Media Contact:
Sandy Young / Ashley Bendas, J. Walcher Communications
[email protected] / [email protected], 619-295-7140

SAN DIEGO (Dec. 1, 2022) – Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) has named Sunni Robertson director of volunteer engagement. With more than 17 years serving the San Diego community in the nonprofit sector, Robertson’s experience will guide JFS’s outreach to potential volunteers of all ages and backgrounds to help the nonprofit in providing resources and support to over 70,000 people every year.

Before joining JFS, Robertson worked at the San Diego Zoo in many roles, most recently as guest services supervisor in the volunteer services department, where she led logistical support and trained 750 volunteers on customer service and wildlife conservation. Robertson also served as education supervisor and lead educator guide, creating and executing programming, conducting tours and presenting on-site and at local schools. Robertson earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Linfield College.

“We always say that volunteers are the heart of Jewish Family Service, because they make our vital humanitarian work possible with their passion, time and energy,” said JFS CEO Michael Hopkins. “Sunni’s longtime dedication to and experience will greatly help JFS continue to build a volunteer base that uplifts the community. We’re so grateful for all our volunteers – they’re helping hands, day makers and life changers.”

JFS has approximately 600 active volunteers in San Diego County that deliver meals to families and individuals experiencing food insecurity, support and mentor refugee and immigrant families, help older adults maintain their independence, support youth and families, assist in the office and share their skills and talents on a regular basis. From July 2021 to June 2022, volunteers helped:

• Distribute 616,462 meals through the Hand Up Food Pantry’s distributions and The Corner Market
• Support 39,129 asylum-seekers with shelter, meals, travel assistance, medical screenings and legal counsel
• Deliver 647,034 nutritious meals to isolated older adults across San Diego
• Provide 33,867 hours of impactful work that helped move people forward

“I find volunteers to be some of the most generous, committed and passionate people I have ever known,” said Robertson. “Giving freely of your time is the ultimate gift, and I am truly thankful that so many have chosen to give their precious time to JFS and our community.”

For more information, to 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 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.

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