, camps and Hebrew immersion options for children 18 months through 5 years, while celebrating and fostering Jewish values and traditions.
Peninsula Temple Sholom Preschool 1655 Sebastian Drive Burlingame, CA 94010 (650) 697-2279 sholom.org preschool@sholom.org Director: Allison Steckley
Provides developmentally appropriate environment where children are encouraged to develop their curiosity through play and challenging experiences. NAEYC accredited.
Peninsula JCC Preschool*
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 378-2670/ Fax: (650) 378-2699 pjcc.org/preschool preschool@pjcc.org
Senior Director of Early Childhood Education, Youth and Family Engagement: Nicole Francis
Preschool Director: Mercedes Mendoza
Innovative Reggio Emilia-inspired program for children from age 2 to TK. (18month-old program coming soon). Full- or partial-day enrollment for two, three, four or five days per week.
Sinai Nursery School
Congregation Sinai 1532 Willowbrae Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 264-8486 sinai-sj.org sinainurseryschool@sinai-sj.org
Director, Early Childhood Education: Ifat Kantorovich
Developmentally appropriate curriculum in small, nurturing environment that models and teaches Jewish values. Ages 2 years to pre-K. New program for 18-month-olds. Full day or part time. Extended care available.
Head of School: Rabbi Perry Tirschwell Admissions Director: Atara Goldberg
Jewish preschool for 1.5-5 years old. Inspires children to wonder and follow their interests in Hebrew and English. Programs begin at 8:15 a.m., with dismissal at 12:30 or 3:45 p.m. Aftercare available up to 5:15 p.m.
Temple Emanu-El Preschool 1010 University Ave. San Jose, CA 95126 (408) 293-8660
Fax: (408) 200-1164
templesanjose.org
barbara@templesanjose.org
Preschool Director: Barbara Smead
Oshman Family JCC (650) 223-8700 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA 94303
The Oshman Family JCC is proud to be a part of the Koret Initiative on Jewish Peoplehood.
Award-winning, fully accredited preschool, well-equipped facility, professional staff. Provides stimulating program with strong Jewish content.
San Francisco
Cole Valley Gan Preschool 1300 Shrader St. San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 797-7231 colevalleygan.com chaya@chabadcv.org Director: Chaya Potash
Play-based Jewish preschool with a strong emphasis on emotional intelligence, problem-solving, creativity and interpersonal social skills.
Congregation Beth Sholom
Family Preschool
301 14th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 940-7094 bethsholomsf.org/preschool dkleisley@bethsholomsf.org
Director of Early Childhood Education and Family Engagement: Dale Kleisley
Preschool infused with Judaic values and culture; enriches the lives of young children and their families by providing opportunities for learning, creativity, exploration and curiosity.
Congregation Emanu-El Preschool 2 Lake St.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 751-2541 x 118 (415) 751-2535/Fax: (415) 751-2511 emanuelsf.org ngreenberg@emanuelsf.org Director: Nika Greenberg
Inquiry-based preschool, grounded in Jewish values, provides children ages 2 to 5 years with opportunities to learn both in the classroom and in nature.
Gan Noe Preschool
Chabad of Noe Valley 3771 Cesar Chavez St. San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 648-8000 gannoe.org gannoepreschool@gmail.com Director: Leah Potash
For ages 2-5 years. Stimulating and nurturing environment. Songs, organic snacks and lunches, yoga, gym, arts. Jewish values.
JCCSF
Claude and Louise Rosenberg Early Childhood Education Program
Brotherhood Way Preschool 655 Brotherhood Way San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 333-4289
Inspired by the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach and guided by Jewish
values and culture, children learn and come to understand their world through play.
Shalom School
862 28th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 831-8399
Fax: (415) 831-8366
shalomschoolsf.com
shalomschool@gmail.com
Director: Hinda Langer
Stimulating learning/play environment with Jewish values and celebrations. Diller Award-winning pre-K teacher. Groups for ages 18 months to 5 years. Part-time or full-time. English, Russian and Hebrew spoken.
Sherith Israel Preschool* 2266 California St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 347-8037 sherithisrael.org/preschool preschool@sherithisrael.org
Preschool Director: Carolyn Mulcahy
Community-based Jewish program for young learners that examines the connection between humans and nature. Curriculum embraces children’s natural curiosity and innate affinity for the environment. All families welcome.
Full- or part-time programs. NAEYC and BJE accredited. Parent participation. Ages 2 to 5.5 years.
Day Schools & High Schools
East Bay
The Cheder of the Bay Area
3370 Hopyard Road
Pleasanton, CA 94588 (925) 846-0700 thecheder.info rabbi@jewishtrivalley.com
Dean: Rabbi Raleigh Resnick
Principal: Chavie Zebberman
K-8th grade Orthodox Jewish day school where hearts and minds are kindled with a love for G-d and Torah. Wholesome atmosphere wherein each student’s academic, social and developmental needs are nurtured.
Assistant Principal for Advancement and Operations: Eden Allswang Bruner
Grades K-8. Promotes academic excellence in Jewish and general studies, including science, art, drama, music and P.E. Cross-curricular service learning. Emphasis on social/emotional development. Low student-teacher ratios. Accredited by CAIS and WASC.
Oakland Hebrew Day School*
5500 Redwood Road Oakland, CA 94619 (510) 531-8600 ohds.org info@ohds.org
Admissions Director: Tamar Sandel
A Bridge-K to 8th grade Jewish day school with Hebrew immersion, joyful Jewish learning and academic excellence that serves the diverse Bay Area community.
North Bay
Brandeis Marin
180 N. San Pedro Road San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 472-1833 brandeismarin.org pwelner@brandeismarin.org
Head of School: Dr. Peg Sandel
Director of Enrollment Management: Pamela Welner
Independent, coeducational K-8 Jewish day school reflects the diversity of the Marin Jewish communal fabric as well as the varied religious, cultural and socio-economic tapestry of the world around us.
Peninsula/South Bay
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School
450 San Antonio Road Palo Alto, CA 94306
hausnerschool.org
admissions@hausnerschool.org
Head of School: Rabbi Daniel Lehmann Director of Enrollment and Family Engagement: Valerie Porush Hoffman
TK-8 Jewish community day school that brings together children from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, welcoming students who are ready to think deeply, question meaningfully,and grow ethically.
The Harker School* San Jose, CA (408) 249-2510 harker.org communications@harker.org
Director of Admission, TK-12: Danielle Holquin
Coeducational, independent, college preparatory day school that educates students in kindergarten through grade 12. Four campuses offer outstanding facilities, leading-edge technology and space for students to learn, play and grow.
Kehillah Jewish High School
3900 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 213-9600
Fax: (650) 213-9601
kehillah.org
admissions@kehillah.org
Head of School: Daisy Pellant, Ph.D. Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management: David Weiner, Ed.D
Students embark on a journey of discovery guided by dedicated educators. They graduate with the knowledge, values and community that facilitate extraordinary futures.
Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School
800 Foster City Blvd.
Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 378-2611/ Fax: (650) 378-2669 wornickjds.org
admissions@wornickjds.org
Head of School: Adam Eilath
Director of Admissions & Community Engagement: Annie O’Donnell
Transitional kindergarten to eighth grade
independent school featuring challenging academics and timeless Jewish values.
Head of School: Rabbi Perry Tirschwell Admissions Director: Atara Goldberg
Curriculum integrates Hebrew, Judaic studies and general studies: teachers work to build strong academic, social and emotional foundation, grounded in Jewish values. Grades K-8.
Yavneh Day School*
14855 Oka Road, Suite 100 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 984-6700
Offers academic excellence and Jewish studies within a strong community where each child is celebrated and challenged. K-8th grade.
San Francisco
Bais Menachem Yeshiva Day School 834 28th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 636-9770 bmyds.org bmydsoffice@gmail.com
Judaic Studies: Rabbi Gedalia Potash
General Studies : Mrs. Chani Zarchi
Rigorous dual curriculum program of Judaic and general studies serving grades K to 8. The only WASC-accredited Orthodox Jewish day school in San Francisco.
The Brandeis School of San Francisco* 655 Brotherhood Way San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 406-1035
Independent K-8 Jewish day school with students who study and live with a strong sense of purpose. Offering tuition assistance, after-school program and bus service.
Jewish Community High School of the Bay 1835 Ellis St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 345-9777
jchsofthebay.org admissions@jchsofthebay.org
Director of Enrollment Management: Mary Ellen Hunt
Head of School: Rabbi Howard Jacoby Ruben
College preparatory high school committed to integrating deep learning, universal wisdom and Jewish values. Developing the promise of each individual through the strength of community.
After-School Programs
East Bay Club Kesher After School*
Temple Sinai 2808 Summit St. Oakland, CA 94609 (510) 451-3263
The Brandeis School of San Francisco provides students with a rigorous kindergarten to 8th grade curriculum infused with Jewish culture, values, and traditions. Learn more about Brandeis, including how to apply, by visiting us online at sfbrandeis.org.
High-quality Hebrew language/Jewish experiential learning program; offered after school and during select school breaks for children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their families.
Kid-ish
Club: Where Fun Meets Learning for Tots and Their Families
Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County 945 Risa Road Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 283-8575 temple-isaiah.org joyp@temple-isaiah.org
Assistant Director of Engagement: Joy Plummer Director of Engagement: Rabbi Alissa Miller
Bringing a vibrant array of interactive events tailored specifically for children aged 0-5 and their families.
Yotzrot Makom (Creating Space)
JCC East Bay 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 jcceastbay.org/youth-family/ teen-programs/yotzrot-makom briannas@jcceastbay.org
Teen Director: Brianna Sommer
As part of a collective Midrash project that includes marginalized and/or silenced voices, middle school girls examine meaningful themes in biblical, talmudic and contemporary Jewish stories of females. Meetings on alternate Sundays.
South Bay/Peninsula
Beged Kefet Hebrew Language School
Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8753
Administrator and Operations Coordinator: Keren Erlich
Language school for grades K-12 teaches the fundamentals of modern Hebrew as well as topics that characterize Israeli culture, such as Jewish holidays, stories and music. Fully accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Club J
Oshman Family JCC
3921 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8679 paloaltojcc.org/clubj clubj@paloaltojcc.org
Director: Braylen Nivera
Monday–Friday after-school program that runs until 6 p.m. Offers a one-of-a-kind, licensed program providing a wide range of activities to engage children from transitional kindergarten through 12 years old.
Peninsula JCC Sports and Recreation
800 Foster City Blvd.
Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 212-PJCC (7522) Fax: (650) 378-2753 pjcc.org memberservices@pjcc.org
Offers a variety of fitness and recreation programs, an award-winning swim program, classes and activities.
San Francisco
Congregation Beth Sholom
Youth Education
301 14th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 940-7098 bethsholomsf.org/youth-education alowy@bethsholomsf.org
Lifelong Learning Moreh Derech: Adam Lowy
Moadon for grades K-5th. B’nai Mitzvah program for 6th-7th. Shabbat School program for grades K-7th: Torah stories, tefillah, Jewish values, holidays and community building. Jews for Hot Cocoa for 8th-12th graders.
JCCSF
3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1239
Tikvah School of Music and Dance jccsf.org/program/tikvah ynemirovskaya@jccsf.org
Yanina Nemirovskaya
Unique bicultural kids’ program, taught in Russian by native-speaking instructors, that explores Jewish culture
through music, dance, art and Shabbat celebrations.
Youth Recreation and Sports Programs jccsf.org/youth-family bwells@jccsf.org
Director of Aquatics, Athletics and Recreation: Bryan Wells Director of Family Life, Youth & Family: Sophia Rutkin
Programs for kids ages 6 weeks through high school. Make lifelong friends through dance, sports, swim and playdate classes and camps.
Special Needs Support
Bay Area Friendship Circle 3921 Fabian Way, Suite A023 Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 858-6990 bayareafc.org info@bayareafc.org
Executive Director: Ezzy Schusterman
Fosters an inclusive, supportive community for children, teens and young adults with special needs through year-round programs plus summer and winter camps.
JFCS Center for Children and Youth Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties (888) 927-0839 ccy.jfcs.org
San Francisco 1710 Scott St. P.O. Box 159004
San Francisco, CA 94115
San Mateo
2001 Winward Way Suite 200
San Mateo, CA 94404
Palo Alto
200 Channing Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301
San Rafael 600 Fifth Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901
Comprehensive services/support for children, teens and families: speech, language, occupational therapy; counseling; social skills groups; school advocacy; assessment and evaluations; parenting workshops and consultation. A ER-SCHOOL @ TEMPLE SINAI For K–5th graders, starting AUGUST 2024!
➜ Transportation from local area schools
➜ Art, music, homework help and more! ➜ FUN, camp-style, Jewish and hebrew learning
➜ Full day sessions offered when school isn’t in session
or
Hebrew & Sunday Schools
Listings below include only independent Hebrew and Sunday schools. Many Bay Area Chabad locations offer independent Sunday schools with no membership required. For information on congregation-affiliated schools, call individual synagogues listed in Chapter 4, Religious Life & Congregations.
Open Tent Be Mitzvah judaismyourway.org/life-cycle-events/ open-tent-be-mitzvah luke@judaismyourway.org
Educator: Elizheva Hurvich
New small group learning experience. Twoyear, in-person program where students/ youth explore Jewish traditions, unpack prayers, practice mitzvot, cook Jewish food and celebrate holidays to discover and develop their individual identity.
Palo Alto School for Jewish Education Mail to: 1769 Hillsdale Ave. Suite 24181 San Jose, CA 95154 (415) 800-1836 pasje.org info@pasje.org
Nurtures Jewish identity through independent, nonprofit Sunday school, preschool–8th grade. History, culture, ethics, Hebrew and b’nai mitzvah program. Family holiday celebrations. Active parent group. Interfaith families encouraged.
Studio @ Sherith Israel 2266 California St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 349-5218 sherithisrael.org/youtheducation studio@sherithisrael.org
Education Director: Jonathan Emanuel
Playful approach to serious Jewish learning, helping Jewish youth build basic Jewish literacy, essential social-emotional skills and positive associations with Judaism and the Jewish people.
Midrashot & Havurot
Midrashot and Havurot (community high school programs) offer classes and service opportunities for teens.
Berkeley-Oakland Midrasha
JCC East Bay 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 529-4995
Fun, engaging, pluralistic program provides Jewish learning and social experiences, retreats, workshops and special events for teens. Meets on Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m.
Contra Costa Midrasha Congregation B’nai Tikvah 25 Hillcroft Way Walnut Creek, CA 94597 (925) 944-4701
ccmidrasha.com
office@ccmidrasha.com
Executive Director: Devra C. Aarons
Multifaceted program for Jewish teens (grades 8-12). Wednesday night meetings (7:15-9:15 p.m.). Weekend retreats and special programs: Mifgash (Israeli teen exchange), Hamsa Fund, Better Together (intergenerational connections) and Project Ezrach (change-making and citizenry skills).
Teens @ Studio @ Sherith Israel 2266 California St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 349-5218
Teens learn to unpack Jewish texts, respectfully discuss hot topics and find Jewish meaning in all parts of their lives.
Teen Programs
Bay Area Friendship Circle 3921 Fabian Way Suite A023
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 858-6990
bayareafc.org info@bayareafc.org
Executive Director: Ezzy Schusterman
Provides teens the opportunity to mentor and provide friendship to a child/teen with special needs, gaining empathy and leadership skills while learning about the importance of community.
BBYO Central Region West (Bay Area) (510) 592-4034 bbyo.org/bbyo-near-you crw@bbyo.org
Senior Regional Director: David Schoenholtz
Associate Regional Director: Brandon Kaufman
East Bay
Temple Beth Abraham 336 Euclid Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 592-4034
Silicon Valley (650) 603-0469
Pluralistic organization, open to any Jewish teen in high school. Focuses on leadership and engaging teens in Jewish experiences.
Club Z
1055 Riverton Drive San Carlos, CA 94070 clubz.org info@clubz.org
Bay Area Regional Director: Karin Feygenberg
Deputy Director: Devora Fine
Creates a network of educated and articulate activists with a commitment to Zionism who advocate for Israel.
Diller Teens
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund 121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 512-6268
Teen Fellows Coordinator: Sarah Turtletaub Diller Teen Fellows Program Coordinator: Ben Zalaznick
Fellowship for 11th graders focused on community, Jewish identity, Israel engagement and leadership development. Includes workshops, retreats, hosting an Israeli teen and an Israel seminar.
Tikkun Olam Awards dillerteenawards.org dillerteenawards@sfjcf.org
Recognizes 15 Jewish teens for exceptional community service and outstanding leadership in repairing the world with $36,000 scholarship each. Nominations/ applications open in the fall.
18-month experience for Jewish high school sophomores and juniors with a strong interest in Jewish spirituality, concern for the environment, a background in Jewish learning and a commitment to personal growth.
Trains the next generation of Jewish philanthropists and leaders through learning about communal issues, vetting nonprofits, fundraising and awarding grants to nonprofits serving the community and beyond.
Jewish Youth for Community Action (JYCA)
1300 Grand Ave. Piedmont, CA 94610 (510) 570-9506
jycajustice.org info@jycajustice.org
Executive Director: Brady Gill
Deputy Director: Sylvie Rosen
Dedicated youth connect with other teens in community action, caring community and Jewish social justice values, to make a difference in their communities.
JFCS YouthFirst
Jewish Family and Children’s Services of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
Offers teens and pre-teens Jewish service learning and leadership skills including internships, training, volunteer opportunities, college and career preparation workshops and more.
Moving Traditions Teen Groups (215) 887-4511 movingtraditions.org
jpapiyan@movingtraditions.org
California Regional Director: Julia Papiyan
Transformative Jewish peer communities, provides fun and safe spaces for 8th- to 12th-graders of all genders as they self-identify: Rosh Hodesh for girls, Shevet for boys, and Tzelem for LGBTQ+, nonbinary, and gender-expansive teens.
NCSY NorCal
— Jewish Student Union (510) 930-8358
norcal.ncsy.org polanskyt@ncsy.org
Director: Tani Polansky
Programming for hundreds of local teens from diverse Jewish backgrounds; includes weekly learning, monthly social events, free summer programs and much more.
Provides URJ-affiliated teens and nonaffiliated teens with leadership training, social-action opportunities, social activities, Israel trips and weekend retreats on local, regional and North American levels.
Day Camps
Jewish day camps feature fun and relaxation, along with traditional camp favorites: swimming, hiking, archery, arts and crafts, drama and sports. Some also incorporate Jewish nature-based teachings, and many include Jewish content: challah baking and Shabbat cooking, Jewish music, crafts and Israeli dancing as well as an emphasis on Jewish values. Many include overnights, Shabbat celebrations and field trips. Kids come away with a well-rounded experience, which will serve them well as they mature.
East Bay
Camp @ JCC East Bay
JCC East Bay 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 848-0237
jcceastbay.org
aaron.atlas@jcceastbay.org
CPO: Aaron Atlas
Inclusive Jewish day camp for kids grades K-5 emphasizing self-discovery, experiential learning and fun. Swimming, sports, arts and crafts, nature and friendship.
full of adventure, creativity and fun. Fully immersive Hebrew language option available. Teen and pre-teen camps
expert coaches not only help
Camp Gan Israel of Contra Costa Mail to: 1671 Newell Ave. Walnut Creek, CA 94595 (925) 937-4101 jewishcontracosta.com/camp jli@jewishcontracosta.com Director: Chaya Berkowitz Sports, arts, swimming and weekly trips. Held at the Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek and offers a stimulating Jewish experience. Grades TK- 6th.
Camp Gan Israel of East Bay Chabad of the East Bay P.O. Box 5292 Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 859-8808 jewishkids.club office@jewishkids.club Directors: Rabbi Mendy Blank Miriam Ferris
Summer in the great outdoors at the Emerson Elementary School playground. All Jewish backgrounds/affiliations. Transportation from North Berkeley and Oakland. Ages 4-14. Fun summer imbued with Jewish values.
Camp Kee Tov
Congregation Beth El 1301 Oxford St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-2372 campkeetov.org campkeetov@bethelberkeley.org Director: Sam Cantrell Assistant Director: Rosie Rokeach
Community-oriented Jewish day camp set in Berkeley and surrounding parks, providing a variety of creative activities to enrich the lives of all campers. K-9th grade.
Camp Kefli
Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County 945 Risa Road Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 284-9191 temple-isaiah.org/community/camp-kefli rabbi.miller@temple-isaiah.org
Co-directors: Rabbi Alissa Miller Jacob Friedman
Jewish day camp for grades K-8 offered for a two-week session each summer. Blends Jewish learning with creative camp activities, including music, outings and Shabbat celebrations.
North Bay
Camp Chaverim
Congregation Beth Shalom
1455 Elm St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 253-7305 x2 cbsnapa.org
Education@cbsnapa.org
Education Director: Marah Peresechensky
Well-rounded camp in Jewish setting for children grades K-7. Swimming, arts, music, cooking, theme days and much more. CBS also hosts Camp Invention and this year has added a fourth week.
Traditional summer camps for pre-K-10th grade, plus specialty summer Legos® and theater camps. School break vacation camps for pre-K to 6th grade. For over 60 years, JCC camps have provided a safe, fun environment.
Peninsula/South Bay
Camp Gan Israel of Silicon Valley
Mail to: Chabad of Greater South Bay 3070 Louis Road Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 539-KIDS (5437) Fax: (650) 493-3425 campganisrael.info office@campganisrael.info Director: Rabbi Ber Rosenblat
Offering special Jewish experience since 1975. Programming for Jewish children in grades K-12. Limited financial aid available.
Camp Gan Israel of the North Peninsula
Chabad of North Peninsula P.O. Box 673
San Mateo, CA 94401 (650) 667-0556 mydaycamp.org admin@mydaycamp.org
Directors: Yale Spalter, Rivky Spalter
Comprehensive program that includes field trips, swimming, sports, crafts and more. Campers of all ages enjoy a wide range of exciting activities and field trips in a warm and energetic atmosphere.
Camp Keff*
Peninsula JCC
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 378-2704
Fax: (650) 378-2799 campkeff.org camps@pjcc.org
Assistant Youth Director, Camp: Yasmin Gomez
Friendship fueled by fun. Summer camps available for preschool, grades TK-5, middle school and high school. Seasonal camps also available.
Assistant Youth & Camp Director: Christine “Willis” Williams
Jewish day camp open to all kids ages 18 months to 16 years. Offers programming for summer camp, school year break camps, after -school enrichments and inclusion programming.
J-Camp*
Oshman Family JCC
3921 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8622 ofjcc-jcamp.com youth@paloaltojcc.org
Camp Director: Phil Bassett
Day camp offering programming for incoming transitional kindergarten through 10th grade campers. Every session is a unique experience, full of fun and engaging programs.
San Francisco
Camp Gan Israel SF 834 28th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 637-7854 campganisraelsf.org info@campganisraelsf.org
Director: Taliah Langer
Programs for ages 5-13, with indoor and outdoor facilities, plus half a block from Golden Gate Park. Jewish-themed activities including sports, art, music, yoga, theater and much more.
JCCSF Summer Camp
3200 California St.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 276-1537 jccsf.org/program/summer-camp
camp@jccsf.org
Director of Family Life, Youth & Family: Sophia Rutkin
Camp Manager, Youth & Family: Mitch Sanchez
Summer Camp at the JCCSF is where kids shine bright. Offering a wide variety of unique camp options that will appeal to kids of all ages, abilities and aspirations.
Santa Cruz/Monterey Camp Kayetz
Temple Beth El/JCC
3055 Porter Gulch Road
Aptos, CA 95003 (831) 479-3444/ Fax: (831) 475-7246 tbeaptos.org info@tbeaptos.org
Director: Jess Mitchell
Four-week summer session. Swimming, arts and crafts, overnight camping and sports. Campers ages 6-12 and counselors-in-training from ages 13 to 15.
Overnight Camps
Taking advantage of Northern California’s amazing outdoor scenery, these overnight camps add Jewish activities to the mix. In addition to traditional camp activities like swimming, hiking and arts and crafts, some camps offer specialty programs, such as ocean exploration, performing arts and specialized sports instruction. Jewish content may encompass Shabbat observance and cooking, music, crafts and Israeli dancing. Incorporating Jewish values into their offerings, camps teach the concepts of repairing the world and honoring nature. Kids also make lifelong friends, and they learn how to navigate without the distractions of technology.
Camp Be’chol Lashon
Mail to: 3245 Geary Blvd.
Suite 91478
San Francisco, CA 94159 (415) 730-2079
globaljews.org/camp camp@globaljews.org
Founder: Diane Tobin
Director: Sarah Weinberg
Multicultural overnight summer camp celebrating the diversity of Jewish life. Campers learn about the history and culture of Jewish communities around the world, make lifelong friends and have tons of fun.
Camp Ramah in Northern California Winter Office
969-G Edgewater Blvd. Suite 804
Foster City, CA 94404 (415) 688-4572
ramahnorcal.org
info@ramahnorcal.org
Camp Director: Geoffrey Menkowitz
Innovative Jewish summer camp along the shores of Monterey Bay. Overnight camp experience combines traditional and specialty programming in ocean exploration, performing arts and adventure sports.
Camp Tawonga Office
131 Steuart St., Suite 460 San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-2267
tawonga.org info@tawonga.org
Camp Director: Aaron Mandel
Independent residential Jewish summer camp on the Tuolumne River near Yosemite National Park. Offers 1-3 week summer camp sessions and adventure quests, plus teen programs, weekend family camps and adult retreats. Generous financial assistance available.
Eden Village West
Year-Round Office
7345 Richthofen Place
Denver, CO 80220 (510) 560-5610/ Fax: (510) 560-5650
edenvillagewest.org welcome@edenvillagewest.org
Executive Camp Director: Brad Cohen
Assistant Director: Joe Schiff
Farm-to-table Jewish overnight summer camp in Sonoma County serving grades 2-11, features culinary arts, organic farming, wilderness skills, homestead crafts and tasty organic food.
Maccabi Sports Camp*
Summer location
California State University East Bay Hayward, CA 94542 (415) 997-8844
maccabisportscamp.org info@maccabisportscamp.org
Founder/Senior Director: Josh Steinharter Jewish sports camp for grades 3-11, combines high-level specialized sports instruction for baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis and volleyball with the fun, friendship, community and values of a Jewish overnight camp.
URJ Camp Newman
4088 Porter Creek Rd. Santa Rosa, CA 94504 (415) 392-7080 x 3501
Registrar: Kim Press Camp Director: Rabbi Allie Fischman
Overnight summer camp in Santa Rosa for grades 1-11, where youth are welcomed into an inclusive, joyfully Jewish community to form friendships, proud Jewish identities and develop confidence through sports, arts and adventure/nature experiences.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS CAMPUS LIFE RESOURCES LIBRARIES LEADERSHIP
8 |
College & Adult Education
COMMUNITY STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Adult Education & Community Resources
The Bay Area offers multiple opportunities for adults to study Judaism. In addition to the resources listed below, most JCCs and congregations offer adult education classes. See Chaper 4 Religious Life category and JCC listings under Chapter 5 Agencies & Organizations for more information. In addition, resources abound for educators and professional development.
Hebrew San Francisco: Ulpan University of San Francisco Swig Program in Jewish Studies and Social Justice 2130 Fulton St. Kalmanovitz Hall, Room 152 San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 422-6601
Assistant Director of the Swig Program in Jewish Studies and Social Justice: Oren Kroll-Zeldin Program Assistant: Victoria Farlow 2024 is the 25th consecutive summer of the three-week intensive Hebrew language program on the campus of University of San Francisco. Emphasis is on conversation. Program offers beginning, intermediate and advanced classes.
JCC East Bay Adult Classes
1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-0237/ Fax: (510) 848-0170 jcceastbay.org sarahwr@jcceastbay.org
Director of Community Engagement: Sarah Wolfman-Robichaud
Partners with a number of organizations and Bay Area JCCs to bring programs and educational opportunities to the community.
Addison-Penzak JCC Adult Education 14855 Oka Road, Suite 201 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 357-7492
Ask questions, find meaning, learn and join in community with others to investigate Jewish life, thought and experience. Classes include the study of Jewish texts, traditions and philosophy.
Jewish LearningWorks
Professional Development for Jewish Educators and Leaders 1770 Post St. Suite 145 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 751-6983
jewishlearning.works info@jewishlearning.works
CEO: Dana Sheanin
Director of Educational Leadership: Jenni Mangel
Provides Jewish educators and other community professionals with responsive professional development as well as opportunities to build their leadership skills through training, cohort learning, mentoring and professional coaching.
Jewish Study Network (JNS) 3505 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 493-5764
Fax: (650) 493-5765 jsn.info info@jsn.info
Executive Director: Rabbi Joey Felsen
Resource pool of Jewish educators for the Bay Area. Jewish concepts explored in an engaging and stimulating environment. Ongoing classes and short courses available.
Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
1 Post St., Floor 7 San Francisco, CA 94104
(415) 391-3600
Fax: (415) 391-3617 jvs.org info@jvs.org
CEO: Lisa Countryman-Quiroz
No-cost career training programs provide job seekers with in-demand qualifications and connections to land quality jobs in health care, tech and skilled trades.
New Lehrhaus
P.O. Box 7843
Berkeley, CA 94707 newlehrhaus.org info@newlehrhaus.org
Executive Director: Rachel Biale
Program Manager: Jim Mavrikios
Bay Area hub for adult Jewish learning brings students and teachers together in dialogue to explore Jewish sources, traditions and arts, sustaining and enriching the vibrant spirit of Jewish life and civilization.
Stimulating programs for mind, body and soul, from opera to art museums and trips. Educational and entertaining classes, workshops, activities, local excursions and trips to enrich life.
Peninsula JCC Adult Programs
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 378-2703 pjcc.org
Cultural Arts & Adult Director: Kimberly Gordon
Presents a variety of educational and social programs and events for adults. Offerings include games, lectures, discussions, art classes, day trips and more.
Leading center of Jewish thought and education serving Israel and North America. Mission is to strengthen Jewish peoplehood, identity and pluralism and ensure that Judaism is a compelling force for good in the 21st century.
The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute myjli.com
Offers Jewish study programs at sites throughout Northern California as well as on the internet. Associated with ChabadLubavitch.
Under One Tent (925) 322-0958 underonetent.org underonetent@ccjcc.org
Program Director: Riva Gambert
Presented by the Contra Costa JCC. Inclusive, vibrant partnership of synagogues, Jewish organizations and schools serving Contra Costa and Tri-Valley.
College resources and scholarships for Jewish students in easy-to-use website. Excellent tool for college students seeking a robust Jewish community and other resources for Jewish practice.
ACADEMIC
PROGRAMS
The region offers many programs in Jewish studies as well as a Hebrew immersion program, a medical-health college under Jewish auspices and other college classes.
East Bay
Graduate Theological Union
The Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies Office: 2452 Virginia St. Mail to: 2400 Ridge Road Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 649-2482
Fax: (510) 649-1730
gtu.edu/cjs cjs@gtu.edu
Director: Deena Aranoff, Ph.D.
Grants advanced degrees in Jewish studies and offers courses and academic programs for the Graduate Theological Union and Bay Area communities. Auditors are welcome.
Helen Diller Institute for Jewish Law and Israel Studies
UC Berkeley R239D, Law Building Berkeley, CA 94720 (510) 643-0501
hdi.berkeley.edu
berkeley_institute-law@berkeley.edu
Faculty Director: Kenneth A. Bamberger
Executive Director: Rebecca Golbert
Cross-campus institute draws dozens of faculty members from social sciences, humanities and professional schools, engaging faculty and students. Sponsors courses, lectures, conferences and experiential learning programs on campus and in Israel; hosts visiting Israeli professors.
Offers a Designated Emphasis for graduate students, a minor for undergraduates and lectures and programs for the broader community.
North Bay
Sonoma State University
Jewish Studies Program 1801 E. Cotati Ave. Green Music Center Rohnert Park, CA 94928 (707) 664-2468
sonoma.edu/jewishstudies wilsonb@sonoma.edu
Director: Dr. Brian S. Wilson
Interdisciplinary minor-granting curriculum that allows students to take courses in Jewish history, culture and society and Hebrew.
Touro University California
Mare Island Campus 1310 Club Drive
Vallejo, CA 94592 (707) 638-5200 tu.edu
info@tu.edu
Director, Campus Life: Rabbi Elchonon Tenenbaum
Educates professionals in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, public health, nursing, physician assistant studies, health sciences, education and sonography. Committed to social justice, intellectual pursuit and service to humanity. Provides a glatt kosher kitchen and Jewish programming.
Peninsula/South Bay
San Jose State University
Jewish Studies Program
History Department
Dudley Moorhead Hall, 141 1 Washington Square San Jose, CA 95192 (408) 924-5500
Fax: (408) 924-5531
sjsu.edu/jwss victoria.harrison@sjsu.edu
Coordinator: Vicki Harrison
Interdisciplinary minor program facilitates exploring the multicultural diversity and complexity of Jewish and Israeli culture; includes history, literature, religion, politics, Hebrew and art.
Stanford University
Taube Center for Jewish Studies
450 Jane Stanford Way Building 360 Stanford, CA 94305
jewishstudies.stanford.edu sjhammer@stanford.edu
Faculty Director: Charlotte Elisheva Fonrobert
Associate Director: Shaina Hammerman
Interdisciplinary program studying all facets of Jewish culture. Courses across the expanse of Jewish history, literature, language, religion, politics, education and science. Access 128 years of SF Bay Area
San Francisco
San Francisco State University Department of Jewish Studies* HUM 415
1600 Holloway Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 338-6075/ Fax: (415) 338-6080
jewish.sfsu.edu
jewish@sfsu.edu
Chair: Professor Kitty Millet
Offers a B.A. and a minor in Modern Jewish Studies as well as adult learning through SFSU’s ElderCollege.
University of San Francisco
Swig Program in Jewish Studies and Social Justice
2130 Fulton St., KAL 152 San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 422-6601
Founded in 1997, this is the country’s first and only academic program formally linking Jewish studies and social justice.
Santa Cruz/Monterey
UC Santa Cruz Jewish Studies Program
History Department, 1156 High St. Santa Cruz, CA 95064 (831) 459-3701
jewishstudies.ucsc.edu
jwst@ucsc.edu
Director, Center for Jewish Studies: Nathaniel Deutsch
Undergraduate Program Coordinator: Alma Rachel Heckman
Introduces students to the study of Jewish culture. Helps students pursue graduate work in the field, attend rabbinical schools or work in the Jewish community.
Other Regions
CSU Chico Modern Jewish and Israel Studies
Arts and Humanities Building 400 W. First St., Room 377 Chico, CA 95929 (530) 898-5661
csuchico.edu/mjis corh@csuchico.edu
Adviser: Professor Jed Wyrick
Offers an undergraduate minor focusing on Judaism and Jewish history with instruction in modern Hebrew.
UC Davis Jewish Studies Program
1 Shields Ave. Davis, CA 95616 (530) 754-7007
jewishstudies.ucdavis.edu
jst@ucdavis.edu
Director: Eva Mroczek
Program Assistant: Benjamin Fisher
Offers a minor in Jewish studies. Provides a diverse set of courses focused on Jewish histories, cultures, communities and literatures well as Middle Eastern politics and courses in Judaism.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
East Bay
Rohr Chabad Jewish Student Center at Berkeley 2516 Warring St. Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 730-2747
jewishucb.com contact@jewishucb.com
Co-directors: Rabbi Gil Yosef Leeds
Mrs. Bracha Sara Leeds
Supports Jewish life on campus: Shabbat, holiday services and meals; weekly classes, special events and Shabbatons; kosher meals, Mezuzah Bank, Jewish library and free trips to Israel.
San Francisco State University
Department of Jewish Stu
The Bay Area's only Department of Jewish Studies
Devoted to the study of the history, culture, religion, politics, and literature of the Jewish people
Cultural, spiritual, intellectual, religious, educational and social programs for Jewish students at UC Berkeley and Berkeley City College.
North Bay
Hillel of Sonoma County 377 Baile de Ciervos
Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (707) 664-2468
sonomahillel.org
hillelsonomacounty@gmail.com
Faculty Adviser: Dr. Brian S. Wilson
Encourages Sonoma State University and Santa Rosa Junior College students to explore Judaism and Jewish identity through creative social, religious, educational and community service activities.
Peninsula/ South Bay
Chabad SJSU 176 Rhodes Court San Jose, CA 95126 (347) 971-6668
Offers a wide range of programs including weekly social events on and off campus, Shabbat services and holiday celebrations. Provides kosher food and educational resources for students looking to explore and expand their Jewish identities.
Hillel at Stanford
The Harold and Libby Ziff Center for Jewish Life
565 Mayfield Ave. Stanford, CA 94309 (650) 723-1602 stanfordhillel.org hillelatstanford@stanford.edu
Executive Director: Rabbi Jessica Kirschner Director of Operations: Leah Newman
Offers educational, religious, social action, cultural and Israel-related programs to Stanford students and local young adults. Some programs open to the community at large.
Hillel of Silicon Valley*
44 S. 11th St. San Jose, CA 95112 (408) 286-6669 hillelsv.org director@hillelsv.org
Executive Director: Sarita Bronstein
Strengthens connections to Judaism/Israel at San Jose State and Santa Clara universities, as well as De Anza, West Valley and Foothill colleges, through social, cultural, educational and tzedek (social action) programs.
Rohr Chabad House at Stanford 1289 College Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 494-3274 chabadstanford.org info@chabadstanford.org
Executive Director: Rabbi Dov Greenberg
Program Director: Rachel Greenberg
Dedicated to sharing the warmth, wisdom and depth of Judaism with the Stanford community through classes, lectures, social action projects, Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations.
San Francisco
Chabad Student Center of San Francisco 1523 25th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 572-6281
jewishsunset.com
sfsjew@gmail.com
Rabbi Yisroel Zaetz, Mrs. Hadas Zaetz
Place where Jewish students can feel comfortable expressing themselves while finding meaning and inspiration in Jewish traditions.
San Francisco Hillel
33 Banbury Drive
San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 333-4922
sfhillel.org
admin@sfhillel.org
Executive Director: Roger Feigelson
Supports all Jewish college students in San Francisco and fortifies the future of the Jewish people. Helps them explore their Jewish identity, build Jewish community and develop into future Jewish leaders.
Santa Cruz/Monterey
Santa Cruz Hillel Foundation
801 High St. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 426-3332
santacruzhillel.org info@santacruzhillel.org
Executive Director: Becka Ross
Home away from home for Jewish students at UC Santa Cruz, Cabrillo College and CSU Monterey Bay. Provides Jewish educational, cultural, and social programs for all students.
Other
Regions
Chabad at UC Davis 434 E St. Davis, CA 95616 (310) 740-6964
Offers a wide range of programs including weekly social events on and off campus, Shabbat services and holiday celebrations. Provides kosher food and educational resources for students looking to explore and expand their Jewish identities.
Chico Hillel
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
101 Salem St. Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 (530) 879-0870 chicohillel.org chicohillel@gmail.com
Executive Director: Kristy Collins
Creates Jewish community together through an on-campus social club: Jewish holiday celebrations, recreational activities, wellness and leadership.
Hillel at Davis and Sacramento
328 A St. Davis, CA 95616 (530) 756-3708 hillelhouse.org office@hillelhouse.org
Executive Director: Rachel Darling
Students from UC Davis and Sacramento
State explore Jewish life, celebrate vibrant holidays, find community, savor delicious kosher meals and embark on trips together. Join us for Shabbat every Friday at 6 p.m.
Rohr Chabad Student Center
UC Santa Cruz 1142 King St. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 471-9123 jewcsc.com
Director: Rabbi Shlomie Chein
Programs and Operations: Devorah Leah Chein
Home for Jewish celebration and a center for Jewish education serving the UC Santa Cruz community.
Libraries
Most synagogues and Jewish schools maintain reference and circulating libraries of varying sizes. For lending policies, contact individual institutions.
Genealogy Library –Sutro Library
San Francisco State University 1630 Holloway Ave. San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 469-6100 library.ca.gov/sutro/genealogy sutro@library.ca.gov
Features local U.S. history, the notable rare book and manuscript collections formed by Adolph Sutro and the largest genealogy collection west of Salt Lake City.
Assistant Director of Library Services: Caryl Woulfe
Books, periodicals and electronic resources in biblical studies; Judaism, Christianity and other religions; history, art and literature; ethics and philosophy. Resources in Hebrew, English and other languages.
Jewish Community Library 1835 Ellis St.
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 567-3327
jewishcommunitylibrary.org
info@jewishcommunitylibrary.org
Director: Howard Freedman
Reader Services Librarian: Leah Strauss
Home to Northern California’s largest publicly circulating collection of Jewish books, films and music. Offers reference assistance, services to book clubs, diverse cultural programming (in-person and online) and a Palo Alto JCC satellite branch.
JIY Celebrations
JCCSF
3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 276-1514
Jew It Yourself! This service provides the community with free access to Torah scrolls and chuppahs needed to bring communal Jewish celebrations and ceremonies to life.
Tauber Holocaust Library and Archives
JFCS Holocaust Center
2245 Post St. P.O. Box 159004 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-3717
jfcsholocaustcenter.org holocaustcenter@jfcs.org
Houses over 13,000 volumes, an archive of 2,000 recorded oral histories and many rare artifacts, memorabilia and images documenting the Holocaust. Currently closed to the public.
Leadership Development
Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
201 California St., Suite 325 San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 981-3500
sanfrancisco.adl.org
central-pacific@adl.org
Regional Director: Marc Levine
Anti-bias and diversity training to create and sustain inclusive schools and communities; programs and resources for Holocaust education and for confronting antisemitism and anti-Israel bias.
J Leaders
15559 Union Ave.
Suite 630 Los Gatos, CA 95032 jleaders.org team@jleaders.org
CEO: Peter Hoffman
Transformative leadership program designed to empower Jewish young adults with the skills, knowledge and network necessary to create positive change in their organizations, the Jewish community and the world.
Benyamin Cohen posts regularly about Einstein on social media. (Photo/Shoshi Benstein)
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS SUPPORT
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Making Connections
JCF Young Adults
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund 121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 369-2873
Leadership development and building community and a culture of philanthropy for ages 21 to 40-something. Social, educational, cultural, volunteer and networking programs, including Israel trips and conferences.
Jewish High Tech Community (JHTC ) (408) 888-2148
jhtc.org
tanya@jhtc.org
President: Tanya Okmyansky
Strives to improve the quality of life in Silicon Valley and the South Bay for Jewish people working in and around technology by educating, informing and connecting.
J. the Jewish News of Northern California* P.O. Box 192604 San Francisco, CA 94119 (415) 263-7200
jweekly.com info@jweekly.com
Publisher: Steven Gellman
Editor-in-Chief: Chanan Tigay
Managing Editor: Sue Barnett
Offers biweekly print edition and e-newsletters, as well as a robust news website and growing social media presence. Local, national and international news, features and opinion pieces focusing on Bay Area Jewish life.
Mitzvah Milers Cycling Team events.nationalmssociety.org cozyconcerts@gmail.com
Team Captain: Dan Siegel
Predominantly Jewish Bay Area cycling team participates in the Waves to Wine M.S. Bike Ride each September, raising funds to fight multiple sclerosis.
Moishe House
441 Saxony Road, Barn 2 Encinitas, CA 92024 (855) 598-5509 moishehouse.org
Northwest Community Manager: Jake House
Provides meaningful Jewish experiences for young adults (ages 22-32) as they create vibrant home-based Jewish communities for themselves and their peers. The Bay Area network includes 10 peer-led communities.
The Omer Project P.O. Box 22094 San Francisco, CA 94122
theomerproject.com
wecount@theomerproject.com
Maggid: Raja Anderson
Brings people together with the message: We all count. Gathers on the Sunset and Richmond districts’ numbered avenues; participants count the Omer corresponding to the appropriate Omer day.
YeaShOre Community P.O. Box 22094 San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 731-4680 yeashore.net yeashore@yahoo.com
Maggid: Raja Anderson
Ba’al Bonfire: Judah Alvarado
Sponsors bonfires spring to fall. Havdalah followed by singing, stories, eating, shmoozing at bonfires. Winter activities: Indoor sea chanteys, improv shows, snow/hot springs trips. Online Zoomfires for Covid safety.
Young Adult Community at Congregation Emanu-El 2 Lake St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 751-2535 emanuelsf.org/young-adults soverton@emanuelsf.org
Engagement Associate: Sarah Squarsino Overton
Offers opportunities to engage in Jewish life with peers through social activities, cultural experiences, lively worship services, creative education programs and holiday celebrations.
INDEPENDENT LIVING TRANSPORTATION AGING COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCES RESIDENTIAL CARE CULTURAL SOCIAL 10 | Seniors
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
San Francisco 100 Pine St. Suite 1250 San Francisco, CA 94111
Burlingame 1350 Old Bayshore Highway, Suite 520 Burlingame, CA 94010
Award-winning agency provides customized, in-home care. Helps older adults challenged with either short-term or chronic health conditions to improve their well-being and safely age in place.
The Rick and Doris Davis Center for Aging/Caregiver Services
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley P. O. Box 320490 Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 806-6231
Provides comprehensive services including care management and home care services to support older adults and caregivers so they can live in their own homes safely with quality and dignity for as long as possible.
In-home health care, includes nursing, tailored physical therapy programs and home health aides. Medical assistance, rehabilitation, support for end-of-life care, all at client’s home.
Homewatch CareGivers of Oakland*
3820 Broadway Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 835-9362 hwcg.com/oakland oakland@hwcg.com
Contacts: Benjamin Bloom, Leah Bloom
Provides in-home care services: dementia care, after-hospital care, chronic conditions care, transportation, 1- to 24-hour shifts, family caregiver support and companion care. Gives families peace of mind while preserving the loved one’s dignity.
Institute on Aging*
3575 Geary Blvd.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 750-4111 ioaging.org connect@ioaging.org
President & CEO: J. Thomas Briody, M.H.Sc. Nonprofit with 40 years’ experience helps older adults and adults with disabilities age in the place they call home. Live independently by accessing 30+ programs including Corio Homecare and Companioa comprehensive dementia support.
Jewish Family & Community Services
East Bay
2151 Salvio St. Suite 350 Concord, CA 94520 (925) 927-2000 jfcs-eastbay.org info@jfcs-eastbay.org
Personalized care for older adults and caregiving families. Home care, consultations with geriatric specialists, support groups, educational events, senior information line and counseling. Specialized services for Holocaust survivors.
Age Extraordinarily
Aging can be extraordinary, if you have the right support. From expert dementia care, to home care and personal assistants, Seniors At Home provides personalized support to help you age with dignity and independence.
To learn more, call 415-449-3700 or visit SeniorsAtHome.org/Extraordinary.
Montclair Elder Services*
25 Glen Eden Ave. Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 424-9722
montclairelderservices.com
margot@montclairelderservices.com
Margot Nijsure
Senior-services provider offers a full range of personalized care to geriatric adults in the East Bay. Services are completely customizable.
Seniors At Home*
Jewish Family and Children’s Services 2150 Post St. P.O. Box 159004 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-3700 seniorsathome.org info@seniorsathome.org
Comprehensive, award-winning senior services including home care, care management, counseling, dementia care, fiduciary services, health-care advocacy and caregiver support.
Care Management/Healthcare Advocacy
Professional care managers help navigate the healthcare system, coordinate all aspects of care, solve problems and advocate on a senior’s behalf by communicating with physicians, hospitals and family.
Center For Dementia Care
Dementia experts provide practical and emotional support to families and caregivers of those with dementia-related conditions, as well as personalized care to those affected.
Fiduciary Services
Licensed professionals help older adults manage money safely: bill paying, deposits, medical claims and more. Available in the East Bay, Peninsula, San Francisco, Marin and Sonoma counties.
Home Care
Compassionate, highly trained caregivers assist individuals of all ages recovering from an illness or hospitalization; help older adults live safely and independently at home. Services are personalized to individual needs.
Kosher Meals on Wheels
For seniors in San Francisco in need and who have a kosher preference, service offers hot, nutritious kosher lunch delivered up to five times per week.
Suse Moyal Center for Older Adult Services – Alameda County JFCS East Bay
2484 Shattuck Ave. Suite 210 Berkeley, CA 94704 (925) 927-2000 jfcs-eastbay.org nfo@jfcs-eastbay.org
Personalized care for older adults and caregiving families. Helps older adults stay healthy, connected and independent, including home care, geriatric consultations and support groups.
Cultural & Social
B’nai Israel of Rossmoor Senior Adult Congregation
Mail to: P.O. Box 2070 Walnut Creek, CA 94595 (408) 398-7898
mike.mharris@gmail.com
Leadership Council: Mike Harris Judi Appleman
Congregation offers Friday night Shabbat and High Holy Day services for seniors. Please contact us for times and locations.
Life of Comfort and Security, Guided by Jewish Values
The Reutlinger Community has been a trusted part of the East Bay community for over seven decades, providing a full spectrum of senior care services to meet your unique needs.
Schedule a personalized tour today! 925-594-6469 • thereutlinger.org
Camino Tassajara, Danville, CA 94506
Personal Attention is my Intention
Rossmoor — Where you will be fully independent but never alone! Call Libbie to arrange a private tour of this premier over-55 Independent living community in Walnut Creek.
LIBBIE NORTON
Senior Residential Specialist
972-841-8655
RossmoorRealty.com/Libbie-Norton
DRE 02078185
l
r
Community Conversations and Older Adult Programs
Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8616
With uplifting programs, both in person and online, provides multiple opportunities to socialize while enjoying the rich culture of the Bay Area. Activities include holiday lunches, senior excursions, classes, concerts and special events.
Friendship Circle Seniors 55+
JCC Sonoma County 3421 Bonita Vista Lane Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 528-1182 jccsoco.org/friendshipcircle55/ friendship-circle/ friendshipcircle@jccsoco.org
Program Director: Sandy Andresen
Seniors 55+ enjoy cultural events, lectures, meetings and holiday outreach. Also information/referral. Monthly newsletter.
JCCSF Healthy Aging
3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1262 jccsf.org/program/healthy-aging sschulz@jccsf.org
Director of Lifelong Learning: Shiva Schulz Free and low-cost programs provide learning and exploration through lectures, classes, clubs, movies, wellness programs and holiday celebrations.
Residential
JEWISH
Frank Residences
San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living One Avalon Ave. San Francisco, CA 94112 (415) 562-2020 frankresidences.org frinfo@frankresidences.org
Director of Sales and Outreach: Al Oliveros
Offers a luxurious senior lifestyle with assisted living and memory care services. Tailored amenities complement innovative wellness, fitness and education programs, ensuring an exceptional experience.
Menorah Park
3365 Sacramento St. San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 929-7912
Fax: (415) 929-7649
menorahpark.wordpress.com joan@menorahpark.com
Executive Director: Joan Levison
Operations Manager: Sima Kaminsky
Provides Section 8 HUD-subsidized affordable housing for very low-income seniors. Utilizes a waiting list lottery to fill the 149 apartments. Waiting list is expected to reopen in 2026.
Moldaw Residences*
899 E. Charleston Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 433-3600
Fax: (650) 230-4886
moldaw.org
Executive Director: Mark Baddass
Independent living with a life-care plan including assisted living and memory care on a vibrant multigenerational campus. Embrace an exceptional retirement lifestyle.
Rhoda Goldman Plaza*
2180 Post St.
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 345-5072/ Fax: (415) 345-5061 rgplaza.org allisonr@rgplaza.org Director of Sales and Marketing:
Allison Rodman
Interim Administrator: Miki Lamm
Located in Lower Pacific Heights, vibrant nonprofit assisted living and memory care community. Unprecedented staff-to-resident ratio, longevity of staff and management. Light-filled apartments, robust programming and lifelong learning/lectures.
San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living*
302 Silver Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94112
(415) 334.2500
Fax: 415.334.4375
sfcjl.org
admissions@sfcjl.org
Has enriched the lives of older adults for more than 150 years. Provides continuum of care and social services enabling seniors to live their fullest lives. The Jewish Home, Frank Residences and Byer Square serve over 2,500 people annually.
The Reutlinger Community*
4000 Camino Tassajara Danville, CA 94506 (925) 648-2800
Fax: (925) 648-2801
rcjl.org
jmammad@rcjl.org
Executive Director: Julie Mammad Rabbi Zari Weiss
Interactive senior living community offers independent living, assisted living, skilled
nursing, rehabilitation and memory care, while providing high-quality health care and social support services in a life-enhancing environment with a commitment to Jewish values.
OTHER COMMUNITIES
Libbie Norton+ Rossmoor Realty 1641 Tice Valley Road Walnut Creek, CA 94595 (972) 841-8655
Call Libbie to arrange a private tour of Rossmoor, a premier independent living community (55 and older) in Walnut Creek where you will experience full independence but never be alone. Personal attention is her intention. DRE# 02078185.
The Magnolia of Millbrae* 201 Chadbourne Ave. Millbrae, CA 94030 (650) 697-7000
Independent and assisted senior living. Luxury amenities and dining, transportation, month-to-month rental, 24-hour security/emergency response, pool, spa and fitness center.
(From left) Ken Sims, Wendy Sims, Susan Sims and Steve Sims are a pickleball family foursome at the University Club in Palo Alto, July 30, 2023. (Photo/Aaron Levy-Wolins)
FINANCING CONSULATES FUNDRAISING CONNECTIONS INFORMATION ADVOCACY
LOCAL ISRAELI SERVICES JOURNEYS 11 | Israel Connections
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Consulate
Consulate General of Israel
Pacific Northwest – San Francisco 456 Montgomery St., Suite 2100 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 844-7510
Consul General: Marco Sermoneta Deputy Consul General: Matan Zamir
Official government office in Northern California. Provides passports, visas and consular services. Resource for information; responsible for coordinating educational, political, cultural and economic activities.
Finance
Israel Bonds/ Development Corporation for Israel
1999 Harrison St., Suite 1800 Oakland, CA 94612 (415) 548-6294 israelbonds.com sanfrancisco@israelbonds.com
Uses investment dollars to finance key infrastructure projects critical to Israel. Bonds can be purchased for IRA accounts, trusts and gifts. Member FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority).
The California-Israel Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 27625 317 West Portal St. San Francisco, CA 94127 ci-cc.org info@ci-cc.org
Executive Director: Sharon Vanek
Not-for-profit, industry-supported organization dedicated to strengthening business, investment, technology and trade relations between California and Israel.
Fundraising
American Committee for Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem Northwest Region 2625 Middlefield Road, Box 581 Palo Alto, CA 94306 (310) 229-0915 acsz.org westernregion@acsz.org
Director: Hope Zeitz
Supports 1,000-bed hospital established in 1902 in central Jerusalem. World-renowned for Jewish genetics, oncology, cardiac care, birthing, infant care and adherence to Jewish medical ethics.
American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science Bay Area Office
1410 Franklin St., Unit 120 San Francisco, CA 94109 (415) 981-4002
Fax: (415) 981-4007
weizmann-usa.org bayarea@acwis.org
Executive Director: Andy Weissman Philanthropic Giving: Debra Weinstein
Founded in 1944, the committee develops philanthropic support for the Institute in Israel and advances its mission of science for the benefit of humanity.
American Friends of Tel Aviv University (415) 246-7411 aftau.org
csteinberg@aftau.org
VP Northern California and Pacific Northwest: Carolyn Bell Steinberg
Tel Aviv University (TAU) is a globally ranked top research institution and Israel’s largest university. It is a center of excellence for research and innovation. AFTAU supports TAU and builds bridges with Israel.
American Friends of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Pacific Northwest Region 548 Market St., Suite 90944 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 299-8691
afhu.org
pacificnorthwest@afhu.org
Executive Director: Jeremy Benjamin
National not-for-profit organization supports Israel’s renowned center of higher education and research.
American Technion Society
Silicon Valley/San Francisco P.O. Box 689 Mill Valley, CA 94942 (415) 450-8722 ats.org
technion.norcal@ats.org
Board Chair, Bay Area: David Kaufman
Professional Staff: Victoria Buder
Provides critical support to Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, a global innovation powerhouse. Its research, education and innovations advance critical breakthroughs for Israel and the world.
Americans for Ben-Gurion University
Bay Area Chapter (510) 708-0953
americansforbgu.org
juditha@a4bgu.org
Director of Development: Judith Alterman
Raises funds and awareness for worldclass institution known for leadership in sustainability, desert agriculture, water management, bio- and nanotechnologies, cybersecurity, global medicine and Hebrew literature.
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (415) 547-8362
Non-political, non-military organization provides for the well-being of the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces. Supports educational, financial, well-being and cultural initiatives, in accordance with IDF priorities.
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
121 Steuart St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 777-0411
jewishfed.org
info@sfjcf.org
Mobilizes innovation, collaboration and investment to shape diverse, dynamic Bay Area Jewish communities where people find a meaningful connection to Judaism and each other. Working to better lives locally, in Israel and around the world.
Jewish National Fund – USA
Northern California Regional Office (415) 677-9600
jnf.org
mkariv@jnf.org
Director, Northern California: Martha Kariv
President, Northern California: Steven Wasserman
Invests in building communities in Israel’s Negev and Galilee regions, collaborating with diverse environmental and humanitarian partners to support Israel’s 21st-century pioneers.
Information & Advocacy
American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)*
Pacific Northwest Region
P.O. Box 207
San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 989-4140
aipac.org
pacificnorthwest@aipac.org
Western States Director: Wayne Klitofsky
Bipartisan organization of pro-Israel Americans committed to strengthening and expanding the U.S.-Israel relationship in ways that enhance the security of both countries.
BlueStar
P. O. Box 193181
San Francisco, CA 94119 (415) 543-6300
Fax: (415) 777-8525
bluestarpr.com
bluestarpr@bluestarpr.com
Mission is to humanize perceptions about Israel, using visual media to build support for Israel’s case as a Jewish democracy within secure, recognized borders. Provides resources to inform campus and community conversations on Israel.
Facts and Logic about the Middle East (FLAME)
Mail to: P.O. Box 3460 Berkeley, CA 94703
factsandlogic.org
jim@factsandlogic.org
President: Jim Sinkinson
Researches and publishes facts regarding developments in the Middle East and exposes false propaganda that might harm the interests of the U. S. and its allies in that area of the world.
ISRAEL21c
44 Montgomery St., Suite 3700 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 318-8964 israel21c.org info@israel21c.org
Executive Director: Jason Harris
Nonprofit organization that shares good news from Israel to educate people about the positive impact Israelis have on the world.
J Street jstreet.org sfbayarea@jstreet.org
Northwest Regional Director: Rabbi Andrew Straus
Works for a peaceful resolution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, ensuring the survival of Israel as a democratic homeland for the Jewish people.
New
Israel Fund
235 Montgomery St., Suite 460 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 543-5055/ Fax: (415) 543-6066 nif.org
sf@nif.org
Deputy Vice President, Bay Area: Orli Bein
Leading organization advancing and defending democracy in Israel. Widely credited with building Israeli progressive civil society, the organization has provided over $300 million to more than 900 organizations since its inception in 1979.
Sonoma County Israel Committee (707) 537-2211 israelupdate.info elicohen@Israelupdate.info
Chair: Dr. Eli Cohen
Focal point in Sonoma County on issues related to Israel: the nation, the people, the land. Nonpolitical, organizes Israel’s Independence Day celebrations and more.
StandWithUs
File 2215
1801 W. Olympic Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91199-2215 (310) 836-6140
International, nonpartisan education organization that educates about Israel and fights antisemitism. Empowers students and communities with leadership training and educational programs. Informs through social media, print and digital materials.
A Wider Bridge
2912 Diamond St., Suite 348
San Francisco, CA 94131 (866) 288-5774
awiderbridge.org info@awiderbridge.org
Executive Director: Ethan Felson
Pro-Israel organization works to create opportunities for LGBTQ people in the U. S., along with friends and allies, to engage and connect with Israel.
The Oshman Family JCC is proud to be a part of the Koret Initiative on Jewish Peoplehood.
Local Israeli Services
Chabad Israeli - Silicon Valley 10390 Heney Creek Place
Cupertino, CA 95014 (650) 804-5019 chabadisraeli.org
Co-directors: Rabbi Menachem Landa Sonia Landa
Home away from home for the Israeli community throughout the year. Torah classes, kids, family and High Holy Day programs and services.
Israeli Cultural Connection (ICC)*
Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8790
paloaltojcc.org/icc icc@paloaltojcc.org
Senior Director: Ronit Jacobs
Vibrant hub for the local Israeli community with lectures by well-known speakers and performers, Israeli movie nights, social gatherings, holiday events, children’s activities, Beged Kefet Hebrew Language School and more.
Israeli House
Consulate General of Israel 456 Montgomery St., Suite 2100 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 844-7505
Fax: (415) 844-7555
embassies.gov.il/san-francisco/ ConsularServices/Pages/ReturningResidents.aspx israeli-house@sf.mfa.gov.il Director: Adi Elmalach
Provides the Israeli community with cultural events and holiday celebrations in Hebrew, in addition to guiding Israelis who wish to return to their homeland.
Grants to help fund teen and young adult travel to Israel. Available to applicants within the Federation’s service area.
Tiyul Jewish Journeys
1442A Walnut St., Suite 475 Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 847-4519
tiyuljewishjourneys.com
ariel@tiyuljewishjourneys.com
Founder and CEO: Ariel Goldstein
Specializes in educational tours and Jewish travel experiences throughout the world, including Shabbat dinners, visiting synagogues and Jewish neighborhoods. Includes traditional sites along with exploring local cultures.
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
Independent film festival serving the Contra Costa and Tri-Valley regions with annual festival and year-round programming.
Jewish Film Institute 145 9th St., Suite 200 San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 621-0556/ Fax: (415) 621-0568 jfi.org jewishfilm@jfi.org
Executive Director: Lexi Leban
Presents year-round events, screenings and the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival — the largest and oldest festival of its kind and leader in the curation of Jewish film and media. Offers support to filmmakers.
Sacramento Jewish Film Festival c/o Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region 2130 21st St.
Sacramento, CA 95818 (916) 486-0906
sacjewishfilmfest.org jbirch@jewishsac.org Director: Teven Laxer Programs and Special Projects Coordinator: Jessica Braverman Birch
Annual film festival presenting films that inspire, require thought and provide entertainment. Held in March, the festival also includes live entertainment, receptions and discussions.
Silicon Valley
Jewish Film Festival
P.O. Box 2190 Cupertino, CA 95015 (408) 498-0904 svjff.org info@svjff.org
Executive Director: Tzvia Shelef
Annual series held in the fall features award-winning international films and documentaries on Israel, Jewish heritage, mystery and tradition. Films also presented during the rest of the year.
Sonoma County
Jewish Film Festival (707) 528-4222 jccsoco.org/filmprograms office@jccsoco.org
For over 27 years, this annual festival has brought new award-winning films that celebrate Jewish life around the world to Sonoma County.
Read J. and stay informed!
From our days as a local bulletin to our rich digital presence today, J. offers reliable reporting, intelligent analysis, and Jewish voices you can trust. Nowhere else can you find Bay Area journalism through a Jewish lens.
■ Sign up for our free e-newsletters: jweekly.com/newsletter
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Publications
J. The Jewish News of Northern California* P.O. Box 192604 San Francisco CA 94119 (415) 263-7200 info@jweekly.com jweekly.com
CEO: Jo Ellen Green Kaiser
Publisher: Steven Gellman
Editor-in-Chief: Chanan Tigay
Covering Bay Area Jewish life since 1895, J. offers a biweekly print edition and several e-newsletters as well as a robust news website and social media presence. Find local news, features and opinion pieces focusing on Bay Area Jewish life. Print subscriptions are $46.50/year at jweekly.com/subscriptions Online newsletters are free: sign up at jweekly.com/newsletter.
TV
Mosaic CBS-5 (415) 254-1147 jewishtvsf@gmail.com
Producer: Suzan Berns
Interview show airing Sundays at 5:30 a.m. on KPIX-5, Channel 5. Jews, Catholics and Protestants rotate weeks. Jewish segment host Rabbi Eric Weiss focuses on culture and religious and community issues.
THE JEWISH NEWS of Northern California
YIDDISH CULTURE GENEALOGY HISTORY
JUDAICA GIFTS BOOKS MUSEUMS MUSIC GALLERIES CHORUSES
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Folk Dancing
Café Shalom of San Francisco Congregation Am Tikvah 625 Brotherhood Way San Francisco, CA 94132 (669) 444-1284 facebook.com/groups/ 43101451376 udy@pobox.com
Teacher: Udy Gold
Israeli folk dance party meets each second Saturday of the month. Warm-up and beginners’ session at 7:30 p.m.; 8:15-10 p.m for requests. Information on Facebook.
Cafe Simcha (Israeli Folk Dancing)
Arlington Community Church 52 Arlington Ave. Kensington, CA 94707 (510) 386-3155 cafesimcha.org dpbergen@gmail.com
Contact: David Bergen
Wednesday evenings: 7:45-9 p.m. teaching; requests until 11:30 p.m. $8. Dance parties every fifth week.
Israeli Folk Dancing in Marin
Osher Marin JCC
200 N. San Pedro Road San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 444-8090/ Fax: (415) 491-1235 marinjcc.org lschiff@marinjcc.org
Dance Instructor: Bronwyn Eisenberg Interim-Director, Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood: Laura Schiff
ARTS
Israeli folk dancing classes with Israeli and world music — fun and great exercise for all ages. Check website for the schedule and to register for six-week packages.
Israeli Folk Dancing in Santa Rosa Congregation Beth Ami 4676 Mayette Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 528-4874, (707) 360-3000 bethamisr.org office@bethamisr.org
Contact: Leanne Schy
Welcoming group, varying skill levels, lots of fun. Every other Wednesday, 7 p.m. to whenever the dancers stop. Call or check website.
Israeli Folk Dancing in South Bay (408) 771-4542 louitucker.com loui@louitucker.com
Dance Instructor: Loui Tucker
Dancing with a seasoned Israeli folk dancer with over 40 years of experience teaching beginner, intermediate and advanced lessons throughout the South Bay. First visit is free. Check website or email for schedule.
Tuesdays in San Francisco
Congregation Am Tikvah 625 Brotherhood Way San Francisco, CA 94132 (408) 406-6766
udy@pobox.com
Teachers: Udy and Ori Gold
Israeli folk dance class; all ages and all levels welcome. 7:30 p.m. for beginners and 8:1510 p.m. for requests. Learn basic Israeli dance steps and beginner dances. Adults $10, students $5.
Genealogy & History
Jewish Historical Society of Napa Valley (707) 253-7305
Highlights contributions of Jews to the region; commissioned two books “Under the Vine and the Fig Tree” by Lin Weber and “The Jews of Napa Valley” by Donna Mendelsohn and Henry Michalski.
San Francisco Bay Area Jewish Genealogical Society
P.O. Box 318214
San Francisco, CA 94131 (650) 208-3580 sfbajgs.org president@sfbajgs.org
President: Jeremy Frankel
Vice President: Preeva Tramiel
All speaker programs via Zoom. Publishes “ZichronNote,” a quarterly journal, in print and electronically. Also offers record transcription volunteer opportunities.
Judaica, Gifts & Books
Judaica can also be found at gift shops in synagogues and JCCs.
Afikomen Judaica and Bookshop*
3042 Claremont Ave. Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 655-1977 afikomen.com mail@afikomen.com
Co-Owner and Rabbi: Chaim Mahgel-Friedman
Co-Owner and Manager: Nell Mahgel-Friedman
Specializes in being a welcoming space. Find deep spirituality and intellectual curiosity reflected in the diverse range of ritual items and books and gifts for holidays, life-cycle events, celebrations or personal interest.
Cutting Edge Creations*
San Jose, CA (877) 321-7925 (toll free) lisarauchwerger.com
cec@lisarauchwerger.com
Owner/artist: Lisa Rauchwerger
Custom ketubot (all flavors), symbolic papercuts and paper sculpture, Hebrew and English calligraphy, invitations and whimsical illustrations. Commissioned pieces welcome for all occasions.
Dayenu
3220 California St. (inside JCCSF) San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 563-6563 dayenu.com
3055 Porter Gulch Road Aptos, CA 95003 (831) 479-3444
shirley@ginzburgs.com
Manager: Shirley Ginzburg
Volunteer-run venue for Judaica shopping. Serves the entire South Bay and offers a selection of mezuzahs, tallits, ritual items,
holiday items and jewelry. Open Sunday morning, Wednesday afternoon and by appointment.
The Sukkah Project®* (844) 4-sukkot (478-5568) sukkot.com shalom@sukkot.com
Owner: Abram Herman
Sukkot should be a time of joy, not frustration. Skip the stress with an easy, affordable, 100-percent klutz-proof sukkah kit. From small family-sized sukkah kits to giant sukkahs for schools or shuls.
Women of Rodef Sholom Judaica Gift Shop
Osher Marin JCC 200 N. San Pedro Road San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 640-7868
wrs-giftshop.square.site wrsgiftshop@gmail.com
Great selection of Judaica. Hours: Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fridays 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Summer and holiday hours may differ. Free delivery.
Museums & Galleries
The Contemporary Jewish Museum*
736 Mission St. San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 655-7800
Fax: (415) 655-7815 thecjm.org info@thecjm.org
Interim Executive Director: Kerry King
Visitor Experience Manager: Emily Byrne
Since its founding in 1984, this downtown San Francisco museum has presented dynamic exhibitions and educational programs that explore contemporary perspectives on Jewish culture, history, art and ideas.
The Fine Museum
Congregation Emanu-El 2 Lake St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 751-2541 x 123
Director, Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood: Jessica Rosenerg
Rotating art and photography exhibits celebrating Jewish life. Free exhibit openings with artists’ receptions.
Katz Snyder Gallery
JCCSF
3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1200
jccsf.org/program/art-exhibits support@jccsf.org
Director of Public Programs and Community Engagement: Gayle Lidman
Rotating exhibits featuring art, photography, artifacts and multimedia that illuminate history, culture and individuals.
Guided tours, lectures and opportunities to meet the artists.
Koch Gallery at the Schultz Cultural Arts Hall
Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8700 paloaltojcc.org info@paloaltojcc.org
Innovative collection of art exhibits and receptions, welcoming local and national artists to the JCC for their work to be enjoyed by all.
The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life at UC Berkeley* 2121 Allston Way Berkeley, CA 9472 (510) 643-2526 magnes.berkeley.edu magnes@berkeley.edu
Executive Director: Hannah Weisman
Manager: Rana Burroughs
One of the pre-eminent Jewish collections in a university setting, with diverse holdings including art, objects, texts, music and historical documents about Jews in the global diaspora and the American West.
Peninsula JCC Art Gallery
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 378-2751
Showcases the works of talented Jewish artists from around the world and presents exhibits that explore Jewish values, themes and ideas. Free and open to the public.
Primary mission is community outreach, bringing Jewish music — classic to contemporary — to senior facilities. Meeting Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in person and with Zoom option. Phone or email for venues.
Jewish Folk Chorus of San Francisco
Mail to: P.O. Box 590987 San Francisco, CA 94159 (510) 533-3903 jewishfolkchorussf.org info@jewishfolkchorussf.org
President: Renee Enteen
Over 98 years of singing and performing primarily Yiddish folk music; also some Ladino, Hebrew and Russian songs. Group meets on Tuesday nights in SF. All voices welcome. Knowledge of Yiddish not necessary.
Nigunim Community Chorus (510) 504-2235 nigunim.org achibenshalom@gmail.com
Director: Achi Ben Shalom
Sings and performs Jewish folk, liturgical and modern songs in Hebrew, Ladino and Yiddish. New singers always welcome. Sight-reading skill helpful but not required.
Yiddish Choristers of Congregation Etz Chayim 4161 Alma St. Palo Alto, CA 94306 kkbergen@comcast.net
Musical Director: Karen Bergen
Sing-alongs mainly in Yiddish, plus occasionally in Hebrew, Ladino, Russian and English. Adult group meets two afternoons per month on Zoom. For schedule, email director.
Performing Arts
JCC East Bay 1414 Walnut St. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-0237
jcceastbay.org
sarahwr@jcceastbay.org
Director of Community Engagement: Sarah Wolfman-Robichaud
Programming features music, film, older adult activities, learning and volunteer opportunities.
JCCSF Arts & Ideas
3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1200 jccsf.org/arts support@jccsf.org
Director of Arts & Ideas: Stephanie Singer
Enlightening lectures and conversations with ground-breaking thought leaders and intellectuals, star chefs and food mavens, up-and-coming authors and speakers whose ideas are reshaping our world.
Peninsula JCC
Cultural and Performing Arts
800 Foster City Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 212-PJCC (7522) Fax: (650) 378-2799
pjcc.org
kgordon@pjcc.org
Cultural Arts and Adult Director: Kimberly Gordon Concerts, thought-provoking lectures, award-winning art gallery, cultural events and more.
Schultz Cultural Arts Hall at the Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-8700
paloaltojcc.org/culturalarts info@paloaltojcc.org
Cultural Arts Manager: Michelle Shabtai
Venue features internationally acclaimed performers, authors and thought leaders in an inspiring season of music, drama, dance, lectures, cinema, art and more.
Sports
Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame
54 Fernwood Drive San Francisco, CA 94127 (415) 516-3885
ncjshof.org
iamcher@comcast.net
President: Steve Sockolov
Treasurer: Cheryl Markuse Arenson
Recognizes distinguished achievement of Northern California Jewish sports figures. Provides support for Jewish athletes in need, places books on Jewish sports history in libraries, facilitates Jewish Heritage Nights with local professional teams.
Yiddish Culture
KlezCalifornia Mailing address only: 6714 Gladys Ave. El Cerrito, CA 94530 (415) 789-7679
klezcalifornia.org nu@klezcalifornia.org
Executive Director: Judy Kunofsky
President: Gerry Tenney
Connect with Yiddish culture: Website includes searchable database of events online and all over Northern California, Bay Area resources including klezmer bands. Free monthly e-newsletter.
Kutner Yiddish Resources
Philip “Fishl” Kutner 1128 Tanglewood Way San Mateo, CA 94403 (650) 349-6946 derbay.org fishl@derbay.org
Founder: Philip Kutner
Yiddish website, international AngloYiddish newsletter, international Yiddish Zoom group.
Workers Circle/Arbeter Ring
Northern California circle.org/northern-california bigwilensky@sonic.net
Yiddish Class Coordinator: Sharon Wilensky
Offers two levels of free biweekly Yiddish classes online: Beginner/intermediate Friday afternoons. Spring semester January through June; fall semester September through December. (No July-August classes.) Yiddish-Hebrew alphabet knowledge required. (Alphabet resources provided on request.)
BANQUET EVENT VENUES INVITATIONS
PARTIES DJS RESTAURANTS LIGHTING
ENTERTAINMENT
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Banquet & Event Venues
Some of the following facilities host kosher events; many do not do so exclusively. We strongly advise our readers who keep kosher to verify the kashrut status and supervision in each case.
Many synagogues and JCCs have sanctuary and banquet facilities. Please check with the individual organizations. See also Chapter 4 Religious Life and Chapter 5 Agencies & Organizations.
East Bay
Plank*
98 Broadway Oakland, CA 94607 plankoakland.com sales@plankoakland.com
Contact: Angelica Domenichelli
Overlooking the waterfront, Plank is a restaurant, sports bar, beer garden and event space where friends, business associates and/or family can gather. Over 50,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor dining space.
Peninsula/
South Bay
Sheraton Palo Alto*
625 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 328-2800 marriott.com/sjcsi
cgerstner@pahotel.com
Director of Sales and Marketing: Colleen Gerstner
Indoor and outdoor facilities for bar/bat mitzvahs and social events. Accommodates 75 to 350 guests in renovated ballrooms. Special bar/bat mitzvah guest room rates available.
The Westin Palo Alto*
675 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 321-4422
marriott.com/sjcwp cgerstner@pahotel.com
Director of Sales and Marketing: Colleen Gerstner
Elegant facilities for weddings, banquets and meetings. Seating up to 80 people. Renovated restaurant, bar and guest rooms.
Elegant
Seating
Seating
Beautiful
Restaurant
Adjacent
Beautiful
675 El Camino Real · Palo Alto, CA (650) 321-4422
San Francisco
JCCSF Private Event Rentals
3200 California St.
San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 292-1200
jccsf.org/rent-our-space support@jccsf.org
Senior Director of Business Operations: Aimee Gordon
From grand and elegant to casual and comfortable, our distinctive event spaces can accommodate from 10 to 480 guests. Choose from three-story atrium, grand hall, theater or various meeting rooms.
One Market Restaurant Private Dining*
1 Market St.
San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 777-2233
onemarket.com/private-dining events@onemarket.com
Special Events Manager: Karen Almazan General Manager/Partner: Lorenzo Bouchard
For over 25 years, farm-to-table culinary precision and professional hospitality have delighted guests at events from intimate to grand. Ten customizable booking options.
Named among top 10 American restaurants by Gayot Guide.
San Francisco
Design Center Galleria*
101 Henry Adams St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 490-5861
sfvenues.com
jwagner@sfdesigncenter.com
Director of Special Events: Julia Wagner
Modern and versatile venue for celebrations, with state-of-the art lighting, retractable skylight, flexible catering, dance floor and more.
The City Club of San Francisco*
155 Sansome St.
San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 854-7241
Fax: (415) 362-2042
cityclubsf.com membership@cityclubsf.com
Elegant Art Deco design and stunning Diego Rivera fresco, in the heart of the city. Bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings and celebrations of all types. Specializes in outstanding cuisine, excellent service and in-house event-planning expertise.
(650) 858-0771 rsvpbyfrosty@gmail.com
PARTIES AND
THE ART OF THE PARTY
Invitations
Paper Pizzazz!* (650) 858-0771
rsvpbyfrosty.com
rsvpbyfrosty@gmail.com
Contact: Frosty Gross
Personalized service for bar/bat mitzvah and wedding invitations and holiday cards, plus gifts and envelope-addressing at discounted prices.
Music & DJs
Gatsby Event Studios* (925) 200-7391
gatsbyeventstudios.com
info@gatsbyeventstudios.com
Founder, MC/DJ: Adam Goldstein, Conner Broderick
One-stop shop for complete event entertainment and state-of-the-art production services. Providing award-winning DJs, live music, lighting and audio-visual production for weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, festivals, corporate events and parties.
Joel Nelson Productions* 1157 Saratoga Ave. San Jose, CA 95129 (800) 578-5780
joelnelson.com
info@joelnelson.com
Owner/Entertainer: Joel Nelson
With over 25 years experience and thousands of weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs, this full-service agency supplies emcees, DJs, bands, lighting, photo booths and much more.
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Bagels &Bakeries
As Kneaded Bakery
585 Victoria Court San Leandro, CA 94577 (650) 503-9285 askneadedbakery.com
Woman-founded artisanal bread bakery features sourdough loaves, French baguettes, challah and noshes that nourish communities across the Bay Area at farmers’ markets, independent grocers, restaurants and a brick-and-mortar store.
Bageltopia
1401 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94702 thebageltopia.com dan@thebageltopia.com
Co-founder Dan Graf allows the dough a four-day cold proof and ferment time before boiling and baking, which results in flavorful bagels with crisp, glossy exteriors and chewy interiors.
Beauty’s Bagel Shop
3838 Telegraph Ave. Oakland, CA 94609 (510) 788-6098 beautysbagelshop.com info@beautysbagelshop.com
Local favorite in Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood for nearly a decade — enjoy legendary fried chicken sandwich, killer deviled eggs and mouthwatering bagels, served by friendly and welcoming team.
Boichik Bagels boichikbagels.com
Berkeley 3170 College Ave. Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 858-5189 collegeave@boichikbagels.com Factory 1225 Sixth St.
Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 616-2158
sixthstreet@boichikbagels.com
Larkspur
238 Magnolia Ave. Larkspur, CA (415) 891-3327
larkspur@boichikbagels.com
Palo Alto
Town & Country Shopping Center 855 El Camino Real, Suite 115 Palo Alto, CA 94301 (650) 352-5995
paloalto@boichikbagels.com
San Francisco–Fillmore 1946 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA 94115 (628) 867-7982
fillmore@boichikbagels.com
San Francisco–Presidio Heights 3665 Sacramento St. San Francisco, CA 94118 (628) 867-7485
sacramentostreet@boichikbagels.com
Santa Clara 2050 Wyatt Dr. Santa Clara, CA (408) 352-5041
santaclara@boichikbagels.com
Serious New York-style bagels, produced under kosher supervision.
Choux SF
248 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 757-0722
chouxsf.com hello@chouxsf.com
Founder: Laura Athuil
Light-filled bakery specializes in traditional French cream puffs plus more creative varieties. Challah available on Fridays.
Daily Driver dailydriver.com info@dailydriver.com
Dogpatch 2535 Third St. San Francisco, CA 94107 (415) 852-3535
Ferry Building
1 Ferry Building, Stall 21 San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 548-5720
Grand Bakery (510) 465-1110 grandbakeryoakland.com bear@grandbakeryoakland.com
Owner: Bear Silber
Strictly kosher bakery delivers challah, macaroons, cookies and bagels, handcrafted in Oakland since 1959. Also a wholesale business, taking orders for pickup. Mission is to enable people to gather around food and Jewish ritual.
Hella Bagels
1019 San Pablo Ave. Albany, CA 94706 hella-bagels.com blake@hella-bagels.com
Owner: Blake Hunter
New York-inspired bagels, inventive schmears, bagel dogs and sandwiches.
House of Bagels
5030 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 752-6000 houseofbagels.com orders@houseofbagels.com
Since 1962, using a bagel recipe brought from Brooklyn. Also offers artisanal breads, cookies and pastries in a New York-style deli. Open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels
477 S. California Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 329-0700 izzysbrooklynbagels.com info@izzysbrooklynbagels.com
Kosher bagels, kosher catering, pastries, salads, classic Brooklyn pizza. Business and party catering. Under supervision of the Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California. Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
CATERING AND EVENTS
house-made pickles, vegetables from their farm and sandwiches featuring premier
Oakland, CA 94609 (510) 544-3759 poppybagelsca.com poppybagels@gmail.com Owner: Reesa Kashuk
Oakland bagel place prides itself on handrolled, cold-proofed bagels, crafted in a signature California style. Bagels fuse artisan tradition with innovative West Coast flair, offering a memorable taste experience.
San Francisco Four Embarcadero Center #4504 San Francisco, CA 94111
Handmade pastries, buttery croissants, crusty bread and fresh coffee drinks at this established bakery that draws pastry enthusiasts. Open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Schlok’s Bagels 1263 Fell St. San Francisco, CA 94117
California bagels inspired by old-school technique. Freshly baked bagels, house-cured and smoked lox, locally roasted coffee.
372 Colusa Ave. Kensington, CA 94707 (510) 596-9935 semifreddis.com
Founded in 1984 with one sourdough recipe, this bakery now sources ingredients for 50 different breads and pastries: fennel from India, sesame from India, poppy seeds from Australia, cinnamon from Indonesia and vanilla from Madagascar. Kosher.
The Bagel Mill 212 Western Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 981-8010 thebagelmill.com info@thebagelmill.com
Chef/Owner: Glenda Dougherty Manning
Flour freshly milled on-site produces tasty organic sourdough bagels, like only a bagelry in the Bay Area can make. Order online for pick up or delivery.
Offers a variety of artisan bagels and cream cheeses, babka, challah and gravlax. Available at 10 North Bay locations. Free delivery within Napa and St. Helena; minimal charge for deliveries to Calistoga, American Canyon and Fairfield.
Catering
Some of the following offer kosher food. Please check with the caterer to be sure they meet kashrut requirements. Some of the following listings are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers.
Anaviv Catering and Events
600 Hoffman Blvd. Richmond, CA 94804 (415) 376-1400
anaviv.com info@anaviv.com
Chef/Owner: Arnon Oren
Sales & Event Production Manager: Tonya Brown
Full-service, customized catering and communal events, including floral design. Wood-fired pizza, open-air food market. Business is committed to sustainability and is Deep Green Certified; part of California’s Green Business Network.
Avi-ously Delicious Catering*
41 Hamilton Drive Suite G Novato, CA 94949 (415) 892-7685
Kosher and nonkosher catering and elegant desserts for every occasion and budget. Full-service catering, offering a diverse selection of cuisines and desserts from around the world.
Bishulim SF (415) 881-0843 bishulimsf.com bishulimsf@gmail.com
Chef/Owner: Aliza Grayevsky Somekh
Catered foods from Israel and the diaspora; exotic Middle Eastern fare including special malabi (creamy rose pudding with coconut), Shabbat meals, Israeli street food, holiday gift baskets.
Blossom Catering
1760 Industrial Way, Suite 2 Napa, CA 94558 (707) 234-5179 blossomcatering.com
For more information about the organizations in Resource, check out their expanded listings at JewishResourceGuide.com.
office@blossomcatering.com
Chef/Owner: Itamar Abramovich
Founded in 2015, high-end Napa Valley and Bay Area provider known for superb cuisine and service. Mission: consistent excellence, honoring local ingredients through traditional and innovative culinary experiences.
Offers personal cooking for families and small events, meal planning classes and children’s cooking classes. Happy to travel to you.
Dina’s Catering (650) 827-1309
dinaskoshercatering.com
arie@dinaskoshercatering.com
Owner: Dina Man
Supervising Manager: Arie Man
One of the Bay Area’s premiere kosher caterers since 1994. Holiday events, brunches, luncheons, dinners, weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs and birthdays. Supervision of Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California.
Epic Bites Catering
Oakland, CA (646) 853-4630
epicbitescatering.com epicbitescatering@gmail.com
Chef: Heshy Fried
Provides fare made from locally sourced ingredients for garden parties to galas. Certified kosher by the Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California, using glatt kosher meats raised on family farms.
Serving the Bay Area since 1985. Personalized attention for weddings, graduations, dinners, cocktail parties, commitments and bar/bat mitzvahs. Vegetarian menus available.
Haute Cuisine Catering* 550 E. Remington Drive Sunnyvale, CA 94087 (408) 685-2058
Creative cuisine for any size event. Personalized attention for weddings, dinners, lunches, cocktail parties, corporate events, kiddushes, bar/bat mitzvahs and holiday dinners/parties. Vegetarian and vegan menus available.
Hugh Groman Group (510) 647-5165 thehughgromangroup.com info@gromangroup.com
Full-service catering and event planning. Prepared party platters delivered and picked up. Group includes Greenleaf Platters and Phil’s Sliders. Serving elegant affairs and casual occasions.
We offer extensive menus featuring many varied cuisines.
Kosher catering from the simplest to gourmet, elegant to casual. American, Mediterranean, French and Far East cuisine. Specializing in kosher meals in a box.
Olive 2059 Junction Ave. El Cerrito, CA 94530 (510) 974-3086 olivesf.com info@olivesf.com
Events manager: Elinor Nahmani
Provides Mediterranean-California fusion cuisine for special events and biweekly meal delivery. Chef and co-founder Arkadi Kluger, winner of Food Network’s show “The Great Food Truck Race,” is known for vegetable-forward menus and innovative presentations.
Oren’s Hummus Catering 1279 Alma Court San Jose, CA 95112 (650) 204-0017 ext. 1 orenshummus.com catering@orenshummus.com
Catering traditional and not-so-traditional twists on favorite Israeli lunch and dinner fare. Hummus, borekas, kebabs and other specialties.
Full-service, fine-dining, strictly kosher catering company serving the entire Bay Area. Corporate or lifecycle events and fundraisers. Specializes in farm-to-table, seasonal and sustainable approach to the art of dining and gathering.
Tacolicious (408) 712-5627 tacolicious.com/catering events@tacolicious.com Director of Sales & Events: Jerome Dees Jr. Palo Alto 632 Emerson St. Palo Alto, CA 94301
The Mission 741 Valencia St. San Francisco, CA 94110
Full-service and drop-off catering throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tony Caters
5202 North 1st St. San Jose, CA 95002 (408) 263-4366
tonycaterstoyou.com info@smashingdishes.com
Originally conceived as a lunch stop in the heart of Silicon Valley, now has expanded into an experienced catering service specializing in corporate and special events.
Food Festivals
Carmel Jewish Food Festival Congregation Beth Israel Carmel 5716 Carmel Valley Road Carmel, CA 93923 (831) 624-2015
The tradition continues. The 37th Jewish Food Festival at Congregation Beth Israel will delight your taste buds. Savor “Jewish Soul Food” on Sunday, August 25.
Kosher
Wineries
Covenant Wines
1102 Sixth St. Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 559-9045
covenantwines.com wine@covenantwines.com
Managing Director: Sagie Kleinlerer Vintner/Co-Owner: Jeff Morgan
Urban kosher winery housed in a 7,000-square-foot warehouse in Berkeley. Under supervision of Orthodox Union. All wines are kosher for Passover.
Hagafen Cellars
4160 Silverado Trail Napa, CA 94558 (707) 252-0781 x 113 Fax: (707) 252-4562
hagafen.com
visit@hagafen.com
Owner and Winemaker: Ernie Weir
Award-winning, estate-bottled Napa Valley wines since 1979. OU supervised, kosher for
Passover and the rest of the year. Mevushal. Vegan. Retail sales, tours and tasting.
Markets & Kosher Food
Andronico’s Community Market 1200 Irving St. San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 661-3220
This location has added about 400 additional kosher products. The selection was overseen by Yakov Yarmove, the Chicago-based corporate director of ethnic foods at Albertsons Market, which owns Andronico’s and Safeway.
Bay Kosher
3477 Golden Gate Way Lafayette, CA 94549 (925) 440-1226 chabadoflamorinda.com/templates/ articlecco_cdo/aid/4863254/jewish/ Bay-Kosher-Store.htm
Bay Kosher, a market that is part of Chabad of Lamorinda, offers competitive prices on kosher meat and groceries.
Burlingame 1477 Chapin Ave. Burlingame, CA 94010 (650) 558-9992
Greenbrae
270 Bon Air Shopping Center Greenbrae, CA 94904 (415) 461-1164
Palo Alto
164 S. California Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 323-8361
San Bruno
22 Bayhill Shopping Center
San Bruno, CA 94066 (650) 873-8075
San Francisco: Castro 4201 18th St. San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 255-8959
Grand Central/Pacific Heights 2435 California St.
San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 567-4902
Tower/Twin Peaks 635 Portola Drive San Francisco, CA 94127 (415) 664-1600
San Mateo 49 42nd Ave. San Mateo, CA 94403 (650) 372-2828
Sausalito 100 Harbor Drive Sausalito, CA 94965 (415) 331-6900
Kosher foods, grocery, dairy, frozen foods, wines and meat. On-premises meat cutting at Palo Alto store. Order products at any branch for delivery to the closest branch.
Fresh kosher meats and poultry; groceries refrigerated and frozen. Many items from Israel. Fresh-made salads, deli items, shwarma and large kosher wine selection. Lunch served daily.
Pars Kosher Market
3978 S. Bascom Ave.
San Jose, CA 95124 (408) 340-5443
parskoshermarket.com parskoshermarket@gmail.com
Extensive selection of kosher grocery items both fresh and frozen, meats and desserts. Provides catering service.
Restaurants & Takeout
Some of the following offer kosher food. Please check with the facility to be sure it meets kashrut requirements.
Private dining experiences in formal dining room for 10-15 guests. Multi-course tasting
menu and beverages any day of the week. Reservations required.
Bubbala’s Neighborhood Eatery
906 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. San Anselmo, CA 94960 (203) 856-5746 bubbalas.com greg@bubbalas.com
Head Chef: Greg Bernson
Co-Owner: Janelle Loiselle
Jewish-inspired deli in San Anselmo led by chefs Greg Bernson and Janelle Loiselle presents traditional comfort foods infused with California flair, bridging nostalgia with innovative culinary surprises.
Canela Bistro and Wine Bar 2272 Market St. San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 552-3000 canelasf.com contact@canelasf.com
Menu features Chef Mat Schuster’s Spanish tapas, entrees, paellas and homemade desserts, in earthy and warm surroundings. Catering available.
Comal
2020 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 926-6300 comalberkeley.com
Modern design and Mexican cuisine meet at this Berkeley eatery known for modern interpretations of dishes and drinks from throughout Mexico. Don’t miss the rear patio with a full bar and covered dining area.
Delfina Restaurant 3621 18th St. San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 552-4055 delfinasf.com delfina@delfinasf.com
Bustling, James Beard Award-winning neighborhood trattoria featuring Cal-Italian cuisine in the Mission District, owned by Annie and Craig Stoll.
Desta Ethiopian Cafe
303a Oakland Ave. Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 350-8022 destaethiopiancafe.com destaethiopiancafe@gmail.com
Kosher Ethiopian cafe. Locally sourced, slow-cooked food, served with warm smiles. Dine in or take out.
Drewish Deli
11 Mitchell Lane Healdsburg, CA 95448 (707) 955-0600 drewishdeli.com info@drewishdeli.com
Signature concept brings together the traditional flavors of a Jewish deli with the beloved goodness of freshly baked bagels. Expect a diverse menu.
Pandemic-born pop-up is now a restaurant, featuring organic bagels, deli favorites such as Reuben sandwiches, classic lox, salads and traditional Jewish breads and sweets.
Falafel STOP
1325 Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road Sunnyvale, CA 94087 (408) 735-7182 falafelstop.com info@falafelstop.com
Quick-stop restaurant serving authentic falafel as it is served throughout the Middle East. Fresh pita bread daily.
Firefly 4288 24th St. San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 821-7652 fireflysf.com info@fireflysf.com
Neighborhood spot founded in 1993 by Brad Levy and Veva Edelson offers an ever-changing menu of homestyle cooking with a twist. Mostly gluten free. Open Tuesday - Saturday 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Grossman’s Noshery & Bar
308 1/2 Wilson St. Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 595-7707 grossmanssr.com info@grossmanssr.com
Part of the eclectic Stark group, serves traditional and twists on traditional Jewish deli fare. Cocktails and wine at the bar. Fresh-baked rugelach, babka, bagels and cookies.
Holy Sushi
3441 Alma St. Suite 100 Palo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 254-6007
holysushi.org info@holysushi.org
Sushi and authentic Japanese cuisine that is completely kosher. Full-service restaurant with take-out and catering as well. Open six days a week in Palo Alto.
Hummus Bodega
5549 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 463-6622
hummusbodega.com hummusbodegamain@gmail.com
Fast-casual restaurant franchise with new owners who have added shwarma to the healthy, kosher Mediterranean menu and offer special take-out dishes on Fridays for Shabbat meals.
Freshly prepared Mediterranean cuisine including Greek and Israeli salads, our famous baba ghanoush and hummus, falafel, lamb, chicken and kefta kababs, gyros and shawarma. Also serves delicious pita sandwiches, soups and much more.
Loveski Deli
1813 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 18 Larkspur, CA 94939 loveskideli.com marin@loveskideli.com
“Jew-ish” deli owned by Christopher and Martina Kostow, features always-boiled, handmade sourdough bagels, house-made pickles and other fermented foods that focus on the vegetables from their farm and sandwiches featuring premier cured smoked meats.
Mark ’n Mike’s
1 Market St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 777-5577 onemarket.com lbouchard@onemarket.com
Deli food served at One Market is from Mark ’n Mike’s, a popular New York-style pop-up from back in the pandemic days.
Marla Bakery and Cafe
Railroad Square
208 Davis St.
Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 852-4091 marlabakery.com
The bakery features challah and bagels; the cafe offers breakfast, lunch, chicken dinners on Friday and Sunday suppers. Owners Amy Brown and Joe Wolf use fresh ingredients and locally grown produce. Catering available.
One Market Restaurant
1 Market St.
San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 777-5577 onemarket.com info@onemarket.com
General Manager/Partner: Lorenzo Bouchard
Special Events Manager: Karen Almazan
Named among Top 10 American Restaurants in the U.S. by Gayot Guide; recipient of Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence. Farm-to-table culinary precision and impeccable service since 1993.
19419 Stevens Creek Blvd. Cupertino, CA 95014 (408) 982-5237
Los Gatos
1 N Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos , CA (408) 344-6736
Mountain View
126 Castro St. Mountain View, CA (650) 938-6736
Palo Alto
261 University Ave. Palo Alto, CA (650) 752-6492
San Francisco
71 Third St. San Francisco, CA (415) 915-6736
Traditional and not-so-traditional twists on favorite Israeli lunch and dinner fare. Hummus, borekas, kebabs, dine in, take-out and catering available. Numerous locations around the Bay Area.
Pomella
3770 Piedmont Ave., Unit B Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 250-9215
pomellaoakland.com info@pomellaoakland.com
Chef/Owner: Mica Talmor
Modern California-Israeli food; catering, pickup and delivery; Levantine, Maghrebi, North African, Mediterranean, Eastern European and Middle Eastern food.
Proposition Chicken propositionchicken.com
San Francisco
3465 California St. at Laurel Village San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 422-0646
Oakland 3260 Lakeshore Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 808-5172
Choose a salad, sandwich or entree. Choose your chicken: fried, flipped (slow-roasted) or fake (crispy barbecued tofu). Choose from several sides, including matzo ball soup. Breakfast also available.
Sababa sababasf.com guy@sababasf.com
Owner: Guy Eschel
Kearny Street 329 Kearny St. San Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 800-6853
Stevenson Street 71 Stevenson St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 658-7494
Sababa means “thumbs up” the feeling patrons should experience when they bite into a falafel sandwich loaded with tasty salads, pickles and sauces. Also pita sandwiches. Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sabra Grill Restaurant 419 Grant Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 982-3656
sabragrill.com
sabragrill@aol.com
Owner: Eitan Hilleli
Israeli-Middle Eastern, glatt kosher restaurant with a mashgiach temidi. Breakfast, lunch and dinner; catering and takeout. Supervision of Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California. Special food for Shabbat.
Sailing Goat
1900 Stenmark Drive Richmond, CA 94801 (510) 847-7426
Bayside restaurant destination features wood-fired pizza, coastal cuisine and sunset views. Live music includes old and new favorite Israeli songs as well as a few familiar American songs.
Saul’s Restaurant and Delicatessen 1475 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 848-3354 saulsdeli.com general@saulsdeli.com
Owner: Sam Tobis
North Berkeley deli since 1986, offers Jewish cuisine for California palates, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal food. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily except Thanksgiving and Yom Kippur.
The Ma’lawah Bar
4131 El Camino Real, Suite 100 Palo Alto, CA 94306 (408) 489-7227
themalawahbar.com
themalawahbar@gmail.com
Owner: Doreet Jehassi
Specializes in artisanal breads such as jachnun and ma’lawah and exotic native cuisine from Yemen. Catering, takeout and delivery available. Certified kosher under the supervision of Sunrise Kosher–Va’ad of Northern California.
Wise Sons Jewish Deli wisesonsdeli.com pastrami@wisesonsdeli.com
Downtown Oakland 1700 Franklin St. Oakland, CA 94612 (510) 947-5842
Fillmore 1520 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 795-3671
Hayes Valley 537 Octavia St. San Francisco, CA 94102 (415) 800-6960
SoMa
Contemporary Jewish Museum 736 Mission St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 655-7887
The Mission 3150 24th St. San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 787-DELI (3354)
Wise Sons at the JCCSF 3200 California St. San Francisco, CA 94118
California-inspired Jewish deli food with roots in tradition and an eye on the future. Bagels baked fresh daily and classic deli sandwiches. Wise Sons at the JCCSF is opening Fall 2024, see website for updated information.
Caramelized potato kugel (Photo/Micah Siva)
REAL ESTATE HOME SECURITY BUYING FINANCIAL SERVICES MORTGAGES FUNDS
* Listings with asterisks are provided as a courtesy to our advertisers. Text in blue is website address.
Finance
Red Tower Capital Inc.* 111 Pine St. Suite 1715
San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 475-8800
redtowercapital.com invest@redtowercapital.com
Founder and President: Solomon Gorlick
Private real estate lending and investment firm specializing in bridge loans and real estate investments. Annually audited mortgage fund RTC VI generates solid, predictable returns.
ProMortgage* 538 4th St. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 755-6901
david@promortgage.com promortgage.com
Based in Marin County for 27 years with an office in Sonoma, specializes in real estate financing for most property types. Offers everything the big banks can, and everything they can’t.
Security
HighCom Security Services* 1900 Webster St. Oakland, CA 94612 (800) 935-4807
Director of Protective Services: Christopher Morris
Proactive and complete security solutions. Services include facility and event security, alarms, cameras and access-control systems (installation and monitoring), security consulting and training.
Real Estate
Bellings Brothers Real Estate Team* 891 Beach St. San Francisco, CA 94109 bellingsbrothers.com
Principals: Michael Bellings
Aaron Bellings
Since 2019, Aaron and Michael Bellings have been the #1 Buyer Team and #2 Overall Team in town. San Francisco natives, the brothers have always had a passion for people, real estate and all things San Francisco.
Cohen Bleier Group*
Coldwell Banker Realty 4115 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Suite 201 Danville, CA 94506
cohenbleiergroup.com
Realtors: AJ Cohen Jason Bleier
Respect, relationships and results for clients are the cornerstones of this second-generation, top-producing team, with over 500 combined sales. Deeply involved in Jewish community. Treating every client like family sets the foundation for continued success.
Michael Feiner, Broker*
Oasis Real Estate
2000 Allston Way
Suite 86
Berkeley, CA 94701
(510) 525-6261 (office)
(510) 367-1778 (cell) oasis-realestate.com
michael@oasis-realestate.com
Broker: Michael Feiner
Independent, locally owned real estate firm with a reputation built on experience, expertise and a singular commitment to clients’ best interests. Cal BRE #00961731.
161 S. San Antonio Road, Suite 1 Los Altos, CA 94022 (650) 743-1838 susansimshomes.com susan.sims@theagencyre.com
J. Readers’ Choice Award Winner since 2005. Knowledgeable about Peninsula communities; dedicated to exceptional service. Entrenched in Jewish and greater local communities. Longtime member of a local synagogue. License #01408349.
House & Home
Carmel Stone Imports*
Palo Alto - Showroom & Design Center 3160 W. Bayshore Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 800-7840 carmelimports.com robbie@carmelimports.com
President/CEO: Robbie Robinson
Senior Account Manager: Danielle Amaral
Leading importer/distributor of granite, marble, limestone slabs, tile, mosaics and moldings; ceramic handmade, porcelain, glass tile. Large importer of Jerusalem stone slabs, tile and accessories.
ART FOOD AGENCIES KIDS TEENS
Temple
Jewish Silicon Valley is a new organization formed in 2021 by the merger of the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center with the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. We work with partner agencies to realize the vision of a vibrant Jewish community in the South Bay.
Connecting people at every life stage
Our mission: To harness the power of community to improve lives, build bridges of understanding, and strengthen the Jewish people here, in Israel, and around the world.
Jewish Silicon Valley provides programs through the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center with a special focus on Jewish life & culture, youth & families, healthy aging, and wellness. We also support the work of other local Jewish agencies to ensure a broad range of opportunities are available to everyone in our diverse community.
Building bridges of understanding
Jewish Silicon Valley works with Jewish and other partners to create collaborations and conversations that break down barriers, transcend differences, and foster a sense of unity.
Strengthening the Jewish people
Jewish Silicon Valley is a convener of the larger Jewish community in the South Bay, bringing Jewish leaders together to foster Jewish life in the region. Our fundraising campaigns directly support Jewish communal needs locally and around the world.
