- Andrea Oster, left, and Elaine Galinson
SAN DIEGO (Press Release)–“We Are. We Can. We Do.” That was the theme on March 15 as nearly 100 women gathered to celebrate Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County at the Scripps Seaside Forum in La Jolla Shores. This year’s event was co-chaired by Jessica Effress and Laura Vainer.
“This event brings out very dedicated women who are making a crucial difference in the global Jewish community each and every day through generous contributions to the Women’s Annual Campaign,” said Effress. Vainer added that “to be able to give is the biggest treasure for a human. I am truly honored to be involved with Federation and know that I am making a difference.”
Guest speaker Rabbi Sharon Brous, named by Newsweek as “one of the leading rabbis in the country,” spoke about the Jewish response to disaster: “As Jews, our first response in these difficult times is with love; our second response is with justice and generosity. None of us have the ability to do everything, but all of us have the ability to do something.”
Elaine Galinson, a local volunteer, philanthropist, and community leader, was presented with the prestigious “Kipnis-Wilson Friedland Award” for her vision, commitment to philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism. The award is named for Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland, two best friends from Miami who founded the national Lion of Judah program in 1972. It has since become a vital expression of the ability of women to heal and change the world through philanthropic efforts. Over 17,000 women nationwide are Lions of Judah.
The award was presented by past award winner and immediate past Federation Board Chair Andrea Oster. Upon receiving the award, Galinson said, “Being Jewish is about giving back to our community, our country, and our world. In challenging times, we need to do even more.”
Women’s Campaign Chair Laura Tauber thanked the women for their generosity and stressed that “together we are able to feed the hungry, educate those with no opportunity to learn, support the disabled, and strengthen our children’s Jewish identity.”
The luncheon included a candle lighting ceremony in memory of women who had the vision and foresight to create a legacy gift to the Jewish Federation. Candles were lit in honor of Trude Gitler, Lillian Breitbard, Sophie Brody, and Hattie Brooks, all of blessed memory. Lion of Judah Endowments are perpetual gifts that allow women to help secure a strong and vibrant Jewish community for future generations.
Flowers, décor, and linen were generously donated by Blue Petal Events. Photography provided Photos by Solange.
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Preceding provided by the Jewish Federation of San Diego County