Departures is KCET's hyper-local web documentary, community engagement tool and digital literacy program about the cultural history of Los Angeles' neighborhoods.

PACIFIC JEWISH CENTER

Pacific Jewish Center
Pacific Jewish Center
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1/5: Migrating to Venice
2/5: Rediscovering Roots
3/5: Israel Levin Center
4/5: A Place of Contrast
5/5: Eruv

Originating in Boyle Heights, the large Jewish community in Venice took root in the early twentieth century, first drawn to the amusement piers. After the decline of the parks, the younger generations in the community moved to seek greater opportunities, while the older community stayed in Venice. The Pacific Jewish Center struggled as Jewish establishments and synagogues closed, and as the Venice boardwalk transformed from a broken beach community into a bustling strip, the center became the last synagogue in Venice.

One side of the center is the Phoenix House, a drug rehabilitation center, and on the other a novelty shop called "Unruly". Despite the diverse mix, young Rabbi Fink remains stoic, and with the veracity of a salesman continues to encourage and invite newcomers, eager to maintain and increase the ever fading Jewish community in Venice.

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Funders and Partners

Support for the Departures' Venice installment is provided through these sponsors and local community partners, as well as from viewers like you.

Click here to see all sponsors and community partners for Departures.

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