The Center for Jewish Education: A Renewed Gathering Place

The Center for Jewish Education

“a mission to educate; ignite passion, curiosity, and pride; and illuminate our Jewish culture”

The Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara is creating a Jewish educational center with a mission to educate; ignite passion, curiosity, and pride; and illuminate our Jewish culture.

Jewish identity is deeply rooted in a value system that enables us to make a positive impact and excel in the world. The Torah commands us to work to better the world through Tzedakah (charity) and Gimelut Chasadim (acts of loving kindness). These two mainstays of Jewish identity have proven invaluable in integrating into the Santa Barbara community. Jewish philanthropy can be seen everywhere you look in this town, from the breathtaking artistry of the Granada Theater, to the modern design of UC Santa Barbara’s Gevirtz School of Education.

This was not always the case. We worked hard to break down barriers and forge the inroads necessary to integrate fully. Examples of this are right here in our own community. As late as the 1940s, Jews were not allowed to live or purchase property in Hope Ranch or become members of the Santa Barbara Club. We have lived and died through unimaginable experiences, but we are not defined by our tragedies. We are defined by the collective strength and perseverance that has enabled us to overcome unspeakable adversity and not just survive, but thrive, excel, and contribute beyond measure.

The Jewish Educational Center will pass on the incredible tales of this strength and instill pride in generations to come.

The Torah also commands us to teach our children, passing down the immense history and wisdom of our people L’dor V’dor (from generation to generation). This emphasis on education has cultivated a culture that deeply values critical thinking skills, the acquisition of knowledge, and academic excellence.

We invite you to join us in reviving and continuing these traditions and welcome your feedback along the way as we launch the Center for Jewish Education of Greater Santa Barbara.

Key Components of the Center for Jewish Education

Welcoming lobby Interactive museum of Jewish history modeled on the Tenement Museum

This museum will integrate and expand upon our current

Portraits of Survival exhibit Extensive film archive and library Conference and lecture room Portraits of Survival gallery and upstanders of World War II Classrooms for teaching Visiting lectures by Jewish scholars and luminaries

Including Nobel laureates and award-winning scholars for discovery in science, literature, and philosophy

Lectures on justice, civil rights, philosophy and the rule of law Jewish educational programming for every age demographic, covering a wide range of topics Jewish holiday programming curated for each target demographic and designed to be relatable and inspirational An in-house Jewish educator who will design and implement programming and events, and coordinate visiting lecturers

Sample Classes Offered

Moral Values in Action: The Jewish Legacy of Social Action and Philanthropy Living Your Life as a Work of Art: Cultural Contributions of Notable Jewish Figures Celebrating Life Through Sustenance: Cooking (and Feasting) Our Way Through Jewish History

Educational Spaces

Welcoming lobby reception Interactive museum Archive (film and library)