JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE HONORS JOAN AND IRWIN JACOBS, MARIE RAFTERY AND DR. BOB RUBENSTEIN AT HEART & SOUL GALA APRIL 15

Major San Diego nonprofit recognizes longtime philanthropic supporters

April 2, 2023 (San Diego) -- Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) will host its annual Heart & Soul Gala at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on Saturday, April 15 at 6 p.m. This year’s annual gala, “Planting for the Future,” will celebrate JFS’s efforts to provide resources and support to San Diegans of all ages and backgrounds, and share stories of success from throughout the year.

This year’s Gala Honorees are Joan and Irwin Jacobs, along with Marie Raftery and Dr. Bob Rubenstein – recognized for their tremendous support and contributions to JFS throughout the years.

Joan & Irwin Jacobs

Qualcomm co-founder Irwin Jacobs and his wife Joan Irwin focus their philanthropic endeavors on education, health, science and the arts, along with other societal needs – including supporting the community throughout San Diego. The Jacobs have helped sustain JFS for decades and are longtime supporters of the nonprofit’s immigration efforts. JFS’s Kearny Mesa headquarters is named in honor of this exceptional couple, whose strategic investments in JFS have created a lasting legacy.

Marie Raftery & Dr. Bob Rubenstein

Marie Raftery and Dr. Bob Rubenstein have spent decades improving the San Diego community. Rubenstein established the JFS-David Rubenstein Memorial Scholarship in 2009 in honor of his son to support Jewish students on their way to college or vocational school. Since its inception, 277 scholarships have been awarded to 143 students. Raftery is one of JFS’s most active supporters, traveling to Sacramento every year to advocate for bills that benefit JFS’ clients. She served as chair of the JFS board of directors when SDRRN Migrant Shelter Services first opened, chaired the board of directors for Charitable Adult Rides and Services (CARS) and co-chaired the JFS development committee for seven years.

Partnering with Honorary Chairs Evelyn and Ernest Rady, Gala Chairs Jerri-Ann and Gary Jacobs and Tammy and Louis Vener will host an evening of dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit JFS’s ongoing efforts to help people move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen the San Diego community.

Underwriting packages are available and can be purchased at jfssd.org/gala. Tickets are on sale now for $450.

Founded in 1918, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is one of San Diego’s most impactful nonprofit agencies – providing resources and support to over 70,000 people 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 move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.   

To get help, volunteer or support JFS, visit jfssd.org or call 858-637-3000.