May 11, 2010 / 27 Iyar 5770

Lion of Judah Israel is gearing up for its annual fundraising event.

On May 24, 2010, the Israel affiliate of the United Jewish Communities' division that recognizes generous women donors, will hold a festive event on the Namal in Tel Aviv.  All proceeds will be donated to Youth Futures, a Jewish Agency program that  helps youth at risk break out of the cycle of poverty and underachievement.

The event will feature the "Ma Kashur" comedy team and live music by "HaGroovatron" – An ensemble of eight unique musicians whose repertoire puts a new twist on old favorites.  Cost is between NIS 400 -600.

Lion of Judah Israel started over a decade ago when two women originally from Canada who had been involved in Lion of Judah Canada decided to make it happen in Israel, according to Rotem Weinner Shapira, Director of the Lion of Judah Foundation in Israel.

Lion of Judah in North America recognize donors who make a significant contribution to the Women's Division. These donors receive a special Lion of Judah pin.

The Israeli division asks women to give an NIS 6,000 minimum donation, which is used primarily to fund projects empowering girls and women around Israel.
 
"There is no such thing as a 'Women's Division' in Israel so this enables us to keep our connection with broader women's philanthropy, and also to be a part of a great group of women," said Chairman Dale Ophir.

Beyond that, Lion of Judah encourages Israeli women to follow the lead of Jewish communities in the Diaspora where financial contributions are the norm. 

"I feel that Israelis are wonderful at volunteering and in giving of their time, but they are less large when it comes to opening up their pocketbook," said Ophir. "There are many non-profits in Israel, but 75 percent of them raise most of their budget from abroad so one of the things we do is to raise awareness of the importance of giving not only your time, but if have capability, also your money."

"It’s a special experience for women to be part of this group because they not only are intimately involved in where their money goes, but they also have the chance to meet the women they have helped and see first hand how their assistance has changed lives," said Weinner Shapira.  

The group is always looking for new members to join their ever growing circle of women who care for those in need.

"I encourage people to be a part of this unique and amazing organization that connects Jewish women in Israel and around the world," said Weinner Shapira.

The group of nearly 100 women from Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv-area has raised over NIS 200,000 at past events. Help them to raise more money this year for Youth Futures by ordering you ticket now.
 
To register for the May 24th event or for more information contact Rotem Weinner Shapira at 052-6130137 or loji@spiritofisrael.org.il.