Memories of Women’s Philanthropy
For some women, this year’s CHOICES celebration was their very first Women’s Philanthropy event, while for others it was one in a long line of Women's Philanthropy experiences. We asked CHOICES participants – both newcomers and long-time veterans – what were their favorite memories of Women's Philanthropy. Here are some of their answers:
“The [CHOICES] entertainer was quite impressive and quite a testament to the Jewish spirit being passed on to future generations.”
Sherri K. Lindenberg
“I loved the way the [CHOICES] entertainer tied in her Federation influence on her life and her performing.”
Alice Goldfarb
“Walking into an event, and being so warmly greeted by my new friends when I was relatively new to the state of New Jersey.”
Lori Freudenberger-Nelson
“My favorite memory was my first trip to Israel with a Women's Division Mission. In January, 1982, our group chose to go after being in a Leadership Development Workshop together for several months. Most of the women that went are still involved in leadership positions in our community and many went on to become Campaign Chairs and Women’s Department Presidents. The memory that stands out the best is going to the old city our first night…. We sang together and knew how lucky we were to be in that place at that time. Many lasting friendships were made on that mission.”
Lynda Wachsteter
“My favorite and most treasured memory is a Women’s Philanthropy mission to Israel (which evolved into a solidarity mission given the timing). This was a small group of women of all ages (30s - 80s). We may have been in different stages of our lives and have had different life experiences, however, on this trip we became one. We initially bonded around our passion for Israel and returned to NJ bonded as friends through our shared experiences on this mission – and have remained bonded ever since by our work through Jewish Federation locally, in Israel, and around the world.”
Mindy Goldberger
“One of my favorite memories is my first Women’s Philanthropy trip to Israel in 2005 for the B’Ahava Mission with 15 other amazing and generous women! All of these 15 have become some of the strongest Jewish leaders in our community, and many are now among my dearest friends. This Mission showed me our Federation at work, on the ground, and across the ocean. It gave me confidence in the Jewish Federation organization and the partnerships we make and rely on in our community here and worldwide. The B’Ahava mission inspired me to begin a Jewish leadership journey which I hope will never end!”
Rebecca Gold
“My favorite memory is when we took the Just Do It Missions 1 and 2 and watching those wonderful young women take on leadership roles, win the Cohn Awards, and make friendships that have lasted over 20 years.”
Ellen Goldner