Moving Forward Together

Press Releases

Jewish Family Service Receives 2019 Light of Pride Award from San Diego LGBT Pride


Award Presented During 5th Annual Light Up the Cathedral Interfaith Pride Celebration

SAN DIEGO (July 15, 2019) – San Diego LGBT Pride honored Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) with the 2019 Light of Pride Award for its role in making San Diego a better place for the LGBTQ community during the 5th Annual Light Up the Cathedral Interfaith Pride Celebration hosted by St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral on July 10.

The Light of Pride Award recognizes religious, spiritual and service organizations that serve as role models for affirmation and provide support to San Diego’s LGBTQ community. JFS is one of the most impactful nonprofit agencies countywide, spearheading substantial work to break the cycles of poverty and improve the community.

“Our committee selected JFS as this year’s Light of Pride Award for the nonprofit’s service to the Jewish, LGBTQ, immigrant communities and beyond in our region,” said Fernando Lopez, executive director of San Diego Pride. “Nothing can undo the hate, death or violence our communities have endured, but we can stand shoulder to shoulder, because we are stronger when we stand together.”

JFS has raised awareness of social injustice and celebrated diversity throughout San Diego County for the past century and is a catalyst in building a better future for all San Diegans.

“We are honored to be recognized as a leading organization working to make a positive impact in a community that far too often faces targeted violence yet overcomes it with courage and hope,” said JFS COO Dana Toppel. “Jewish Family Service is guided by the belief that each human being matters and that we all do better, when we all do better.”

The integrated human services provided by JFS touch the lives of more than 32,000 people a year, including immigrants seeking refuge in the U.S., and individuals and families living out of their cars. These services focus on strengthening the San Diego community and have helped countless people build more stable, secure and connected lives.

For more information, to get help, donate or volunteer, visit www.jfssd.org.

About Jewish Family Service of San Diego – Moving Forward Together
Founded in 1918, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is one of San Diego’s most impactful nonprofit agencies – providing resources and support to more than 32,000 San Diegans every year. Through integrated services, the organization empowers people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds to overcome challenges, set goals, and build more stable, secure, and connected lives. JFS is committed to helping individuals and families in crisis move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community. To get help, volunteer, or learn how you can join us in Moving Forward Together, visit www.jfssd.org or call (858) 637-3000.

Media Contacts:
J. Walcher Communications
Phone: (619) 295-7140
Sandy Young: [email protected]
Ashley Weaver: [email protected]