Yossi Jacobson
Rabbi and Owner of Kosher Deli
A) What qualities make the nominee deserving of the Z3 Bridge Builder Award?
Rabbi Jacobson is a man of reverence. As the owner of the only kosher deli in Iowa, he quietly and kindly interacts with all walks of life in the community. As an Ashkenazi Jewish woman who has traveled an interesting journey to Judaism, I went in to have a great meal and authentic Jewish cuisine. He took a moment to have a genuine conversation with me. I felt compelled to email the Rabbi that day and thank him. He emailed me back that night, which happened to be his birthday. He explained that he had asked G-d, on his birthday, that he pay special attention to the deli patrons that day. He also offered to put me on the mailing list for the Lubavitch of Iowa, which he also runs. That experience to me was a mitzvah and has helped cement my foundation of living a Jewish life.
B) In what ways has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to their work in bridging divides?
Rabbi Jacobson is active in the Iowa caucuses and when party nominees are in Des Moines holds Shabbat dinners for their Jewish staff members and other comforts of community. During COVID, he provided Seder to go.