About Women's Philanthropy
A women’s personal journey to giving can begin from many different avenues,
but all roads lead to the same destination: Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy.
For some, the journey started with a decision to make financial sacrifices, knowing there were others in the world that were needy. For others, it was a need to connect and network with other Jewish families at a time when Palm Beach County was not the fourth largest Jewish community in the United States. For some, a feeling of religious affiliation or a concern for Israel didn’t become important until later on in life. And, for others, it was a way to meet like-minded people who want to find a place to give back and become more involved.
Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy is the location for all these commitments, and more. It is a place where women of all interests and levels of involvement can make a difference in the lives of so many. It is a place where the traditions and heritage of the past meets the current needs and concerns of the Jewish people and the critically important planning for the future of the community. It is a place for new friendships and connections to be made.
“I selected Federation as my initial charitable focus, feeling it is both the wheel and pivotal point of Jewish life here in Palm Beach County,” said Linda Cortell Benjamin, 2011, past president of Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy. “I have had the opportunity to witness our Federation at work, assisting our partner agencies as they reach out to support needs and enhance lives of citizens in Palm Beach County, our Israeli brethren and Jewry worldwide. The Federation’s energy and success motivates me.”
“Women’s Philanthropy, at its core, is a sisterhood of caring, nurturing and involved women that is a place not only to raise funds, but a place to engage women to develop programs, educate each other and take action on a number of social issues that have impact,” said Amy Jonas, Women’s Philanthropy Campaign chair, 2012.
In Palm Beach County, women have made a notable difference in the Jewish community – from those that have served in leadership positions at all levels of Federation (five serving in the office of Federation president) to bringing forth initiatives and programs that have enhanced the community. Almost half of Federation’s Annual Campaign – the funds that provide for the growing and changing needs of the local and global Jewish community – come from women’s gifts.
During the past couple of years, Women’s Philanthropy has evolved to reach out to women when and where it is convenient for them – on the weekends, around lunchtime and in their neighborhoods, for example. Its doors are open to be inclusive and offer a variety of programming, making certain that Jewish women who want to make a difference have a number of ways to be involved.
Women’s Philanthropy can be many things to different women. At its heart, it is a way that a woman can speak in her own voice, and share her time and talents in a growing chorus of like-minded women. The commitment to making the world a better place is what’s crucial; the time and the financial resources you can provide is at your discretion.
“You give what you can give, but your time is also needed and appreciated,” said Vivian Lieberman, Women’s Philanthropy president, 2012. “Getting involved is important because we all live in this community and we need to support our issues. We need to give back in a meaningful way.”
Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy invites women to join our efforts of building community together. There are many ways women can fulfill their philanthropic interests in educational and engaging ways, including exclusive community and outreach events, and seminars with special guest speakers. There are also many giving levels, which are demonstrated through beautiful jewelry that signify a woman's commitment to the Jewish community.
Call (561) 242-6608 for more information or click here to email.
