MAKE THE WORLD BETTER! - Greater Miami Jewish Federation

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South Palm Beach
The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach’s most
philanthropic women were thanked in January at the
first Crown of Judah Luncheon for women. The luncheon
was held in the lovely home of Lisa Mintz, who
chaired the event. Clarice Pressner, who founded the
Crown of Judah Division 20 years ago, was honored.
Following in her mother-in-law’s footsteps, Wendy
Pressner served as women’s Major Gifts vice chair, playing
an integral role in planning the program. “It was
Clarice who introduced me to the world of Federation
and tzedakah; I was surprised and delighted when she
made me a Lion of Judah at an event eight years ago,”
said Wendy.
Alan Dershowitz, the distinguished Harvard Law
professor, appellate lawyer, defender of individual liberties
and Jewish causes, author and media personality,
was the special guest speaker. Women contributing at the
Crown of Judah level ($10,000 and higher) were invited.
The theme for this year is “reach higher” — encouraging
women to strive to reach the next Lion level of giving.
“This event has created so much excitement and is
just one of the many strategies that we are developing to
energize and increase the support of our women’s campaign,”
added Meryl Gallatin, Women’s Philanthropy
Campaign chair.
(L. to R.) South Palm Beach’s Clarice Pressner and Wendy Pressner
(L. to R.) Wendy Pressner, Meryl Gallatin, Anne Jacobson, Lisa Mintz
of South Palm Beach.
Southern Arizona
Lion of Judah women of the Jewish Federation of
Southern Arizona are one of the circles participating in
the Mitzvah Magic program, helping Jewish families in
need and also teaching that there are Jewish families
going through difficult times. Partnering with the Jewish
Family and Children Services enables Jewish families
with children to receive anonymous help. This opportunity
has been extended to families four times a year:
before school, High Holidays, Chanukah, and Passover.
Each circle received a profile of a family, with information
ranging from their basic needs to their clothing
sizes. The Lion of Judah circle “adopted” a family with
seven children. The project has been a huge success,
enabling Federation to demonstrate that it is a caring
community, while engaging individuals in hands-on
projects that make a real difference. It was a great opportunity
to partner with JFCS and synagogues while helping
Jewish families in need.
Mary Ellen Loebl, a Southern Arizona Lion and a Mitzvah Magic circle
captain, packs school supplies.