Jewish Family Service of San Diego’s 2026 Heart & Soul Gala on April 18 at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine hotel brought together about 500 supporters who contributed more than $2 million toward the organization’s work to provide shelter, food and other assistance to people in need.
“Every day we ask ourselves ‘Is someone’s life meaningfully better because they came to us?’” JFS Chief Executive Dana Toppel said in a statement. “Every year, tens of thousands of San Diegans rely on JFS for services, support and resources, and we help families and individuals find dignity, stability and hope. The philanthropic support at this year’s Heart & Soul Gala empowers JFS to strengthen our community.”
The gala, led by chairs Marie Raftery and Robert Rubenstein and honorary chairs Evelyn and Ernest Rady, included speakers, dinner, dessert, live music and dancing. The event’s live fundraising portion was bolstered by a $500,000 match by the Radys.
The gala also honored community leaders Jerri-Ann and Gary Jacobs and volunteers Tammy and Louis Vener. ♦