Jewish Women’s Foundation

The Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County (JWF) is a philanthropic community of women, committed to expanding and improving opportunities and choices in all aspects of the lives of Jewish women and children’s lives. Through effective and strategic grant making, the Foundation enables and encourages our members to be advocates, leaders and agents of change. To learn more about JWF, flip through our program booklet by clicking here.

ENGAGE

Embracing both a “Jewish” and “gender” lens in our grant making, JWF Trustees direct funds to programs that promote economic security, legal reform, education, leadership development, health, and abuse prevention. Our model fosters strategic grant making for cutting-edge projects in the South Palm Beach County area, Israel and throughout the world.

ENVISION

Our members join JWF with varied backgrounds and experience, yet all share a strong desire for women to grow, learn and experience equality. Launched in 2003 with a few women around a dining room table, JWF has grown from this small group of visionary women into a strong group of over 100 dynamic trustees improving the lives of Jewish women and children throughout the world.

EMPOWER

JWF is an incubator for informed Jewish philanthropists and leaders. Trustees have the unique opportunity to become empowered as funders, studying pressing issues that impact women and children, taking a hands-on approach to grant making, and learning how to use philanthropy to effect social change.

Facts:

  • Almost 100 Trustees and growing
  • Over $1.95 million granted to date
  • Over 192 grants allocated
  • Over 62 organizations severed locally and in Israel
  • Over 185,000 lives impacted

CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

What started out as a small group of committed donors discussing advocacy issues for women and children in 2003 has grown into a dynamic group of passionate, caring and vocal trustees. From its inception through today, our JWF has granted more than $1.95 Million to over 62 organizations for programs that improve the lives of Jewish women and children in South Palm Beach County, in Israel and around the world. As a result of this work, over 185,000 lives have been impacted.

We are dedicated to:

  • Securing Jewish women’s health and safety
  • Helping to nurture strong and self-assured Jewish children
  • Strengthening Jewish women’s economic power
  • Enhancing educational and leadership opportunities for women and children

On a mission of empowerment.

Through membership contributions, Trustees pool their philanthropic resources together to more effectively address the most pressing issues facing Jewish women and children. We believe that, with a collective voice and focused action, we can help bring about positive change that will have lasting effects well into the future.

How JWF Operates

JWF has a diverse membership of more than 100 trustees, whose generous contributions are pooled into an endowed fund. Unlike many other foundations, JWF encourages its members to take a hands-on approach when allocating their philanthropic dollars. JWF Trustees can get involved in a variety of ways:

  • Serve on committees
  • Screen and read grant proposals
  • Research organizations
  • Present grant proposals to Trustees
  • Conduct site visits
  • Mentor other Trustees
  • Vote on projects that will have the most impact
  • Build lasting friendships based on shared values

In addition to grant-making, JWF provides ongoing learning opportunities, helping women keep up with current issues and trends impacting Jewish women and children, as well as current practices in philanthropy.

JWF members come from varied backgrounds, yet all share a strong desire to help empower Jewish women and children in need. If you’re a woman of action, we invite you to join this powerful cause. Join us today.


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

Calling Jewish women of action, heart— and chutzpah

We are always looking for more caring, enthusiastic Jewish women to join the cause. You are invited to become a Trustee or assume a leadership role in any aspect of the Foundation. Not only will you be doing so much good for others, you’ll have the chance to work with bright, like-minded women on a mission of social change. We debate, we are vocal, we exchange ideas and celebrate outcomes. It is hands-on philanthropy and it is deeply rewarding to say the least.

What’s your interest?

JWF provides opportunities on committees of all kinds. Choose one that matches your skills, experience or sparks a desire to learn. They include:

  • Leadership development
  • Special events
  • Grant subcommittees
  • Membership outreach
  • Mentorship
  • Trustee education
  • Research
  • Grant proposal presentations
  • Marketing

Benefits of participation:

  • Develop effective, thoughtful and strategic grant-making skills
  • Enjoy the presence of other women who come together over compelling issues
  • Learn about philanthropy within the context of Jewish tradition
  • Build lasting friendships with active women who share the same values

LEVELS OF PARTICIPATION

Become a Trustee Today

You can begin your membership in the Jewish Women’s Foundation with a tax-deductible, minimum contribution of $2,000 per year for five years (totaling $10,000), which goes directly to the grants you will be voting on. This investment ensures your membership on the JWF Board of Trustees for all five years. All Trustees have an equal vote and equal opportunities for participation. In fact, you can choose how much involvement you wish to have in the grant process— whether it’s helping to select which programs to fund (and at which amounts to fund them), or it’s simply supporting your sister Trustees’ decisions. Your level of participation is all up to you.

Young Woman Trustee (under age 40)

This membership level is for women under the age of 40. There is a minimum $5,000 commitment with an option to pay $1,000 per year over 5 years; and up to the full $5,000 at one time. A suggested minimum annual gift of $180 to JFSPBC Annual Campaign is payable at the same time. At the completion of 5 years, eligible Young Woman Trustees may renew their membership at a minimum of $1,000 per calendar year.

Become a Trustee for Life

Legacy Trustee Levels:

Creating a JWF Endowment is a demonstration of your Jewish values and your deep commitment to Jewish women and children for generations to come.

Sustaining Trustee: With a planned gift or endowment of $50,000, you can establish a permanent Jewish Women’s Foundation Endowment and promote your values. You will be recognized as a JWF Sustaining Trustee and your gift, once realized, will fund JWF grants in perpetuity.

Naming Trustee: With a planned gift or endowment of $100,000 and area of granting can be named for the donor. You will be recognized as a JWF Naming Trustee and your gift, once realized, will fund JWF grants in perpetuity.

Intergenerational Trustee: With a planned gift or endowment of $100,000 you can establish a gift for yourself, daughters, daughters-in-law, granddaughters or nieces, You will be recognized as a JWF Intergenerational Trustee and your gift, once realized, will fund JWF grants in perpetuity. Can you imagine a more special or profound legacy to leave a woman you love? She’ll have the chance to improve the lives of Jewish women and children well into the future. Mazel Tov!

Which membership level is right for you?

Complete our Trustee Member Form


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

JWF Trustees

JWF CHAIR: AMY ROSENBERG • FOUNDING CHAIR: ROXANE FRECHIE LIPTON

Trustees:

Elaine Abrams

Paula Allen

Jeanette Antokal

Miriam Atzmon

Gloria Baker (z’l) ◆

Susan Benenson

Nancy Benson

Fanny Berg

Lori Berman ◆

Esther Brahver

Hinda Bramnick

Ruth Brause

Florence Brody ◆

Gail Burack

Linda Caine

Robbie Caplan

Caryn Clayman ◆●

Francine Cole (z’l) ◆

Harriet Cook

Joyce Croft

Marlene Cross

Marion Unger Davis

Marilyn Davis

Marny Dixon

Dana Egert

Sherry Endelson ◆

Freda Epstein ◆

Arlene Ettinger

Barbara Feingold ◆●

Miriam Feldman

Phyllis Feldman

Jeanne Fibus

Gwenn Drucker-Flait

Jill Fogelman

Marlene Freeman

Sandi Fried

Audrey Friedner

Sheila Fuente ◆●

Rani Garfinkle ◆

Suzy Anand Garfinkle ◆

Doris Gidding ◆●

Gloria Gildin

Roberta Goldstein

Joan Gordon

Roberta Greenberg

Helen Gruber

Susan Guttman ◆●

Alana Hoch

Aimee Kaye Jackness

Anne Jacobson

Melanie Jaffe

Laurie Kamhi

Melanie Kaminetsky ◆

Nancy Kaye

Alice Kemper 

Isobel Kemper (z’l)

Fern Kiejdan

Harriet R. Kimball

Maxine King

Andrea Kline ◆

Ellen Koppelman

Stacy Krachman

Susan Krause

Merle Krimsky ◆

Judy Levis Krug ◆

Wendy Kupfer ◆

Dr. Ruth Legow ◆●

Margery Libin

Sandra Lippy ◆

Roxane Frechie Lipton ◆●

Laura Litinsky ◆

Sheryl Lucas

Ilene Mackler

Mady Millman

Amy Morgan

Merry Morris ◆

Andrea Orleans

Natalie Packer

Natalie Pelavin ◆

Jeri Poller ◆

Mara Reuben ◆

Gail Rockoff

Amy Rosenberg

Barbara Rosenberg

Lisa Rosenkrantz

Barbara Rosuck

Lauri Roth

Randee Rubenstein

Jeanie Sacks

Rivka Sadja

Janet Sahr

Bea Samit

Elinor Sands

Ellen R. Sarnoff (z’l) ◆

Gail Asarch Satovsky ◆

Judi Schuman

Bobbi Schlussel

Dorothy Seaman (z’l) ◆

Geri Sedler

Rosalyn Silver

Rose Smith

Dr. Carol Smokler ◆

Dani Sonnenblick (z’l) ◆

Cheryl Spielman

Barbara Stein

Shirley Stein

Fran Steinberg

Sandra Stella

Phyllis Wachtel ◆

Caren Weinberg ◆

Nancy Weingard

Donna Weiss ◆

Marilyn Weissglass

Touran Weissman

Judy Wertheim

Cynthia White

Carol Winig ◆

Madeline Wolfson

Etta Gross Zimmerman


Founding Trustee: ♦︎

Life Trustee: ●

Sustaining or Legacy Trustee: ✼

*As of June 26, 2024

JWF Orientation

December 4 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

JWF Trustee Mix & Mingle

January 8, 2025 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

JWF Grant Meeting #1

January 22, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

JWF Grant Meeting #2

January 28, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

JWF Grant Meeting #3 Israel

February 3, 2025 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

JWF Campus Tour and Lunch

February 4, 2025 @ 9:30 am - 1:00 pm

JWF Grant Meeting #4

February 13, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

JWF Grant Meeting #5 – Israel

February 24, 2025 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

JWF Final Grant Meeting #6

March 6, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

JWF Granting Wishes

March 21, 2025 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

JWF Orientation

April 7, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

JWF Year End Review

May 7, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

2025 Granting Wishes Event

Friday, March 21, 2025

Location: Temple Beth El


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

The Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County has identified five main areas that funding is needed to improve the lives of Jewish women and children.

Grant prospects are invited to submit proposals that relate to the following targeted areas, as well as any other areas of need that affect Jewish women and children.

• Financial Security/Safety Net Services

Programs for consideration may include, but are not limited to:

  • Economic Empowerment
  • Financial Literacy
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Professional Development
  • Business Development
  • Micro-Enterprise

• Health Education and Prevention

Programs related to protecting, promoting and educating about health for consideration may include, but are not limited to:

  • Health Education
  • Screening and Prevention Programs
  • Mental Health and Wellness
  • Domestic Violence
  • Violence Against Women

• Education/Leadership Development

Programs for consideration may include, but are not limited to:

  • Leadership Development
  • Advocacy and Negotiation
  • Teen Mentoring
  • Jewish Engagement
  • Community Empowerment
  • Service-Learning
  • Anti-Semitism

CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

GRANTS AWARDED BY JEWISH WOMEN’S FOUNDATION OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY

Through thorough review and effective collaboration, JWF funds programs and projects that work to improve the status of Jewish women and children. Most significantly, these programs proactively address the source of the varied challenges these groups face. We have funded important educational initiatives for teenage girls in South Palm Beach County, deepening their knowledge of Judaism and Jewish culture while helping them integrate Jewish values into their lives. In Israel, we have helped abused girls break the cycle of domestic violence and we supported а training program giving immigrant Ethiopian women the opportunity to enter the workforce and support their families.

FUNDING 2024-25: $175,200

Israel Emergency Relief Fund – $22,200
Phase 1

Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center (Levis JCC) – Schwedelson Special Needs Department – $10,000
Camp Kavod CITs with Special Needs Program

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services Inc – $11,500
CommunityCARE: Rapid Support & Resilience Program

Hillel of Broward & Palm Beach – $10,000
Women’s Shabbaton

JARC Florida – $10,000
Ability Garden Enrichment Program

PJ Library; Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – $5,000
PJ Our Way and Grandparent Initiative

Chai Lifeline – $10,000
Mother’s Support Program

Liumi Inc – $5,000
Women’s Wellness in the Garden

March of the Living, Southern Region, USA; Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – $20,000
From March To Miriam (FMTM)

The Rose Grows – $9,000
Be The First To Say Hello

Southern NCSY – $5,000
Israel Advocacy and Education

inSIGHT Through Education, Inc. – $10,000
Hate Ends Now – Cattle Car Exhibit

Adopt-A-Safta – $10,000
Adopt-A-Safta

Koby Mandell Foundation – $10,000
Young Women Empowerment Program

Magen for Jewish Communities – $10,000
Premarital Education Project for Survivors of Sexual Abuse

La’Ofek – $17,500
Hope for the Future Achotenu-Nachshonim – Academic Medical/Para-Medical Training Program for Ethiopian-Israeli Women

FUNDING 2023: $138,000

March of the Living – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Jewish Women’s Foundation – $18,000
Rapid Response Fund

RALES JFS – $12,500
Fresh Start Expansion

LEVIS JCC SPECIAL NEEDS DEPT. – $10,000
Camp Kavod CIT Program

HANLEY FOUNDATION – $7,000
Marijuana and Vaping Prevention for South Palm Beach County Youth

HILLEL OF BROWARD & PALM ВЕАСН – $10,000
Women’s Shabbaton

JARC – $7,500
Life Skills Training Program

JEWISH FEDERATION OF SPBC – $5,000
PJ Our Way and Grandparent lnitiative

LIUMI – $5,000
Women’s Wellness in the Garden JARC Collaboration

SOUTHERN NCSY – $15,000
Hate Ends Now

ADOPT-A-SAFTA – $10,000
Adopt-A-Safta

FUNDING 2022: $105,000

March of the Living – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Rales JFS – $12,500
Fresh Start Program

Levis JCC Special Needs Dept. – $10,000
Camp Kavod CIT Program

Hillel of Broward and PB – $10,000
Jewish Learning Fellowship

JARC – $7,500
Fitness and Fun Program

PJ Library – $5,000
PJ Our Way and Grandparent Initiative

Southern NCSY – $15,000
Hate Ends Now Tour

Hanley Foundation – $5,000
Marijuana & Vaping Prevention for SPC Youth

Liumi West Retreat – $5,000
Women’s Wellness in the Garden

Am Yisrael Foundation – $15,000
Adapt-A-Safta

FUNDING 2021: $106,000

March of the Living – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Rales JFS – $13,000
Fresh Start Program

Levis JCC Special Needs Dept. – $10,000
Camp Kavod CIT Program

Hillel of Broward and PB – $10,000
Jewish Learning Fellowship

JARC – $10,000
ADAPT Project

PJ Library – $10,000
PJ Our Way and Grandparent Initiative

Southern NCSY – $5,000
Women in Action

JWF Rapid Response Fund – $18,000

JWF Micro Grant Initiative – $10,000

FUNDING 2020: $85,000

Liumi – $2,000
Delray Intentional Garden

March of the Living – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Hillel of Broward and PB – $5,000
Jewish Learning Fellowship

JARC – $10,000
Project GREEN

Rales JFS – $10,000
TARA: Teens Against Relationship Abuse

Levis JCC – $5,000
Camp Kavod CIT Program

PJ Library – $5,000
PJ Our Way

Southern NCSY – $5,000
Women in Action

Rapid Response Fund – $23,000

FUNDING 2019: $100,000

ISRAEL
Beit Issie Shapiro – $12,333
Economic Empowerment for Low Income Women and Men with Low Average Intelligence and Complex Learning Disabilities

Center for Women’s Justice (CJW) – $5,000
Let Freedom Ring-Empowering Women Against Marital Captivity

Eden Association – $12,333
Sex Education for Adolescent Girls at Risk in Southern Israel

Ethiopian National Project – $12,333
SPACE (School Performance and Community Empowerment) Holistic Girls Empowerment Program in Beer Sheva

IN OUR COMMUNITY
Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center (JCC) Special Needs Department – $5,000
Camp Kavod CIT Program for Young Adults with Special Needs

Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach – $6,550
JLF-Jewish Learning Fellowship

JARC (Jewish Association for Residential Care) – $10,000
Ability Garden Employment Training

Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – $10,000
PJ Library® and PJ Our Way™

March of the Living Southern Region (MOL) – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Ruth & Normal Rales Jewish Family Services – $6,501
Teens Against Relationship Abuse (TARA)

FUNDING 2018: $105,000

ISRAEL
Center for Women’s Justice – $10,000
Developing and Enhancing CWJ’s Legal Solutions for Empowering Women and Eliminating Get Abuse

Kol Israel Haverim – $10,000
Cracking the Glass Ceiling: Working Towards a Significant Military or National Service for Girls in Science

Krembo Wings – $10,000
Support of Krembo Wings Branch in Eila

Tahel Crisis Center for Religious Women and Children – $10,000
Production of Movies to Prevent Violence Against Religious Women and Children

Yedid – The Association for Community Empowerment – $5,000
Let’s Get to Work: Financial Capability Workshops for Women Who Live on Low Incomes

Yozmat Atid – $10,000
Realizing My Business Dream: An All-Inclusive Micro-Entrepreneurship Program

IN OUR COMMUNITY
Jewish Association for Residential Care (JARC) – $10,000
Community Works Transition Program

Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – $10,000
PJ Library- PJ Our Way

Jewish Women’s International (JWI) – $5,000
Change the Culture (JWF South Florida Collaborative Grant totaling $20,000)

Kidsafe Foundation – $5,000
Empower Me KidSafe! Prevent Child Abuse

March of the Living Southern Region – $20,000
From March to Miriam

FUNDING 2017: $100,000

ISRAEL
American Friends of Meshi – $5,000
Communication Training Initiative

Center for Women’s Justice – $10,000
Harnessing the Power of Masses to Advance Civil Action Against Get Abuse

Kol Israel Haverim – $10,000
Cracking the Glass Ceiling- Working towards a significant military or National Service for Girls in Science

Krembo Wings – $10,000
A Youth Movement for Children with and without Disabilities Support of a newly established Kembo Wings branch in Eilat

Yedid – The Association for Community Empowerment – $5,000
Let’s Get to Work: financial capability workshops for women who live on low incomes

IN OUR COMMUNITY
JAFCO – $10,000
Young Women’s Partnership Program

Jewish Association for Residential Care (JARC) – $10,000
The JARC Abilities Garden’s Able Gardeners and Bubbes Program

Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – $5,000
PJ Our Way

Kidsafe Foundation – $5,000
JWF of South Palm Beach County is Keeping Kidsafe!

March of the Living Southern Region – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Yeshivat Maharat – $10,000
Leadership Development Program

FUNDING 2016: $100,000

ISRAEL – $60,000
Center for Women’s Justice – $10,000
Skills Building and Outreach Initiative for Civil Action Against Get Abuse

JobKatif: Achotenu – $10,000
Ethiopian Nurses Bridge Program

Machshava Tova – $12,500
App Development Course for Girls

Kol Israel Haverim – $12,500
Cracking the Glass Ceiling – Working Towards a Significant Military or National Service for Girls in Science

Hadassah – $15,000
From Addis Ababa Jerusalem: Eshet Chayil Family Shabbaton Retreat (2nd Year of 2-Year Funding)

IN OUR COMMUNITY – $40,000
March of the Living – $20,000
From March to Miriam

PJ Library – $5,000
PJ Our Way

JARC Florida: Employ JARC – $10,000
Employ JARC!

Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach County – $5,000
JEWELL

FUNDING 2015: $125,000

ISRAEL
Center for Women’s Justice – $10,000
Skills Building and Outreach Initiative for Civil Action Against Get Abuse

The Eden Center – $10,000
Building Bridges: Continuing Education for Abuse Prevention and Women’s Health Empowerment with Israeli Mikveh Attendants

ELI: Israeli Association for Child Protection – $10,000
Training Ethiopian Social Workers to Work with Abused Ethiopian Children And Their Families

Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. – $15,000
From Addis Ababa to Jerusalem: Eshet Chayil Family Shabbaton Retreat (2 year program)

International Beit Din – $15,000
Social Media Initiative

The Israel National Museum of Science, Technology & Space Museum (MadaTech) – $10,000
Girl Powered Science

Together Beyond Words (TBW) – $10,000
Developing Women’s Leadership and Enhancing Empathy Towards the “other” in Israel through Playback Theater and TBW Group Work

Women’s Spirit – $10,000
“Opening Doors” – Preparing Battered Women for Financial Independence As They Prepare to Leave or Recently Left a Battered Women’s Shelter

IN OUR COMMUNITY
JARC Florida (Jewish Association for Residential Care) – $10,000
Café 95’s L.E.A.P. Program

March of the Living – Jewish Federation of SPBC – $20,000
From March to Miriam

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services – $5,000
Let’s Get Healthy

FUNDING 2014: $170,000

ISRAEL
AMERICAN FRIENDS OF BEIT ISSIE SHAPIRO – $20,000
Beit Issie Shapiro’s iPad Project for Special Needs Children

CENTER FOR WOMEN’S JUSTICE – $20,000
Skills Building and Outreach Initiative for Civil Action Against Get Abuse

HILLEL – THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE – $20,000
Housing Assistance and Financial Empowerment for Former Haredi Single Mothers

KOL HAISHA – $18,690
Integration and Employment Readiness for the Ethiopian Community in Jerusalem

KOL ISRAEL HAVERIM – $20,000
Cracking the Glass Ceiling: Promoting Young Women to Science

WOMEN’S SPIRIT – $20,000
Opening Doors – Preparing Battered Women for Financial Independence (as they prepare to leave or recently left a battered women’s shelter)

IN OUR COMMUNITY
HILLEL OF BROWARD AND PALM BEACH – $12,000
JEWELL: Jewish Empowered Women Exemplifying Leadership and Learning

MARCH OF THE LIVING – JEWISH FEDERATION OF SPBC – $18,800
From March to Miriam

PJ LIBRARY® – SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY – $20,000

FUNDING 2013: $121,060

ISRAEL
THE AMERICAN COMMITTEE FOR SHENKAR COLLEGE IN ISRAEL, INC. – $18,000
Empowering At Risk Women Students for College Completion at Shenkar College of Engineering and Design, Ramat Gan, Israel

KOL ISRAEL HAVERIM – $20,000
Cracking the Glass Ceiling – Promoting Young Women to Science

MACHSHAVA TOVA – $20,000
Enabling Disadvantaged Women to Break Out of the Cycle of Poverty Through Access to Technology

WEPOWER: AN ORGANIZATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL – $20,000
Developing Women’s Leadership in the Municipal Arena throughout Israel

KOL ISRAEL HAVERIM – $20,000
Cracking the Glass Ceiling: Promoting Young Women to Science

WOMEN’S SPIRIT – $20,000
Opening Doors – Preparing Battered Women for Financial Independence (as they prepare to leave or recently left a battered women’s shelter)

IN OUR COMMUNITY
PJ LIBRARY® – SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY – $20,000

RUTH RALES JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE – $8,060*
Let’s Get Healthy
*First year out of a 2-year grant

JEWISH FEDERATION OF SPBC, SPECIAL NEEDS DEPARTMENT – $10,000
iPads for Autism

FUNDING 2012: $107,250

ISRAEL
ELI – THE ISRAEL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD PROTECTION – $15,000
(2nd funding year)
Parental Supervision and Empowerment Program for Abusive or Neglectful Single Mothers

THE CENTER FOR WOMEN’S JUSTICE – $18,000
Legal Education Program provides over 200 family law practitioners with information and resources on the get (Jewish divorce) refusal petitions

WE POWER – $20,000
Young Women for Future Leadership Training
Program provides women ages 22-45 the opportunities to advance in the political arena and promote women’s rights

ETHIOPIAN NATIONAL PROJECT – $20,000
Empowerment Program for Teenage Girls at Risk addresses the cultural, emotional and developmental needs of Ethiopian-Israeli teens struggling to fit into modern Israeli life, through informative and culturally sensitive programs in Kiryat Bialik

HAIFA RAPE CRISIS CENTER – $20,000
Systemic Community Intervention Program to provide Jewish women and girls in Northern Israel a support system for survivors of sexual abuse in addition to prevention programs

JWF INTERNATIONAL FUNDING COLLABORATIVE GRANT IN ISRAEL – $5,000
In 2012, we will be one of seventeen foundations participating in a collaborative grant in Israel, each JWF contributing $10,000 over two years for a total of $170,000. JWFs from across the country are sharing research on issues, grantee experiences, best practices know how as well as fundraising ideas, a true think tank

IN OUR COMMUNITY
ADOLPH AND ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER – $9,250
(3rd funding year)
The SAVVY program provides Jewish teenage girls and young adults with special needs a workshop to learn self defense, social and emotional skills they need to take charge

FUNDING 2011: $135,100

ISRAEL
ETHIOPIAN NATIONAL PROJECT – $14,000
Empowerment Program for Teenage Girls At Risk
Workshops covering topics such as self identity, relationships, personal responsibility and social pressure

THE AMERICAN COMMITTEE FOR SHENKAR COLLEGE IN ISRAEL, INC. – $18,000
Empowerment Program for At Risk Women for College Completion
First and second year women students, a tutoring, mentoring program

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE, JDC – $20,000
Women’s Health Empowerment Project
Psycho-social support, informational and educational interventions, support networks and public policy advocates

ELI – THE ISRAEL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD PROTECTION – $15,000*
Parental Supervision and Empowerment Program for Abusive and Neglectful Single Mothers
Abused mothers acquire the skills they need to properly care for their children
*First year out of a 2-year grant

SAPIR ACADEMIC COLLEGE – $20,000
Girls for Girls
Guidance and mentors for girls who have experienced both abuse both physically and sexually and are on the brink of dropping out of school

ISRAEL HELP AND EDUCATION CENTER – $15,000
Empowering Jewish Girls at Risk
The right programs to empower young girls and to provide them with academic programs to enable them to create a better future for themselves

IN OUR COMMUNITY
ADOLPH AND ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER – $9,600
The SAVVY program provides Jewish teenage girls and young adults with special needs a workshop to learn self defense, social and emotional skills they need to take charge

JARC – $10,000
Employment Program for Women with Disabilities
Women learn valuable skills that allow for real safety net services

HILLEL OF BROWARD AND PALM BEACH COUNTIES – $13,500
Jewish Women’s Institute for Learning and Leadership
A group of women have the opportunity to explore identities, discuss gender issues and assume leadership roles in their community

FUNDING 2010: $96,100

ISRAEL
SAPIR ACADEMIC COLLEGE – $15,000
Girls for Girls, Serves 45 women, ages 16-23 in the Negev and Southern Israel

HAMIFAL EDUCATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOMES – $18,000
Abuse Prevention Program, Serves 401 girls, ages 11-18 throughout Israel

ISRAEL HELP AND EDUCATION CENTER – $15,000
Empowering Jewish Girls at Risk through Education, Serves 180 girls, ages 5-12 in Kiryat Gat, Israel

BISHVILAYCH WOMEN’S HEALTH ORGANIZATION – $10,000
The Israel Breast Program, Your Health is in Your Hands, Serves women in Jerusalem, Israel

HILLEL, THE FOUNDATION FOR JEWISH CAMPUS LIFE – $20,000
The Latin American Jewish Young Women’s Health and Leadership Initiative, Serves 775 young women, ages 18-25 in Buenos Aires & Cordoba, Argentina; Montevideo, Uruguay and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

IN OUR COMMUNITY
JARC – $10,000
Employment Program for Women with Disabilities, Serves 59 women, ages 18-65 in Boca Raton, FL

ADOLPH AND ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER – $8,100
SAVVY, and Innovative Self Defense and Self Actualization Program for Teenage Girls and Adult Women with Special Needs, Serves 15 girls and 15 women, ages 13-adulthood, in Boca Raton, FL

FUNDING 2009: $90,000
ISRAEL
AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ORR SHALOM – $10,000
Girl to Girl: Empowerment Initiative for Ethiopian Teens

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) – $10,000
The Teen Pregnancy Empowerment Program

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) – $10,000
The Women’s health Empowerment Program (WHEP)

BEYOND WORDS – $10,000
Finding Our Voices

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN (EEW) – $10,000
Business Incubator: Growing Women’s Micro Enterprises in Northern Israel

EL HA LEV-ISRAEL WOMEN’S MARTIAL ARTS FEDERATION – $10,000
IMPACT: Full Power-Self Defense Training for At- Risk Teenage Girls

ISRAEL CHILDREN’S CENTERS, INC. – $10,000
Leadership & Empowerment Program for Girls at High Risk

ISRAEL FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION (IFPA) – $10,000
Life Skills Empowerment Experiential Workshops for Girls at Risk in “Warm Houses”

FUNDING 2008: $100,000

ISRAEL
AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ORR SHALOM – $10,000
Girl to Girl: Empowerment Initiative for Ethiopian Teens

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) – $10,000
The Teen Pregnancy Empowerment Program

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) – $10,000
The Women’s Health Empowerment Program (WHEP)

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) – $10,000
Girl’s Space (A Component of the Girls on the Map Initiative)

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN (EEW) – $10,000
Access to Markets

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN (EEW) – $10,000
Business Incubator: Growing Women’s Micro Enterprises in Northern Israel

ISRAEL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD PROTECTION (ELI) – $10,000
Outreach and Child Protection

ISRAEL FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION (IFPA) – $10,000
Life Skills Empowerment Experiential Workshops for Girls at Risk in “Warm Houses”

ISRAEL FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION (IFPA) – $10,000
A Bridge to Communication: Empowering Female Professionals From The Former Soviet Union To Become Moderators On Intimacy And Sexuality As Life Skills For Young Women

FUNDING 2007: $21,075

ISRAEL
AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE – $10,000
Girls-For-Girls Mentoring Training Program (of “Girls on the Map”)

HILLEL OF BROWARD & PALM BEACH – $2,800
Hillel Haverot- Bringing Jewish Tradition to Today’s Young Women

JEWISH EDUCATION COMMISSION – $8,275
J-Gift Jewish Girls Inspired For Tomorrow

FUNDING 2006: $20,975
ISRAEL
ELI- THE ISRAEL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD PROTECTION – $7,500
Treating child Abuse- Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence

JEWISH EDUCATION COMMISSION – $5,975
J-Gift Jewish Girls Inspired For Tomorrow

NATIONAL INSURANCE INSTITUTE – $7,500
Training To Care For The Elderly


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

In 2008, the JWF Trustees established the Rapid Response Fund to assist women in children in the Delray Beach and Boca Raton vicinity in dire need for immediate and unplanned emergencies.

Based on referrals from local Jewish agencies and synagogues, small one-time grants are awarded to women and children who are adversely impacted by a current crisis.

When a request comes in, Trustees on the Rapid Response Fund committee receive a text alert to check their email to read the request and respond immediately with their questions or vote.  JWF has committed to respond within 24 hours.

A few families JWF has helped:

  • A family’s home burned to the ground and needed clothing and staples for a family of four. In another instance, a single mother’s husband left the family overnight without warning and closed all bank accounts, had to put food on the table.
  • A Ukrainian mother, grandmother and two children fled Ukraine when the war began, set up home and began work in Boca. Shortly thereafter the mother came down with an illness and they were without an income.  JWF helped with rent for a month.
  • An Israeli family who lost five family members in the October 7th War moved to Boca to be safe and comforted in a loving Jewish community and needed assistance with tuition for two children to attend Hebrew Day School.

 Distributions to recipients must be made through an organization as defined by Internal Revenue Service Code 501(c)3, and not through independent requests from individuals.


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

Recognizing the vital importance of nurturing the next wave of Jewish leaders and philanthropists, ensuring a legacy that extends to our children, grandchildren, and beyond, JWF pioneered the Micro Grant Fund in 2020.

Geared towards today’s youth, teens, and college students in the Boca -Delray Beach area to inspire positive change in the community.

Micro Grants are small awards up to $1800 to support projects or programs that contribute to enlighten us and/or improve the communities well-being.

JWF proudly invests in the aspirations of our youth, fosters a culture or proactive involvement and social responsibility and pave the way for a brighter future grounded in compassion, action and philanthropy.

Grantees must personally have a tax-exempt 501c3 status or be sponsored by an organization with a tax-exempt 501c3 status.

Micro Grants have been awarded to:

Alexander Weisenfeld – Boy Scout Eagle Project

Mira Rubin and Alex Chazin – Girls in The Garden

JARC: Abili-Tea Trademark

Robbie Shindler – Film: Light Inside the Darkness

Jarrett Weintraub: Film: JWF, A Voice and A Vote


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

In the wake of the October 7th War in Israel, the JWF Trustees sprang into action, exhibiting resilience and compassion in the face of adversity and established the Israel Emergency Relief Fund.  The fund is committed to providing immediate and tangible aid to organization on the frontlines, tirelessly assisting families in rebuilding their lives.

Current Grants

  • ADI Negev: Group Therapy Sessions for Wounded Soldiers
  • Always Beside You, The Home for IDF Paramedics: Support for IDF paramedics
  • Amen-Ohela: Dead Sea Therapeutic Center
  • Bayit Al HaYam: The Safe Harbor Project
  • Ha’Ogen: Care giving style support services to those families where a loved one has been drafted from the reserves to serve in the IDF and need extra family help
  • Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach: Collective Federations of North America Emergency Fund
  • Ohr Torah Stone: Assistance to Agunot Who Left the North and the South and the Hosen Project Reliance in Crisis
  • Partners of Fallen IDF Soldiers: Emotional Support and Tools for Rehabilitation to the Unmarried Partners of Fallen IDF Soldiers
  • The Adama Tova Center: Healing Center for Nova Survivors and Their Families
  • The Eden Center – Rebuilding and Renovating of the Residential Care Home at Kibbutz Karmiya
  • The Nitzan Association: Emotional Workshops for Israeli Children with ADHD

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant from the Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County.

Before you proceed with a Letter of Intent (LOI), please review JWF’s grant guidelines.

Organizations based in the U.S. are eligible to apply without an invitation.

ISRAELI ORGANIZATIONS:  The invitation opportunity to submit a Letter of Intent is now closed for the 2023 grant process. LOI requests for the 2024 grant process will begin in July 2023.

Those organizations that have already contacted JWF with your request and have been invited to submit an LOI for the 2024 grant process must submit it by September 7, 2023 at 5:00PM EST.

Mission Statement

The Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County, referred to as “JWF,” was created to empower women donors to be leaders, decision makers and agents for change. By making grants to qualified organizations and agencies for specific programs, JWF seeks to provide Jewish women and children, both locally and abroad, with improved opportunities and life choices.

General Considerations

We are interested in programs that recognize that Jewish women and children have unique needs because of both their gender and their religious and cultural heritage.

JWF is committed to improving the overall status of Jewish women and children, and funds projects that promote social change by addressing at least one of the indicators described below:

Attempting to shift the following areas:

  • Definitions and reframing of issues: An issue is defined differently in the community or larger society as a result of your work.
  • Individual and community behavior: People are behaving differently in the community or larger society as a result of your work.
  • Critical mass and engagement: People in the community or larger society are more engaged as a result of your work.
  • Institutions, systems and policies: An institutional, organizational, or legislative policy or practice has changed as a result of your work.
  • Maintaining earlier progress: As a result of your work, past gains have been maintained, generally in the face of opposition.

Special Eligibility Requirements for Israeli Grantees

  • JWF evaluates unique Israeli programs and projects specifically designed to encourage and cultivate social change for Jewish women and children.

JWF considers your organization’s overall support of women and children, as well as the specific program for which you are seeking a grant. This includes the extent to which Jewish women are included among your leadership and in key staff positions.

Grant Categories (see full page for more details)

  • Financial Security/Safety Net Services
  • Health and Abuse Prevention for Women and Children
  • Education/Leadership Development for Women and Children
  • Mental health and Wellness
  • Jewish Engagement Community Building and Mentoring

CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant from the Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County.

Before you proceed with a Letter of Intent, please review JWF’s grant guidelines.

Organizations based in the U.S. are eligible to apply without an invitation.

ISRAELI ORGANIZATIONS: LOI requests for the 2025 grant process will begin in June 2024. Those organizations that have already contacted JWF with your request and have been invited to submit an LOI for the 2025 grant process must submit it by September 12, 2023 at 5:00PM EST.
Those organizations that have already contacted JWF with your request and have been invited to submit an LOI for the 2023 grant process must submit it by August 30, 2024 at 5:00PM EST.

Mission Statement

The Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County, referred to as “JWF,” was created to empower women donors to be leaders, decision makers and agents for change. By making grants to qualified organizations and agencies for specific programs, JWF seeks to provide Jewish women and children, both locally and abroad, with improved opportunities and life choices.

General Considerations

We are interested in programs that recognize that Jewish women and children have unique needs because of both their gender and their religious and cultural heritage.

JWF is committed to improving the overall status of Jewish women and children, and funds projects that promote social change by addressing at least one of the indicators described below:

Attempting to shift the following areas:

  • Definitions and reframing of issues: An issue is defined differently in the community or larger society as a result of your work.
  • Individual and community behavior: People are behaving differently in the community or larger society as a result of your work.
  • Critical mass and engagement: People in the community or larger society are more engaged as a result of your work.
  • Institutions, systems and policies: An institutional, organizational, or legislative policy or practice has changed as a result of your work.
  • Maintaining earlier progress: As a result of your work, past gains have been maintained, generally in the face of opposition.

Special Eligibility Requirements for Israeli Grantees

  • JWF evaluates unique Israeli programs and projects specifically designed to encourage and cultivate social change for Jewish women and children.

JWF considers your organization’s overall support of women and children, as well as the specific program for which you are seeking a grant. This includes the extent to which Jewish women are included among your leadership and in key staff positions.

Grant Categories (see full page for more details)

  • Financial Security/
  • Safety Net Services
  • Health and Abuse Prevention for Women and Children
  • Education/Leadership Development for Women and Children
  • Mental Health and Wellness
  • Jewish Engagement, Community Building and Mentoring

Grant Calendar and Application Process

  • Deadline to submit a Letter of Intent – Friday, August 30, 2024
  • Notification to applicants inviting/declining full proposal – Friday, November 1, 2024
  • Deadline for Specified Agencies submit full Grant Application – Friday, December 20, 2024
  • JWF Trustee Grant Review Meetings – January 2025 – March 2025
  • Final Notification of Grants Awarded – Friday, March 7, 2025

Grant Criteria

  • Grants programs should seek to elevate the development and empowerment and/or education of Jewish women and children.
  • Programs must also address a genuine need and provide measurable results.
  • The geographic areas we serve are South Palm Beach County, Florida, Israel and other underserved populations overseas.
  • Organizations must have their own 501(c)3 tax status or with a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 public charity.
  • JWF will not fund political campaigns, make loans, provide sponsorships, buy tickets/tables for special events or pay for ongoing or existing staff and volunteer costs.
  • An organization may apply for funding for only one program per year, requesting a maximum grant amount of $20,000.
  • Grant dollars must be used within the period for which they have been required, or they must be returned within that period. We appreciate that organizations have an open book policy with us to discuss issues on a case by case basis.

General Process

To apply for funding, please submit a grant application form including the following items:

  • Copy of IRS 501(c)(3) letter or with a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 public charity (if you are not a partner agency of the Jewish Federation of SPBC).
  • A list of your organization’s Board of Directors and mission statement.
  • JWF program budget form and budget notes.
  • Most recent audit.
  • Organizational brochures, newsletters and other promotional materials (electronically in separate attachment).
  • Links to videos highlighting your organization, specifically the program for which you are applying for funding, if possible.

Eligibility and Restrictions

  • We fund only organizations with their own status as a 501(c)3 public charity or with a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 public charity.
  • We do not fund political campaigns or organizations such as PACS.
  • We do not make loans, award scholarships/tuition reimbursements, nor do we provide sponsorships or buy tickets/tables for special events.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org

ISRAELI ORGANIZATIONS: The invitation opportunity to submit a Letter of Intent is by invitation only. Israeli Organizations that request to submit an LOI will be notified if they are eligible in early July 2024. Inquiries from Israeli organizations, please contact Tanya Miller at TanyaM@bocafed.org

LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS: JWF welcomes an initial Letter of Intent from any local organization that seeks to improve the status of Jewish women and children.

2025-2026 Grant Cycle Information

  • Grant process opens Monday, July 1, 2024
  • Deadline to submit Letter of Intent online application – Friday, August 30, 2024
  • Notification of acceptance or rejection to submit a full Grant Application will be by Friday October 25, 2024.
  • Notification if selected to submit a full Grant Application Friday, October 25, 2024
  • Deadline to submit an online Full Grant Proposal – Friday, December 20, 2024
  • Organizations must have their own 501(c)3 tax status or with a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 public charity

Step One: Submit Letter of Intent

JWF welcomes an initial Letter of Intent from any local organization that seeks to improve the status of Jewish women and children.

Fill out and submit your LOI. Letters of Intent are due to JWF by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, August, 30, 2024

Completion of the Letter of Intent form is required.

Domestic organizations (within the United States) have no limit as to the number of Letters of Intent that may be submitted for distinct different programs. International organizations (outside the United States) may submit one Letter of Intent per year. Organizations must have their own 501(c)3 tax status or with a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 public charity.

Step Two: Selection Status Notification by JWF

JWF evaluates and notifies each applicant by Friday, October 25, 2024.

Step Three: Submit a Full Grant Proposal

Please do not submit a proposal unless specifically requested to do so by JWF as indicated in Step Two.

The Deadline to submit an online full grant proposal is Friday, December 20, 2024 by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. 

  • Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
  • Late applications will not be accepted.
  • Submit the Program Budget Form (link in the application) that details income and expenses for the proposed program and the Budget Notes. Give a clear indication of how JWF funds would be allocated. Applications submitted without the completion of the Program Budget Form and Budget Notes will be considered incomplete and therefore ineligible for consideration during the current grant cycle.

An email confirmation is sent upon submission. If you do not receive an email confirmation, contact the Tanya Miller at 561.852.3166 or TanyaM@bocafed.org.

If requested format of application is not followed, the application will not be accepted.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Step Four: Final Notification of Grants Awarded

JWF will make its final grant determinations and grant recipients will receive notification of grant awards by Friday, March 7, 2025

The first installment of the funds will be disbursed in September of 2025.


CONTACT INFORMATION

Lottie Nilsen, CAP®, CFRE
Vice President, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Phone: (561) 852-3109 – Email: LottieN@bocafed.org