About Us
The KEN Jewish Community is a nonprofit organization where Latin Jewish Families share beliefs and traditions. Throughout a wide range of educational, social, performing arts and sports programs and activities, its Community Members strengthen their Jewish identity, build a connection with Israel, and maintain their culture.
History
During the early part of the 1980s a substantial number of Jewish families migrated to San Diego from Mexico City and Tijuana to meet economic and security needs. They settled mainly in Chula Vista and East County.
Eventually the social group grew beyond their gardens and the families decided to find a more permanent place to congregate. The community found a first home in Chula Vista and took steps to formalize its identity and operations. They created a board of directors, recruited members, and hired a Sheliach to oversee the youth program which has been the Ken's core from the beginning.
Since then, the Ken has grown in membership and has had multiple homes. In 2008, as a result of a fundraising campaign in collaboration with the San Diego Jewish Academy, we secured a space on the SDJA campus, unifying all Ken activities in one place.
In 2008 a new governance structure was approved at the general assembly and as a result, the Ken has continued expanding its portfolio of programs for the various ages and segments of its members.
The youth movement has been and will continue to be the heart and soul of the Ken Jewish Community.
Goals
- Teach our youth to be responsible members of their community, remembering their special responsibility as Latin American Jewish members of society.
- Instill the values of Tzedaka (charity) and Tikun Olam (Reparation of the world through action).
- Instill a peer-to-peer relationship between children and their adolescent leaders, fostering growth and learning in both.
- Create a support group for children and parents
- Help children of all ages acquire smart decision-making skills.
- Promote pride in Latin American Jewish identity.
- Participate in tangible projects that improve the lives of needy groups.
- Integrate our members with special needs into community activities and events.