Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Women’s Philanthropy Fall Kickoff Event

Charlotte Jewish News, December, 2024

By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist

Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Women’s Philanthropy recently launched its programming year with a morning focused on connection and community engagement. The “Inspiring Women Leaders” event welcomed new and long-standing participants, bringing together over 100 women eager to connect, learn, and be inspired by some of the community’s most influential leaders. Attendees enjoyed a lively brunch, shared stories, and learned about the remarkable work Women’s Philanthropy supports locally and globally.

The event began with a warm welcome from Judy August, Rachel Reifkind, and Karen Spiegler, who outlined the mission of Women’s Philanthropy and highlighted the impact of women’s collective contributions to the Jewish community. Renowned community leaders Bobbi Bernstein, Sandra Levine, and Emily Zimmern then took the stage for a panel discussion with Lisa Levinson as moderator. The panel shared their personal journeys, discussed their reasoning for founding Women’s Philanthropy, and spoke passionately about their commitment to our community. They were especially inspired by the number of young Jewish women in the audience, who they called on to represent the next generation of Women’s Philanthropy leaders.

Women’s Philanthropy is dedicated to creating a lasting impact, founded on the Jewish values of tzedakah (charity) and tikkun olam (repairing the world). With donations from women philanthropists comprising more than a third of the Federation’s Annual Campaign, they are actively strengthening the future of the Jewish community in greater Charlotte and beyond. Through events like this, Women’s Philanthropy provides meaningful avenues for all women to celebrate their Jewish identity and take active roles in addressing issues important to Jewish women today.

There are many ways to get involved with Women’s Philanthropy. Upcoming events for high-level giving members include the sold-out International Lion of Judah Conference in January, during which Emily Zimmern will be honored with the prestigious Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, and the Lion of Judah- Pomegranate Society Luncheon in February. Keep an eye out for even more upcoming events in 2025!

Women’s Philanthropy is honored to bring together women who are dedicated to philanthropy and thrive on the strength of their community connections. The Inspiring Women Leaders event perfectly embodied this mission, as each attendee left feeling more connected, engaged, and ready to make an impact.

Photo caption: From left to right: Lisa Levinson, Bobbi Bernstein, Sandra Levine, and Emily Zimmern at the Inspiring Women Leaders panel discussion