On December 13, 2025, the Valley of the Sun J welcomed more than 680 supporters, leaders, and friends to the historic Arizona Biltmore for its annual gala. The evening brought together a broad and diverse community to celebrate shared values, meaningful impact, and a collective commitment to service.
Recognizing Rachel and Jonathan Hoffer
At the heart of the evening was the presentation of the William S. Levine Family Community Excellence Award to Rachel and Jonathan Hoffer. The honor recognized their decades-long dedication to the Valley of the Sun J and their continued commitment to strengthening community locally, in Israel, and beyond.
Laughter That Brought the Room Together
The program featured a performance by comedian Elon Gold, a nationally recognized entertainer known for his intelligent, observational comedy and appearances on HBO, Netflix, and The Tonight Show.
Gold’s humor resonated deeply with the audience, creating moments of shared laughter that underscored the warmth and connection felt throughout the room. Musical performances by JB Project and Urban Electra further elevated the evening’s energy.
Advancing the Mission of the Valley of the Sun J
The Valley of the Sun J serves a broad community, with more than 40 percent of its members identifying as non-Jewish. Funds raised at the gala will directly support the J’s mission by providing financial assistance to families, expanding youth programming and after-school enrichment, offering adult education and wellness opportunities, and enhancing campus security to ensure the J remains a safe and welcoming space for all.
Leadership, Dedication, and Gratitude
The success of the 2025 Gala was made possible through the vision and leadership of co-chairs Sara Schneider and Ben Myers, the dedication of the Gala Committee, and the tireless efforts of the J’s staff and security team. Together, they helped create an evening that was not only memorable, but deeply meaningful.
Looking Ahead Together
As the Valley of the Sun J looks to the future, the 2025 Gala stands as a reminder of the power of community and the lasting impact that comes from coming together in support of shared values and a shared mission. Learn more at valleyofthesunj.org.
