Women's Philanthropy
Leading Community, Inspiring Change
Women’s Philanthropy brings Jewish women together to strengthen Jewish life in Greater Washington and beyond. Across generations, we lead by example, turning Jewish values into lasting impact for our families and community.
How do you want to make an impact?
As Pomegranates and Lions of Judah, thousands of women are leading with strength, generosity, and purpose, shaping change today and for the future.
Lion of Judah
An international sisterhood 18,000 strong, including 500 in Greater Washington. Lions of Judah are women who give $5,000+ annually (or households giving $10,000+) to sustain our community through Federation’s Annual Campaign.
Step-Up Lions
Step-Up Lions begin their Lion journey with a gift of $1,800 and grow to $5,000+ over two to three years. From the start, they are recognized as full members, wearing the pin, joining local and national events, and finding strength in the pride.
Pomegranate
Inspired by the 613 seeds said to be in every fruit, Pomegranates reflect deep connection, tradition, and purpose. With annual gifts of $1,800–$4,999, members join a giving society of more than 400 women locally and 7,700 nationally.
The Lion Pin
Each Lion of Judah pin begins as gold. Over time, colored gems are added to mark higher levels of annual giving and deepening impact:
- Diamond – $5,000
- Ruby – $10,000
- Sapphire – $18,000
- Emerald – $25,000
- Double Chai, Amethyst Diamond – $36,000
- Zahav, Canary Diamond – $50,000
- Sabra, Cognac Diamond – $75,000
- PMC (Prime Minister’s Council), White Gold with Black Diamond – $100,000
- ILR (International Leadership Reunion), White Gold Diamond Pavé – $250,000+
Forever Lions
Forever Lions create a Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE) to ensure their annual $5,000+ gift continues in perpetuity, sustaining Jewish life for generations. More than 3,800 women worldwide have endowed their gifts, representing more than $620 million in assets.
Women's Philanthropy Leadership
Women’s Philanthropy Leadership is a group of committed leaders who partner with staff and community leadership to strengthen Women’s Philanthropy. Together, they inspire future donors and ensure that women’s voices and vision are central in Jewish communal life.
Abby Cherner, Vice President, Women’s Philanthropy
Sophie Buslik, Assistant Vice President, Women’s Philanthropy
Paula Shoyer, Ruby Lion Chair
Marianna Ashin, Lion of Judah Chair
Ilana Rothberg, Pomegranate Chair
Amy Jablin Forseter and Pamela Rosenberg Gottlieb, FRD Impact Co-Chairs
Signature Gatherings
Celebrate community and leadership through meaningful experiences rooted in Jewish values.
- L’Chaim: Our annual celebration of women’s leadership and generosity, honoring our collective impact.
- Community Gatherings: Conversations, service, and learning that connect women across Greater Washington.
- Chanukah Celebration: A joyful night of light, song, and giving.
