Jonah Kotzer, Director

I am third generation to Toronto’s Jewish community, but first to Holy Blossom and the Reform Jewish movement. Despite this relatively recent membership, Holy Blossom has shepherded my family and me through so many consequential life moments. Between my wife’s conversion, my wedding, and our child’s baby naming, the clergy and congregation at Holy Blossom have guided me through multiple monumental milestones.
My introduction to Reform Judaism was at URJ Camp George, where many summers taught me the values and practices of Reform Judaism. Later, this materialized into volunteerism with Holy Blossom’s Out of the Cold program, where I became more familiar with some of the congregants and volunteers here. Since joining, my family has regularly participated in YAD, Shabbat, and other holiday services.

My background is in not-for-profit systems and operations. Following my Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Toronto, I spent multiple years at Toronto’s Jewish Federation before transitioning to private consulting. In my role, I work with not-for-profits across North America and Africa, bolstering internal operations, analytics capacity, and systems designs to enhance organizational effectiveness and impact.

When not helping not-for-profits in my personal or professional life, I practise some of my other hobbies. These include experience as an amateur photographer (Published in the Globe and Mail and Vice Magazine), or playing the drums in my band. I am excited to be joining the board and assisting our congregation with some of the skills and experience I have developed throughout my personal and professional life.