Why Women’s Philanthropy?
Jody Caplan, Vice President, Community Engagement
In this issue of the Women’s Philanthropy e-newsletter we ask, “Why Women’s Philanthropy?” It’s a simple question that has generated a range of responses. We have spoken with new friends and seasoned veterans and hope you’ll enjoy hearing why they choose to become and stay involved with Women’s Philanthropy.
I thank my friend, Susan Gross, for bringing me to CHOICES in 2004 and for introducing me to Women’s Philanthropy. I had never seen so many Jewish women gathered in one place at one time! I wanted to know more about what could bring together such a diverse group of women at various ages and stages. And so, I began my journey to learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest and the work we are doing.
Over the years I have had the chance to visit partner agencies both here and in Israel and have had the privilege to meet the individuals who serve our community. They are capable, innovative, passionate, thoughtful, and dedicated to improving lives. And that’s why I make a gift to Women’s Philanthropy every year — because the needs are great and the work we are supporting makes a real difference to the people we touch.
While I certainly give my time to Women’s Philanthropy because I support the mission of the organization, it’s become so much more than that for me. In my roles as a Table Hostess, Women’s Awareness Day Committee member, Borinsky AM Chair, and Vice President of Young Women, I have found friends, mentors, and role models. I have had opportunities to learn and grow in ways I could not have anticipated. The hours I share with Women’s Philanthropy are satisfying, rewarding, and an awful lot of fun. I thank you, the women of Women’s Philanthropy, and the wonderful staff for keeping me engaged and for enriching my life. It is truly my pleasure.
What’s your story? Why do you support Women’s Philanthropy? We would love to hear from you. Please send your thoughts and reactions to me at caplan973@comcast.net.
President's Message
Joan Schiffer Levinson, President, Women’s Philanthropy
The Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest is comprised of amazing women, most of whom contribute their time, their talent, and their financial support to a wide range of valuable causes and worthy organizations. Givers give and doers do, and many women give and do. Yet the one thing I have learned as President of Women’s Philanthropy is that the women who make us strong, vibrant, and successful in our Federation work are driven by a common desire: to give of themselves to help others. While there are many causes that speak to each of us, most committed Federation leaders somehow manage to find the balance between their varied volunteer responsibilities and their professional and family lives. And although there are never enough hours in a day or days in a week to attend all the important meetings, programs, and events we care about, our involvement with other agencies and related causes often complements and brings greater perspective to our work for Women’s Philanthropy.
Giving and doing comes naturally to so many generous women in Greater MetroWest, many of whom first learned about tzedakah and tikkun olam while growing up, and have since passed on those values to their own children. Our more than 400 Lions of Judah represent an extraordinary level of commitment and dedication to helping those in need in our own community, in Israel, and across the globe. My own Lion story began more than 20 years ago when I was fortunate to have been given the opportunity to participate in my first national women’s mission to Israel. Inspired by a depth of passion and a power of collective effort that exceeded anything I had ever witnessed, I aspired to one day becoming a Lion of Judah. Reaching that goal 13 years later will always be a cherished highlight of my life.
I look forward to giving more and doing more with all of you in the coming year. From my family to yours, I wish you a happy, healthy, and peaceful 2015.
Joan