SAN DIEGO (March 1, 2023) – Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) announced today the addition of Dave Myers as its director of safety and security. Myers brings his extensive history in law enforcement to the role, where he will oversee security for all JFS programs and services.

Myers is a retired Sheriff’s Commander with a passion for protecting and providing assistance to communities in need. With over 35 years of experience working law enforcement, Myers has worked in almost every division of the Sheriff’s Department – working up the ranks from a patrol deputy, to Commander, to running for Sheriff in 2018.

“The safety of our community has always been a top priority,” said JFS CEO Michael Hopkins. “It is incredibly important to entrust that responsibility to someone who will protect the well-being of all who step foot on the JFS campus, while always meeting them with compassion and respect.”

Myers brings a history of dedication to the San Diego community. During his time in law enforcement, he established the Sheriff’s Department Youth Advisory Group, a space where the department could hear directly from the youth of our communities about their concerns and aspirations, as well as cultivate a culture of mutual respect and support. He has served as board president of the YES Program, a nonprofit organization in Barrio Logan that connects at risk youth with social services such as remedial education, work readiness skills and connections to employment opportunities. He also served for 15 years as an elected trustee on the San Diego County Employees’ Retirement Association, overseeing nearly $15 billion in defined pension assets for nearly 44,000 county of San Diego public employees and was twice elected board chairman.

In 1994, Myers was presented with the Medal for Lifesaving after stopping an individual from jumping off a bridge onto a busy roadway. He happened upon the person and was able to grab them from off the ledge and pull them back onto the roadway to safety. Among his impressive list of other awards and achievements, Myers was the recipient of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Excellence in Law Enforcement Research Gold Award in 2015. He has also authored several articles based on his experience in law enforcement, including topics relating to “lone wolf terrorism,” law enforcement in Israel, LGBTQ in law enforcement, and regional law enforcement collaboration.

As director of safety and security, Myers will align his personal dedication to serving the people of San Diego with the mission of the JFS, which is to help individuals and families move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.

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. .