"Each of us has three names: the name we are given at birth, the name we are called, and most important, the name we make for ourselves."
-- Adapted from Midrash
Women’s Philanthropy
The Annual Women’s Campaign raises over 30% of the Annual Campaign that supports Jewish programs and social services in the Lehigh Valley, Israel and in isolated Jewish communities around the world. Over and over we are challenged when women ask, "We make a family gift. Why should I make a gift in my own name?"
There is much in our tradition that instructs us about women's giving. Judaism teaches us to love learning, to do good deeds, to practice tzedakah (righteous giving) and to be responsible for one another. Each of us is responsible to help in making the world a more perfect place.
Women have always influenced and guided their family's giving. In the traditional Jewish family, one never heard the expression, "My husband gives". The Jewish woman classically accepted it as her obligation - not as a woman, but as an individual in her own right to help her fellow Jews.
Today, women from all walks of life have discovered the satisfaction, fulfillment and powerful impact that comes from an individual commitment. Through personal involvement, women are effecting policy and influencing change in our community.
Whether your interests lie in education, fund-raising or community service, the Women's Division can enhance your awareness and understanding of your Jewish community and Jewish heritage…and offers you the chance to meet new people with similar interests.
The Women's Division welcomes you and invites you to participate in our activities. We have opportunities for involvement throughout the year.
For more information, contact Judy Diamondstein, Development Director.
Pomegranate Pin took seed in LV
For more than twenty years, the Pomegranate Pin has been the symbol for recognition of a woman’s commitment to the JFLV Annual Campaign. This special campaign recognition gift started in the Lehigh Valley. Now more than 110 Federations in thirty-five states throughout the country participate in the Pomegranate Pin Program. Today more than 5,000 women proudly wear this pin.
The pomegranate was chosen for the design of the beautiful sterling silver pin because according to Jewish tradition, the number of seeds in a pomegranate is 613, one for each of the 613 Mitzvot noted in the Torah.
Through each woman’s generous support, the Jewish Federation continues to be able to strengthen Jewish identity locally, support Jews in Israel, the former Soviet Union and worldwide, and meet the needs that are unique to the obligation of our Jewish community.
Women in the Lehigh Valley are awarded a Pomegranate Pin in recognition of a gift of $1,500 or more to the Annual Campaign. Annual campaign increases are rewarded with the addition of a ruby.
For more information about becoming part of the proud circle of women who wear the Pomegranate Pin, contact Judy Diamondstein, Development Director. or call the Federation office at 610-821-5500.
For information about the Pomegranate Pin national program, contact Joan Brody.