Lion of Judah
The Lion of Judah recognition program was introduced by the Miami Jewish Federation in 1972, and endorsed nationally in 1980, to honor philanthropic women. Lions of Judah act on the strong belief that Tzedakah is an individual responsibility by making a significant and continuing personal gift to the annual campaign. More than 13,000 women in North America, Israel and around the world are recognized as Lions of Judah by their peers.
For more information about Lion of Judah recognition, or LOJE, Bradley Seltzer, Development Coordinator. or Beth Romano at ext. 3204
The Lion of Judah’s internationally recognized symbol is a jewel-inset 14-karat gold lion pin. The Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Zahav and Sabra Diamonds incorporated into the design distinguish personal gifts of increasing levels.
A woman contributing a continuing personal commitment of at least $5,000 to the annual campaign in a given year is eligible to wear a Lion of Judah pin. As her contribution grows, the corresponding precious gem is then placed as an inset in the lion’s eye.
Ruby - $10,000—$17,999
Sapphire - $18,000—$24,999
Emerald - $25,000—$49,000
Zahav (canary diamond) - $50,000—$74,999
Sabra (cognac diamond) - $75,000—$99,999
Prime Minister’s Council (black diamond) - $100,000 and above
Lion of Judah Endowment Fund - Ensuring a strong Jewish future
The strength and vitality of a woman’s giving continues year after year through the Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE). Establishing a LOJE enables a woman to leave a legacy to safeguard the values that have inspired her giving during her lifetime — values such as social justice, preserving human dignity, and Jewish education. A LOJE gift represents the creation of a permanent fund guaranteeing that a woman’s financial commitment of $5,000 or more to the annual campaign will be made in her name every year after her lifetime.
The Or L’Atid (Light Unto the Future), symbolized by a flame emanating from the Lion of Judah pin, signifies to the Jewish world a woman’s generous LOJE commitment. She becomes a light unto the future, a keeper of the flame.
Through simple, innovative steps, an endowed gift is within the reach of any Lion of Judah, regardless of age or giving level. Establishing a LOJE ensures a strong Jewish future and provides a legacy for your children and grandchildren.