The California Welcoming Task Force is a binational coalition dedicated to re-envisioning how the U.S. can welcome people seeking asylum safely and expeditiously at our border by coordinating across sectors: humanitarian, legal, health, advocacy and communications. We must efficiently welcome people seeking refuge and ensure people have access to a fair and organized process if the U.S. is to continue championing itself as a defender of human rights. Jewish Family Service of San Diego makes a statement within this press release.

The California Commission on Aging has named Dana Toppel, JFS CEO Designate, as Vice Chair. Dana brings years of experience, wisdom, and leadership to support CCOA mission to support California’s older adult population.

“The Role of Compassion in Social Change,” this year’s luncheon hosted by the Center for Jewish Care, features Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz in conversation with Michael Hopkins, CEO of Jewish Family Service, about how acts of compassion can bridge divides, heal communities and drive systemic change.

The Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) Board of Directors announced today that current CEO Michael Hopkins, who has been at the helm for 13 years, will retire at the end of June 2025. The board has selected Dana Toppel to become the new CEO when Hopkins retires. Toppel is currently the COO and has been an integral part of the organization for over 15 years.

Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) and other local immigration advocacy groups reaffirm their commitment to supporting refugees and asylum-seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border. Michael Hopkins, CEO of JFS, emphasized the organization’s dedication to offering compassionate services, legal representation, and resettlement support to vulnerable families, ensuring that those seeking refuge are met with dignity and care.

Illegal border crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have recently dropped to their lowest levels in four years due to strengthened enforcement and new policies. In San Diego, Jewish Family Service (JFS) continues to play a crucial role in supporting migrants, providing shelter, food, medical care, and legal assistance. CEO Dana Toppel emphasizes the organization’s commitment to dignity and trauma-informed care as JFS assists migrants traveling through the area, helping many reunite with family across the U.S.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria highlights the impact of the city’s Safe Parking Program, operated by Jewish Family Service, which provides unsheltered residents with a safe place to park and access to essential services like job training, housing support, and mental health care. JFS is committed to meeting people where they are in their journey, empowering them with the tools, resources, and support they need to move forward and thrive.

Kayla Herrera has always dreamed of having a place her family could call home. That was until she ended up at the Rose Canyon Safe Parking lot, which is run by Jewish Family Services. Her family moved into one of the trailers. The lot is a 24-hour safe space for families experiencing homelessness. Those staying there are connected with programs and services to get them into permanent housing.