In a time of unprecedented antisemitism, the ongoing war in Israel, and rising needs in the Jewish community — any new leader might be deterred. But not Women's Philanthropy Co-Chairs Robin Robbins and Jenifer (Jen) Thomas.
“Serving in this role during such a pivotal time in Jewish history is an honor,” noted Thomas.
Navigating this challenging time for the Jewish community fuels the pair to rally the region’s Jewish women together, using their leadership prowess to connect and raise funds for the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.
"Robin and Jen’s commitment to strengthening our community and uplifting those in need is very inspiring,” shared Marni Davis, the Jewish Federation’s senior director of affinities and volunteer engagement. “This is the first time that Women’s Philanthropy has two co-chairs and we are lucky to have such dedicated, kind and passionate leaders at the helm."
We spoke with Robbins and Thomas as they reflected on the work of Women's Philanthropy over the past year.
How has Women's Philanthropy addressed the most pressing needs of the Jewish community, especially after Oct. 7?
Robin Robbins: This has been a difficult time for our community. Since Oct. 7, Jewish hate has become more visible and emboldened. We’ve worked to create a space for women to discuss their most urgent concerns and raise funds to combat antisemitism.
In February, we hosted “Antisemitism in Philadelphia: From School to Campus to Community.” Lori Lowenthal Marcus, Esq., legal director of the Deborah Project—which defends the civil rights of Jews facing discrimination in educational settings — discussed how we can remain strong, united and proactive in addressing these challenges.
Which Jewish Federation supported organization or program personally resonates with you?
Robin Robbins: I am extremely proud of how the Jewish Federation mobilized immediately after Oct. 7. Hours after the attack, the organization launched its emergency fund, to date, raising over $16 million in aid for Israel. The response was overwhelming, with thousands of new supporters contributing. In a time of crisis, the Jewish Federation demonstrated remarkable leadership and commitment.
Jen Thomas: As a parent of three, I’m especially grateful for the Jewish Federation’s efforts to ensure that my synagogue, Temple Sinai, is as safe as possible. My kids also cherished their summers at Pinemere, and I deeply appreciate the organization’s support for Jewish overnight camps. Now, with two children at Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy and one in college, I see firsthand how vital it is to support day schools and Hillels, especially in today’s climate.
Why do you personally give to the Jewish Federation?
Robbins: A gift to the Jewish Federation is a gift to all Jewish people, wherever Jews are in need. The principle of “Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh Bazeh” — "all Israel are responsible for one another” — is one of my core Jewish values, and the Jewish Federation exemplifies this commitment to communal responsibility and unity.
Thomas: There are so many worthy causes, but right now, I feel it is most important to support your Jewish organizations, especially as we collectively work to combat the rise in antisemitism and ensure that Jewish life continues here, in Israel and elsewhere around the world. By giving to the Jewish Federation, I know my contribution will be used where it is needed most.
For those just hearing about Women’s Philanthropy, what should they know?
Thomas: Our goal is to empower women to connect, be inspired and to lead. We welcome women of all ages, stages and backgrounds, who share a commitment to strengthening our Jewish community.
Robbins: In addition to providing financial support, we volunteer, learn and travel together, while building meaningful relationships through our shared desire to give back.
What are some of the ways that women can get involved?
Thomas: If you are looking to perform mitzvot, we offer a multitude of volunteer opportunities at Jewish Federation-supported organizations like Mitzvah Circle, the Jewish Relief Agency and KleinLife.
Beyond volunteering, we provide educational initiatives like Journeys, our women’s leadership development program. Participants explore the Jewish Federation’s history and funding priorities, network with like-minded women and take part in meaningful mitzvah projects.
This summer, Women's Philanthropy will travel to Israel in partnership with Momentum, which empowers women to connect to Jewish values through travel and exploration. We will connect with our sister community in Sdot Negev, and strengthen our network of philanthropists and leaders.
What philanthropic opportunities are available?
Robbins: We help women find their philanthropic passions as we make a collective impact. Any woman who donates to the Jewish Federation is automatically part of Women’s Philanthropy.
But, for those looking to take their philanthropic journey further, we offer two giving societies: Lion of Judah — women who donate $5,000 or more to the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign — and the Pomegranate Society — those who contribute at least $1,800 annually.
Today, we have 730 Lions and 495 Pomegranate donors. I am proud to say that Women's Philanthropy is the largest fundraising group within the Jewish Federation.
Over the last year, which defining moment has impacted you most?
Thomas: While attending this year’s Lion of Judah Conference, I remember looking around at the smart, philanthropic and dedicated women surrounding me. Being part of this extraordinary sisterhood is deeply fulfilling, and knowing that our Jewish community remains strong because of Women’s Philanthropy ignites my passion to pay it forward and make a lasting impact.
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The Jewish Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy engages compassionate and committed women at every stage of life in the fulfilling work of building and supporting Jewish life today and for generations to come. To learn more about the work of the Women’s Philanthropy affinity group, visit jewishphilly.org/wp or Women’s Philanthropy Director Lannie Hulnick at lhulnick@jewishphilly.org or 215.832.0502.
