The Guzman Family Center
Celebrating the Enduring Light of a People
Join us in restoring our history, for generations to come
In 1921, Phoenix’s Jewish community came together to build something it did not yet have: a permanent home. Together, its members created a place where families could gather as a community, worship, celebrate milestones and holidays, and educate their children. Now, more than a century later, the building is preparing to begin another chapter.
We’re proud to announce a foundational gift from Nestor and Susan Guzman to restore the approximately 5,000-sq-ft historic building (originally home to Congregation Beth Israel, Phoenix’s first permanent synagogue) and transform it into the Guzman Family Center: Celebrating the Enduring Light of a People.
As the historic anchor of the Cutler ✡ Plotkin Jewish Heritage Campus located at 122 E. Culver St. in downtown Phoenix, the restored building will celebrate Jewish life and culture while welcoming thousands of visitors each year to learn, gather, celebrate, and connect. The building’s history is unique, in that it has belonged to several communities over its 105-year history, including Congregation Beth Israel, the First Chinese Baptist Church and Iglesia Bautista Central. For generations, people of different faiths and cultures have created memories in this historic space, and through the restoration project, the building will once again become a place of gathering, joy, and education.
For Nestor and Susan Guzman, the decision to support the restoration is rooted in the belief that preserving history is ultimately about preserving the opportunity for future generations to create their own memories.
“Phoenix’s first permanent synagogue was born out of a shared community effort, and restoring it honors that original purpose at this pivotal moment,” said Nestor Guzman. “Susan and I are grateful for the opportunity to help preserve this important part of Phoenix and Jewish history. But more importantly, we hope this building will continue to be a place where people come together, where children learn, where families celebrate, and where the next generation feels connected to the generations that came before them.”
Plans for Restoration
The revitalization will preserve the character and history of the 1921 landmark while preparing it for a new generation, with Deutsch Architecture Group as the Architect of Record for the project.
Restoration plans for the site include:
Jewish Life Gallery
A dedicated gallery celebrating Jewish history in Arizona and the contributions of the Phoenix Jewish community.
Structural and Site Enhancements
Restoration and repair work to the roof, electrical infrastructure, and overall building structure to ensure long-term stability.
Renewed Historic Spaces
Restoring classic elements, from refinishing floors to revitalizing the stage, so future generations can gather and share space.
Improved Access and Security
An enhanced lobby, modernized entryways, and comprehensive security system integration.
The community is invited to take part in the restoration efforts, thanks to a $500,000 matching gift currently available to help complete the campaign. Contributions toward the project will be matched, doubling the impact of community support.
“This building has always been a place for connection and community. Its identity has evolved, but its purpose has remained steadfast,” said Talli Dippold, President and CEO of the Arizona Jewish Historical Society. “Thousands of visitors will experience this building every year. They will not simply learn about history – they will become part of it.”
The restoration comes at a significant moment for the Arizona Jewish Historical Society. Work on the historic building is expected to begin in September 2026 and conclude in September 2027, coinciding with the opening of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center on the same campus. Together, the projects will create a place dedicated to remembering the past and educating, inspiring, and bringing people together for generations to come.
How You Can Help
Thanks to a generous $500,000 matching gift, your impact is doubled. Through your support, you can ensure future generations have a place to connect, gather, and celebrate Jewish joy.