Women’s Philanthropy

How we make an impact

Women philanthropists are the change-makers and community-shapers of the world. We are sisters and daughters, mothers and friends, compassionate and committed women at every stage of life and career.

Inspired and guided by our tradition of Tzedakah (righteousness/charity) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), JewishColumbus’ Women’s Philanthropy is dedicated to the continuity, connectivity and thriving future of our Columbus Jewish community, Israel and the Jewish people around the world.

Women’s Philanthropy is about more than just the Annual Campaign. It’s about deeply knowing and understanding the breadth of issues facing our community and rolling up our sleeves to help. It’s about educating, inspiring and empowering women of all ages in our community. It’s about nurturing leadership and fostering a commitment to philanthropy. It’s about having an impact. Women’s Philanthropy’s four focus pillars aim to meet the needs of our community through engagement, action, and philanthropy.

• Engagement
  • We serve as a personal and communal gateway to the community. We strive to welcome new people to our community and engage those who have never been active. We are currently working on ways to volunteer and welcome community members of all ages into Columbus.

• Wellness
  • We have a unique opportunity to share information and develop programs that address the interests and concerns of our community, including social, emotional, and physical wellness. 

• Community Service
  • We work together with our partner agencies on community wide service projects that put our Jewish values to action– making a difference through meaningful volunteer opportunities. We continue to collaborate with JFS for opportunities.

• Giving Societies
  • Giving back unites our sisterhood, and as a multigeneration group, we offer diverse giving societies to meet you where you are in your philanthropic journey. The various societies are:

• • • Pearl Society, $180+
    • Pomegranate, $1,800+
    • Lion of Judah, $5,000+

Upcoming Women’s Philanthropy Events

September 5 – Jewish Matchmaking with Aleeza Ben Shalom

September 13 – Gramercy Books Owner Linda Kass Launches Third Historical Novel, BESSIE! In Conversation with Noted Writer Lee Martin!

Help a Local Family!

Join Women’s Philanthropy for a Back to School (and diaper drive) to help those less fortunate. We will be collecting specific supplies and diaper sizes, please click below for the Amazon wish list. If easier, drop off in the lobby of our office.

Hosted by:

Help a Refugee Today!

Build a welcoming bath kit with items from the Jewish Community Center’s Amazon wishlist.
Click here for the wishlist.

Want to participate but don’t want to shop? Donate $90 to purchase a bath kit.

Hosted in partnership with

Stay Up to Date

Sign up for our JewishColumbus Women’s Philanthropy emails to learn more about what we are doing in the community!

Women’s Philanthropy Board

Women’s Philanthropy Co-Chairs – Jane Bodner, Sherry Werman

Community Service – Caroline Cohn

Engagement – Irina Katon, Leah Savage

Giving Society – Joyce Hallet, Clemy Keidan

Wellness – Dana Lenobel, Susan Steinman