Kara J. is an accomplished development professional with extensive experience in fundraising and donor relations. Currently serving as the Director of Development at Jewish Family Service of San Diego since April 2023, Kara previously held the position of Major Gifts Officer at Promises2Kids, and spent nearly three years as Senior Manager of Annual Giving at Scripps Research. At the Jewish Federation of San Diego County, Kara advanced from Development Manager to Senior Development Manager, achieving notable successes such as a 5% increase in donor retention and upgrading 18% of the fundraising portfolio. Earlier career roles include Annual Giving Coordinator at Scripps Health, where Kara expanded the donor base by 118%, and as a Real Estate Agent/Office Manager at Westfield Realty, LLC, where Kara contributed significantly to sales. Kara started the career as a Licensed Personal Banker at Chase, focusing on revenue generation and client base development. Kara earned a Bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of California, Davis.
Jewish Family Service of San Diego
Founded in 1918, Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) is a people-centered, impact-driven organization working to build a stronger and healthier community where everyone can thrive. Every day, people turn to JFS because they need someone in their corner. We welcome everyone with dignity, compassion, and respect. We listen to understand and approach their challenges with their strengths, motivations, and unique circumstances in mind. When people first contact JFS, it’s often with an urgent need like food, transportation, or housing. Others seek assistance for an aging parent or a new network of support. We start by helping people access the critical resources they need to stabilize. Then, we work together to create a plan. With an approach rooted in supportive personal relationships and strong community partnerships, we deliver services that foster the health, skills, confidence, and resilience of every person we serve. Over time, community members build a foundation of economic stability, personal wellbeing, and community connection that empowers them to thrive. With great people, strong values, a focused mission, and a supportive community, there’s no limit to what we can do together. To learn how you can join us in Moving Forward Together, visit www.jfssd.org.