This post is sponsored by Jewish Silicon Valley.
Whether you attended an event at APJCC Los Gatos, your child attended Camp Shalom’s summer program, or you marched against Antisemitism in San Francisco, you likely interacted with Jewish Silicon Valley recently – perhaps without even realizing it.
Formed as a combined Federation and JCC entity, the organization’s long-term structure is designed to have a solid philanthropic foundation while maintaining a “finger-on-the-pulse” ability to adjust to the evolving needs of the Bay Area Jewish community. After years of planning and growth, the organization is making bold steps aimed at securing Jewish continuity, and fostering joyful Jewish pride.
“Jewish Silicon Valley aims to be a centralized, collaborative resource, advocating for Jewish continuity and pride across generations,” says Chief Executive Officer Daniel Klein. “Sometimes that looks like Jewish programs and events, or providing grants to other Jewish organizations. Other times it looks like lobbying in Sacramento and Washington, DC for important laws and funding from our government on behalf of our community.”
What is a part of that strategic plan?
1. Creating Safe, Accessible Spaces for Jewish Education & Experiences
A calendar conflict, not a fear for safety, should be the only reason someone opts out of Jewish communal experiences.
“We recognize that true engagement requires physical and emotional safety for our community,” says Klein, noting that recent reports mark the deadliest year for the Jewish community in decades.
Strengthening the bond with local law enforcement has been a long standing priority for Jewish Silicon Valley.
Once they have that trust and feel safe, community members are more likely to want to share those traditions with others – their own family, and perhaps spaces where they can invite their non-Jewish friends to experience our incredible culture.
2. Grassroots Initiatives, Collaborative Practices & Community Grants
“We recognize the amazing work of our community partners.” explains Daniel Klein, Chief Executive Officer. “ Elevating them brings strength to us all.”
Jewish Silicon Valley’s Community Grant Program distributed funds to over 25 Jewish organizations in FY26. While this positively impacted the work being done by these organizations, nearly 50% of the requests that came through had to go unfunded. To continue delivering the vital support our community relies on, it is critical that we secure the right funding.
3. Modernizing the Fight Against Antisemitism
The sad reality is that hatred toward Jews is not a historic villain of the past. The gap often lies in the fact that traditional antisemitism education often does not usually include the full picture of the past, leaving a critical hole in understanding modern expressions of hatred and today’s lived Jewish experience.
Jewish Silicon Valley is actively collaborating with Jewish teen leaders, school administrators, and experienced community members to connect our vital history with the living, breathing experience of Jews today.
Your Role in Our Future:
Donate today and help secure the necessary funding to fulfill the critical needs of our community. Donate at jvalley.org/philanthropy.