From March 1-5, 65 local women traveled to Panama on a Women’s Philanthropy mission with the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.

"The Women's Philanthropy Mission to Panama was truly a meaningful and inspiring experience for me,” said Sherrie Spiegel, Women's Philanthropy Mission to Panama co-chair. “Witnessing firsthand the strength and vibrancy of the Jewish community was incredibly moving and powerful.”

From touring the canal to volunteering in the community to celebrating Purim, this life-changing experience during Women's History Month provided the participants with the opportunity to connect with each other and with the Jewish community of Panama.

“One of the greatest highlights was building deeper connections with such an extraordinary group of women,” Spiegel continued. “I loved creating lasting memories and look forward to sharing our next journey together!"

This was a sentiment shared by many, including Spiegel’s Mission to Panama Co-Chair Emily Berman.

"Being in Panama surrounded by so many incredible, strong women was truly meaningful and inspiring,” said Berman. “Experiencing the vibrant Jewish culture there was powerful, and it was amazing to see how, despite being miles apart, our communities share so many of the same values, traditions, and sense of connection.

Missions are a vital part of the Jewish Federation as they allow participants to connect with Jewish communities around the world as well as to see philanthropy in action.

“One of the most meaningful moments for me was visiting the Isaac Rabin Jewish School ( an ORT school) and hearing directly from the teens whose lives have been shaped by the opportunities the school provides,” Berman shared. “Listening to their stories was inspiring and a beautiful reminder of the impact our community can have around the world. It was a trip filled with perspective, gratitude, and unforgettable memories.”

See below for highlights from their journey:

 The participants gave back to the community by packing Shabbat boxes with essential supplies, like challah and wine, for those in need.

The women donned their masks and spun their groggers during a Purim celebration at Kol Shearith Synagogue.

During the five-day mission, the participants took in the sites of Panama, including a boat tour of the Panama Canal. 

In addition to volunteering and meeting with members of the Jewish community in Panama, the women also participated in activities, such as yoga, to unwind, reset and connect as a cohort.  

***

Women’s Philanthropy empowers, engages, and connects women at every stage of life to become leaders and ambassadors who work to ensure a vibrant Jewish future. As part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Women’s Philanthropy travels, volunteers, learns, gives and forges meaningful connections between like-minded women. To learn more, click here or contact Women's Philanthropy Director Lannie Hulnick at lhulnick@jewishphilly.org or 215.832.0502.

Interested in going on a mission trip with the Jewish Federation? Learn more here or contact Erica Miller, Missions Manager, at erica.miller@jewishphilly.org.