JWest Foundation · 2026 Annual Project Report

A Year of Milestones

Roadburg Campus · Diamond Jewish Community Centre

Message from the Chair

Dear Friends,

This has been an important year for JWest. After years of planning, discussion, and careful preparation, we have reached the point where the work of so many people is beginning to take shape.

For me, one of the most meaningful aspects of this year has been seeing the continued commitment of our community. Many of you have supported JWest from its earliest stages, through the challenges and decisions that come with a project of this scale. Your generosity, patience, and confidence in the project have helped us reach this point, and I am deeply grateful.

As we move into construction, there is still important work ahead. We have a responsibility to honour your trust, make thoughtful decisions, and deliver a campus that will serve our community well for generations.

Thank you for your continued support and for everything you have done to bring JWest to this stage.

Alex Cristall Chair, JWest Foundation
Alex Cristall, Chair of JWest Foundation
Alex Cristall
Portrait Photograph
March 12 & June 2, 2026

Land Transfer

On March 12, members of the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver unanimously approved the transfer of the 3.3-acre property at 950 West 41st Avenue to the JWest Foundation.

The transfer was completed on June 2, securing the land for the future Roadburg Campus, home to the Diamond Jewish Community Centre and the future King David High School.

This milestone followed extensive collaboration to establish the legal and governance framework for the campus and enabled the next stages of development.

Representatives at the land transfer signing
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Land transfer signing ceremony
July 16, 2026

Rezoning Approval

Vancouver City Council approved JWest's rezoning application, clearing a major regulatory milestone for the Roadburg Campus.

The approval followed work with City staff to address planning requirements for the Diamond Jewish Community Centre, future King David High School, and residential component of the campus.

The decision established the land-use framework for the full campus, including residential development intended to support its long-term financial sustainability. The team could then advance remaining approvals and construction preparations.

Roadburg Campus architectural rendering
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Roadburg Campus planning and design
September 14, 2026

Groundbreaking Ceremony

JWest celebrated its groundbreaking ceremony with donors, community leaders, project partners, and representatives from all three levels of government.

The ceremony also marked the public announcement of the Roadburg Campus and Diamond Jewish Community Centre, recognizing the longstanding leadership and generosity of the Roadburg and Diamond families.

The groundbreaking marked the first visible step toward construction of the new Diamond Jewish Community Centre and brought together those who have supported JWest throughout its development.

Coverage by Global News, CTV News, CBC Radio, and the Jewish Independent introduced the project to audiences beyond the Jewish community.

JWest groundbreaking ceremony
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Groundbreaking ceremony · September 14, 2026
October 2026

Development Permit Approval

The City of Vancouver approved the Development Permit for the Diamond Jewish Community Centre.

The approval followed coordination among the JWest development team, architects, consultants, and City staff to finalize the design and address municipal development requirements.

JWest also completed construction drawings and submitted the first-stage Building Permit application for shoring and excavation. Urban One, the project's Construction Manager, continued trade tendering and cost reviews. The mechanical tender was reissued in October, with final pricing and construction authorizations still to be confirmed.

Diamond Jewish Community Centre rendering
Insert Diamond Jewish Community Centre architectural rendering
Diamond Jewish Community Centre
Building Together

The Community Campaign

Over four years, the campaign has engaged 184 donors, including 117 new donors. Printed campaign materials, volunteer outreach, digital communications, and partnerships with community organizations have expanded participation across giving levels.

$9M
Raised toward the $18M Community Campaign goal
184
Donors over four years
117
New donors
50% of the $18M goal · Campaign ongoing
The Heart of JWest

The people behind every gift.

Through the Why I Give series, donors shared their connections to Jewish community life and what inspired them to support JWest. Their stories put faces and personal experiences alongside the campaign's fundraising results.

JWest donor portrait
Donor portrait 1

[Donor name]
[Approved quotation from Why I Give]

JWest donor portrait
Donor portrait 2

[Donor name]
[Approved quotation from Why I Give]

JWest donor portrait
Donor portrait 3

[Donor name]
[Approved quotation from Why I Give]

Corporate and Institutional Support

Partners in the Project

Corporate and institutional supporters have contributed alongside individual and family donors. Their participation spans financial services, architecture, construction, legal services, insurance, and community philanthropy.

BMO RBC Foundation TD CIBC Acton Ostry Architects Urban One Jewish Community Foundation HUB International Clark Wilson

Supporter names are presented for recognition across the project; this list does not imply that every commitment was made in 2026. Confirm approved names and recognition before publishing.

In the News

Groundbreaking Coverage

Looking Ahead

The work continues.

Next steps include completing outstanding permitting and procurement, confirming construction costs and authorizations, and continuing the Community Campaign toward its $18 million goal.

Thank you to the donors, volunteers, community organizations, and partners whose continued support makes this work possible.