Where Jewish women connect, lead,
and make a lasting impact.
Where Jewish women connect, lead, and make a lasting impact.
2026 Co-Chairs:
Kaori Barvin and Katherine Zinger
Women’s Philanthropy is a vibrant and diverse community of Jewish women from across the Puget Sound, where we connect, inspire, and empower each other to make a meaningful impact in Seattle. Mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, and professionals. We are change-makers and community-shapers, committed to making a difference through philanthropy, leadership, and action.
We offer a welcoming space for all women to connect with Jewish values, celebrate our traditions, and create a brighter future for our community – here and around the world. At every stage of life and career, we find connection and fulfillment in building a vibrant and inclusive community.
Our Women’s Philanthropy Focus
Fostering Community
We create a welcoming and inclusive environment where women can connect with one another, learn together, and build lasting relationships.
Inspiring Philanthropy
We harness the power of collective giving to drive meaningful change, ensuring a strong, vibrant Jewish future through generosity and impact-driven investment.
Empowering Leadership
We cultivate leadership skills and provide platforms for women to become decision-makers and advocates for the Jewish community.
Honoring Jewish Values
We are guided by the principles of tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and ahavat Yisrael (love of Israel and the Jewish people).
Lion of Judah
A global network of dynamic philanthropists making a profound impact.
The Lion is a symbol of today’s Jewish Woman’s strength, a symbol of her caring about the organized Jewish world and a symbol of her financial commitment of at least $5,000 to the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle’s Annual Campaign.
2027 International Lion of Judah Conference
February 28 – March 2, 2027 | Austin, Texas
Thousands of philanthropic Jewish women will gather in the heart of Texas to celebrate who we are and deepen our commitment to building flourishing Jewish communities.
Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award
The Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award is a national honor presented every two years by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). Each participating Jewish Federation selects one exceptional local Lion of Judah whose philanthropy, volunteerism, and lifelong commitment to the Jewish community exemplify the highest standards of leadership and service. Established in 2004 in honor of Lion of Judah co-founders Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland, the award recognizes women whose generosity and dedication have made a lasting impact in their local communities, in Israel, and around the world. Honorees from across North America are celebrated together at the biennial International Lion of Judah Conference as “women of valor” who embody the values of tzedakah, tikkun olam, and service to the Jewish people.
We are proud to recognize Lisa Brashem as Seattle’s 2026-2027 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award recipient and celebrate her extraordinary leadership, generosity, and commitment to building a vibrant Jewish future.
Get Involved
Join our powerful network of women making a difference.
Join special events and programs that deepen your connection to Jewish life.
Develop your leadership skills, inspire others by mentoring, and learn from fellow women leaders.
Build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who share your passion for community and philanthropy.
Experience hands-on volunteer opportunities.
Create a collective force that is shaping the future of Seattle’s Jewish community.
Questions?
We invite you to connect with us and learn more about how you can be part of Women’s Philanthropy.
Contact Marika Jaffe, Associate Director of Development at marikaj@jewishinseattle.org.