makingAnnual Reporta 2011–2012 difference

in our community It’s too difficult for one person to change the whole world.

But for each person we touch, we know that their world is changed for the better. We are taught that “a community is too heavy for anyone to carry alone.” Truer words could not reflect the experience of the volunteers, staff, donors, and supporters that give life and breath to the programs that have been created through NCJW/LA. Thanks to all of the doers—whether through contributions of dollars or hours—we have been able to carry those in our community who need some extra support at critical times in their lives. It is so gratifying to make a difference in the lives of others and to know that we aren’t doing it alone.

Every volunteer knows that she or he is part of a collective for the greater good. Every staff member knows that there is a Board and a committee to amplify their hard work. To know that we’ve got each other’s back is a powerful feeling. All of the hard work and all of the contributions are leveraged in a very meaningful way. It’s too difficult for one person to change the whole world. But for each person we touch, we know that their world is changed for the better.

In these times that are economically challenging to so many, we know that there is a lot of work to do, while resources are stretched thin. How exciting that we have been able to evolve and expand to meet the needs of so many. It is a reflection of our amazing supporters who partner with us in helping to repair the world and continue to strive for social justice.

In the pages to follow, you will read about incredible programs that excite us and about the people who inspire us to keep going. It is only through your support that we are able to challenge ourselves to grow and rise to the occasion to meet the varied needs of our community. We are proud of where we have come from and prouder still to know that our potential is limitless.

Amy Straus Ruth Zeitzew Hillary Selvin Board President Board President Executive Director 2010-2013 2010-2012

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 1 Our Community

Who are the people behind NCJW/LA? supplies for NCJW/LA shelter programs, In Council House’s newly refurbished We are members, we are volunteers, we and no-sew blankets for a variety of shelter auditorium on April 11, NCJW/LA are supporters, we are women making and hospice programs. presented its Annual Women’s Seder, a difference. NCJW/LA is dedicated and bringing together almost 100 members and Volunteers are at the core of NCJW/LA, passionate about our commitment to guests to observe Passover with a unique and more are always needed. In August, women, children, and families in need and celebration of women. Mothers, daughters, NCJW/LA held its annual Volunteer at risk throughout Los Angeles through grandmothers, and granddaughters came Open House at Council House. Current our vision, action, and service. together to enjoy a service filled with volunteers and NCJW/LA staff introduced special traditions such as an orange on The Women Making A Difference 70 prospective volunteers to the many the seder plate and the four questions (WMD) groups in the City and Agoura opportunities available, including the Art asked by daughters and granddaughters. Hills continue to thrive. A new group began Pals, Light Up A Library, Art Bridges Culture, Special thanks to the event’s sponsors, this year within the Vista Val Division with After School Homework Club, Teen Mom underwriters, and supporters: Amy and daytime meetings. Meeting monthly, WMD Tutoring, Counseling Talkline, Courtwatch Jeffrey P. Straus, Anita Aratow, Deborah volunteers in all three groups do “Mitzvot program, Scholarship, Advocacy, Outreach, Berger, Suzanne and David Buckholtz, & Merlot” community service projects as and other Committees, and Council Pamela and Zachary Brown, Dorothy S. well as projects with partner agencies. Even Thrift Shops. Gould, Merryll and Robert Klausner, Milken though they have little time, these dynamic The Vista Val Division in the Valley Family Foundation, Mount Sinai Memorial and energetic women come together to continues to meet at Temple Judea in Parks & Mortuaries, Beverly Mushinsky, do a mitzvah and make an impact in the Tarzana for its Monday afternoon meetings. Cipra Nemeth, and Allison Schwarz. community as well as make new friends. In addition to social and cultural oppor- Projects included NICU parent care kits tunities, including Art, Book Discussion, for Kaiser Permanente, birthday bags for Jewish Studies, Movie Discussion, Woman to JFS Hirsh Family Kitchen at-home clients, a Woman, and World Affairs special interest book drive and bookmarks for participants groups and educational trips, it offers the in NCJW/LA Women Helping Children and newly formed Women Making A Difference Women Helping Women programs, rainy group. Vista Val’s once-a-month general day packets for SOVA clients, Mishloach meetings offered a variety of speakers, and Manot Purim packets and a seeds-to-plants proceeds from its spring and fall luncheons project for senior residences, kitchen kits helped fund the programs and services for LA Family Housing, back-to-school provided by NCJW/LA. Vista Val members continued to support Women Helping Children’s Light Up a Library program through book drives. The 2012 Seder Committee (left to right): NCJW/LA’s Life Members are Lysa Stone, Chair Pamela Brown, Director multigenerational. The annual Life Member of Membership and Outreach Susan Sysler, Suzanne Buckholtz, and Sharon Lore Weiss Reception was held at Council House in November to show appreciation to these members for their continuing support and In June, 100 guests gathered at Council offer them an opportunity to connect and House for the NCJW/LA Annual Women Making a Difference in the West learn more about what NCJW/LA has Meeting, which included installation of the Valley/Agoura Hills assembled “kitchen kits” new Board of Directors and officers, the for women at Haven Hills transitioning into accomplished. Volunteer Awards, and donor recognition. their own apartments after being homeless.

2 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 WMD Makes a Difference to SOVA’s Clientele

Women Making a Difference groups in the City and Agoura Hills meet monthly to make an impact, make new friends, and aid our community, and they have produced several community service projects benefiting JFS/SOVA. Though the Hebrew word sova means “eat and be satisfied,” SOVA is much more than a food pantry; it provides free groceries and an array of supportive services to nearly 12,000 individuals of all ages, ethnicities, and religions each month. JFS/SOVA Metro Pantry Manager Lynda Alter has seen firsthand how Women Making a Difference projects have benefited the agency. “The first project was a picture booklet, which was a brilliant idea. We have a diverse clientele, and this enabled us to communicate in several languages by looking The incoming NCJW/LA Board of Directors, installed by Capt. Kelley Fraser at pictures in addition to the wording of all the (at podium) at the Annual Meeting on June 3 products we have available. It came in handy both for the clients and for our intake volunteers, helping speed up our intake process. Most importantly, it The guest speaker was Abby J. Leibman, President and CEO of MAZON: helps ensure that each client leaves with exactly the A Jewish Response to Hunger, who inspired and motivated our members food they want.” and volunteers. Captain Kelley Fraser of the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Two other WMD projects, rainy day packets and Station installed the 2012–2013 Board. During a Special Rededication of toiletry kits, were especially helpful for SOVA’s the auditorium, recognition was given to donor and longtime member homeless clientele. “This was an unexpected Rose Norton and her family, whose contributions made the remodel surprise that was appreciated with gratitude. Items possible.Thank you to Annual Meeting sponsors and underwriters Amy like these are so important to people living on the and Jeffrey P. Straus, Cheryl Abrams, Suzanne Buckholtz, Peggy Shapiro, street who seldom have the money to buy them,” Merle Siegel, Deborah Berger, Zachary Brown, Mike Brownstein and Eva Lynda says. “JFS/SOVA appreciates and applauds Mezey, Eileen and Howard Buckholtz, Irv and Kate Losman, Mary Losman, NCJW/LA and Women Making a Difference for all Beverly and Allen Mushinsky, and Brenda and Bob Sandler. your efforts in helping us serve our community.” NCJW/LA continued to expand its visibility in the community using social media such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. The outreach program at Council Thrift Shops continued to bring in new members and donors. SOVA Metro Pantry’s assistant manager, Dennis (center), with SOVA volunteers Throughout the year, Membership and Outreach volunteers and staff members participated in many community events, including the West Hollywood Healthy Children’s Fair, West Hollywood Senior Health Fair, West Hollywood Book Fair, SoRo Festival, Celebrate Israel Festival, Jewish Executive Leadership Conference, Jewish County Fair and Tu B’Shvat Nature Fest at the Shalom Institute in Malibu, and other events where NCJW/LA distributed information and continued reaching out and responding to the needs of the community.

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 3 Jewish Women’s Conference of Southern California

NCJW/LA presented the first ever Jewish Women’s Conference of Southern California on October 30 at Council House. The mission of the conference is to strengthen the power of multigenerational Jewish women in Southern California by empowering, educating, inspiring, and connecting them through outreach, activism, and awareness. More than 200 women came together to interact, learn, and network with leaders who make a difference in the world everyday. With the support of NA’AMAT USA Western Area and Hadassah Southern California, NCJW/LA brought together Opening Keynote Speaker Mayim Bialik well-respected speakers and educators reminiscing about her grandmother during to help lead workshops about protecting her talk on “The Power of Jewish Women” women’s rights, issues facing women in Israel today, health care policies, and ways Throughout the day there was discussion to make a difference through social action. of how women have expanded their personal paradigm to affect change. In Actress Mayim Bialik, best known for her the closing session on Jewish women roles in “Beaches,” “Blossom,” and “The Big founders, a panel of visionary leaders Bang Theory,” was the opening keynote related how and why they established speaker. Wearing her grandmother’s their organizations. Everyone left the event sweater, she shared anecdotes of Jewish educated, empowered, and inspired and women who impacted her life and looking forward to future conferences and addressed the importance of being a workshops. positive Jewish female role model. In a post-event survey of the attendees, The lunchtime keynote speaker was Julie over half said the conference inspired them Stern, senior vice president of production to connect with other Jewish women, 76% at OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. Julie said it inspired them to take action in their spoke to the power of maintaining a community, and nearly half said it inspired personal dream, trusting your inner self, and them to take action by fulfilling their the philanthropic power women hold in personal goals. our community. Lunch Keynote Speaker Julie Stern (center, The Jewish Women’s Conference of in white jacket), Senior Vice President of Southern California is now an annual event. Production for OWN: Oprah Winfrey For information on future conferences Network, greeting conference attendees. and programs, visit www.jwcsc.org or call 855-592-7218.

4 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Leah Weiner: Conference Sparked Idea for the Emma Fellowship

For attendee Leah Weiner, the conversations at the Jewish Women’s Conference about women in leadership, reproductive rights, and social justice opened her eyes to “how women across generations were making a difference in the community.” At the closing session, NCJW/LA Executive Director Hillary Selvin’s parting Leah Weiner words “Now, go do something!” struck a chord, and Leah left the conference inspired to take action. A couple of days later, Leah approached NCJW/LA with the idea to create a community for Jewish women Conference Co-Chairs (left to right) Hilary Botchin of NA’AMAT leaders across generations that focused on professional USA/Western Area, Amy Straus of National Council of Jewish advancement. The result was a program partnership Women/Los Angeles, and Niki Stokols of Hadassah Southern between the Emma Fellowship and the Jewish Women’s California with NCJW/LA Executive Director Hillary Selvin Conference. Leah says she launched the Emma Fellowship because she had “a strong desire to learn from other accomplished women in Los Angeles and increase the visibility of women leaders.” She developed the initial program model as part of her doctorate in organizational leadership from Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology. In June, the Fellowship completed its three-month pilot with 10 outstanding and accomplished Jewish women leaders between the ages of 27 and 77. The women learned how to successfully renegotiate their salaries and secure new executive-level positions that allow for greater work-life flexibility. Continuing its partnership with the Jewish Women’s Conference, the Emma Fellowship will be presenting The “Protecting Women’s Rights” workshop with (left to right) a year-round series of professional-development moderator Abbe Land and panelists Laurie Levenson, Robin Sax, programs for Jewish women on topics such as risk- and Joyce Schorr. taking and brand-building as well as a workshop at the 2012 conference on lessons learned in the workplace.

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 5 Women Helping Women

Never worry about numbers. Women Helping Women ~ Community The success of WHW programs is not Help one person at a time, Counseling & Support Services (WHW) is measured in quantity, but in quality, and in driven by the organizing belief that people the outcomes for individuals, families, and and always start need people, and that human connection the community. And yet the numbers do with the person nearest you. is essential to individual empowerment, tell a story. In the 2011-2012 fiscal year: mental health, and emotional healing. That XX20 students of all ages were supported ~ Mother Teresa belief is put into practice by the program’s in achieving their dreams through dedication to responding flexibly to the education by receiving a Women needs of those who are overwhelmed and Helping Women Scholarship. underserved. XX17 volunteers collected 294 WHW strives to provide the highest observation forms for the Court Watch quality services to every individual who research project, to assist the Family calls the Counseling Talkline, participates Court Advocacy Project in examining in therapy, applies for a scholarship, or the needs of domestic violence receives emergency services, regardless survivors in family courts. of their ability to pay. Every community member is treated as the unique person XX156 community members received they are, and every program and service is help coping with depression, anxiety, individualized to respond to the particular trauma, grief, domestic violence, child needs of each woman, man, child, and abuse, sexual assault, relationship family who reaches out for help. WHW’s problems, and other life challenges, dedicated volunteers, therapists, and MSW through WHW’s sliding-scale therapy interns are devoted to meeting the needs program, most of them for free. of each client with compassion for their XX586 community members received personal struggles and appreciation for emergency assistance, allowing them their unique strengths and resilience. to stay in their homes, get to a vital medical appointment or job interview, feed their families, or give their children gifts for the holidays. XX1,254 callers in need of assistance with financial, legal, medical, mental health, and relationship issues received support, resources, and referrals from WHW’s 20 compassionate paraprofessional Talkline Counselors. XX5,000 community members received a total of 85,000 pieces of clothing, and information about 16 local agencies that Women Helping Women’s clinical social work staff includes (left to right) Stephanie Flournoy, could assist them with vital services, by MSW, MPH, Abha Verma, MSW, Director Ava Rose, LCSW, Cynthia Haas, MSW, and Kim Dittu, attending the Annual Clothing Giveaway MSW. Not pictured: Rachel Woodhull, MSW, Dawn Zeinert, LCSW, and Leah Ziskin Kaufman, in December. LCSW.

6 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Prototypes: A Safe Place for Women’s Empowerment

XX$7,548 was raised by WHW’s Fundraising Committee and volunteers in support of the Emergency Survival Fund. But the most important number is one: One caller who receives a counselor’s undivided attention as she finally unburdens her grief over the death of her son. One gift bag to allow a widowed father to brighten his children’s holiday. One homeless person who receives a free outfit WHW Domestic Violence Services Coordinator Abha Verma, MSW (left), for a job interview. And one empowered pictured with Prototypes Mental Health Clinician Mariya Bauer, facilitates mother who, through the support of groups at Prototypes twice a year, offering clients a safe and supportive her therapist, is able to stop the cycle of environment to engage in emotional reflection, processing, and expression. violence in her family.

One person is also all it takes to make Since 2009, WHW has filled gaps in local services by offering a difference in someone’s life, and in the Women’s Empowerment (WE) Share support groups at community. And one experience helping Prototypes, a shelter and drop-in center in Los Angeles that improve someone’s life is enough to give provides women struggling with substance abuse, mental illness, meaning to your own. Women Helping domestic violence, and other adversities a safe place to recover Women thanks all the volunteers, donors, and rebuild their lives. staff, and community members who make WHW the one place where those in need By creating opportunities for the women to share their struggles know they can turn. and support each other, the groups empower them to take the necessary steps on their journey of healing. According to a recent client, WE Share enabled her “to safely look at and talk about some deep things” and learn a lot about herself. The groups provide psychoeducation and assistance in developing coping skills. But most of all, says therapist and WE Share group facilitator Abha Verma, MSW, “We make sure they feel that we’re there for them and really care about meeting their needs. This group allows them to focus on themselves—something that many of these women have never been given the opportunity to do.” Mariya Bauer, MSW, a mental health clinician at Prototypes, says the WE Share group has been a wonderful experience for its clients. “This group has given them an additional safe and supportive environment to explore and gain insight into their Counseling Talkline Program Coordinator Dawn Zienert trauma and come together as a community to help heal. supervises volunteer Abby Krom. NCJW/LA has been a valuable part of the women’s experience while at Prototypes and we are thankful to have this partnership.”

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 7 Women Helping Children

children’s craft stations, a book giveaway, and an international food buffet. Proceeds raised support the residents and youth programs of Alexandria House. As Women Helping Children prepares for the 2012-2013 academic school year, its volunteers remain committed to providing art education in schools that have no funding or resources for the arts. WHC also will offer shelter-based after school tutoring and enrichment and continue to staff underserved school libraries.

Art Pal volunteer Karen Wollons assists third graders with their architecture project at Stanley Mosk Elementary School.

This year, with the help of more than Volunteers also provided academic 130 Women Helping Children (WHC) assistance and support to hundreds of volunteers, NCJW/LA provided programs youth through WHC’s After School that enriched the lives of over 5,600 youth Homework Club, Teen Mom Tutoring, in our schools and our community. and shelter-based Tutoring and Enrichment programs, which foster a Despite budget setbacks with the Los sense of personal responsibility for success, Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), build self-esteem, and boost confidence in WHC Light Up A Library volunteers the students’ ability to succeed. continued to inspire a love of reading by helping keep five LAUSD elementary In 2012, NCJW/LA was selected to be one school libraries open and accessible to of 5,000 book-givers during the first-ever children and by replacing lost and worn U.S. World Book Night. On April 23, books to expand the libraries’ collections. WHC volunteers and Alexandria House Teen Program participants had a great time In an effort to keep art education in promoting a love of literacy and distributing schools, volunteer “art educators” provided various titles to random patrons along the the Art Pals program to both third- streets of LA. and fourth-grade classes at participating schools. Art educators in the Art Bridges In June, NCJW/LA and Alexandria House Culture program encouraged students to collaborated to host an International celebrate the rich diversity and traditions Festival of the Arts. The event included of the people of Los Angeles through an art show featuring works from Art education is a creative outlet for the girls at interactive lessons and hands-on cultural Alexandria House youth and residents, McAlister High School in the San Fernando Valley. art projects from around the world.

8 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Grace Solano: Programs at Alexandria House Provided 13 Years of Inspiration

Living across the street from Alexandria House, 18-year-old Grace Solano became aware of NCJW/LA’s After School Programs at a young age. At five years old, she was a participant in the After School Program, and she later joined the Teen Program. According to Grace, “NCJW/LA and Alexandria House have helped me a lot throughout the years by being my support. The volunteers and staff always give us teens a helping hand, especially when others fail to do so.” Grace says that Kim Fay, Volunteer Coordinator of Alexandria House’s Teen Program, has been the inspiration in her life. “Kim Elaine Adler, Light Up a Library volunteer, reads to students at has known me ever since I was in kindergarten and taught me Reseda Elementary School. so much. A few years ago she started ‘Power of the Word,’ a writing workshop for the Teen Program, and many times she has been the only secret-holder I have. Her passion for us is so inspiring and so is her commitment to volunteering. She is there every Wednesday night.” A recent high school graduate, Grace is making plans to attend California State University, Los Angeles. She says the support she has received from the Teen Program continues even after graduation. “NCJW/LA and Alexandria House have provided college recommendation letters and still encourage me to do my best. The best help I can receive is being reminded that someone is always proud of me.”

Grace Solano and Alexandria House Teen Program Volunteer Coordinator Kim Fay at Grace’s high school graduation

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 9 Advocacy

The Advocacy Committee leads NCJW/LA’s efforts in the community by lobbying to support or oppose legislation, often joining forces with other coalitions and organizations to create broader

collective power. Our monthly series of Wider Bridge. Photo courtesyA of programs educates members and the general public about core issues through panel discussions. NCJW/LA entered the 2011–2012 program year in July with “Choice: An Interfaith Perspective.” In a panel discussion and hands-on workshops, Delegates of AILO (Alliance of Israeli LGBTQ Educational Organizations) stopped by Council religious leaders and others were taught House on March 7 during their North American visit to learn from different groups working to support LGBTQ youth, families, and inclusion. Pictured (left to right) are Avner Dafni, how to lobby in support of reproductive executive director of Israel Gay Youth; Irit Zviely-Efrat, CEO of Hoshen; Iris Sass Kochavi, a parent rights. representing Tehila (PFLAG); Adir Steiner, coordinator of City Pride Events-Tel Aviv; Shari Eshet, A powerful program on sexual and gender- director of National Council of Jewish Women’s Israel Office; Efrat Rotem, chair of Hoshen; Gal based violence faced by “War on Women Deutsch, program director of Israel Gay Youth; and Hillary Selvin, executive director of NCJW/LA. and Children: A Congolese Tragedy” In January NCJW/LA partnered for an informal discussion about human was held in August. A panel discussion with NARAL, California Latinas for rights in Israel’s multi-cultural moderated by West Hollywood City Reproductive Justice, Planned Parenthood democracy. Soon afterward, Councilmember John Heilman featured Los Angeles, and the Women’s representatives of three leading Israeli representatives of E.L.C.O.S., Jewish World Reproductive Rights Assistance Project LGBTQ organizations touring North Watch, and International Medical Corps. to present a program celebrating the America were guests of honor at an During Breast Cancer Awareness Month 39th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. enlightening and informative meeting in October, NCJW/LA partnered with NCJW/LA hosted that included elected February’s presentation addressed Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the City officials and leaders of major LGBTQ strengthening the safety net for victims of of West Hollywood to host our annual organizations. NCJW/LA also welcomed domestic violence and was one of the Breast Cancer Forum featuring speakers Shari Eshet, director of NCJW’s Israel best attended Advocacy events of the year. from Cedars-Sinai. Award-winning NBC4 Co-Anchor Colleen “Life on the Streets for Homeless Williams moderated a panel consisting of Women and Children” was addressed victim’s advocate and former prosecutor in a November program moderated by Robin Sax, Patti Giggans of Peace Over ABC7 Eyewitness News Reporter Leslie Violence, Terra Slavin of L.A. Gay & Lesbian Miller. It featured speakers from the Center, Debi Biederman-Ash, MFT, and Downtown Women’s Center, PATH, the NCJW/LA Women Helping Women Los Angeles Coalition to End Hunger and Director Ava Rose. Homelessness, the Los Angeles County Several events at Council House in Veterans Advisory Commission, and February and March focused on NCJW’s New Directions. close connection with Israel. We welcomed Actress/women’s right activist Tyne Daly Professor Nili Cohen of Tel Aviv University during the May 16 “War on Women” panel discussion 10 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 El Nido: A Safe Haven for At-Risk Youth

Office, Sharon Shenhav of the International From 1933 until the early 1950s, NCJW/LA operated a residential camp for Jewish Women’s Rights Project and Rabbi underprivileged and undernourished girls in the hills of Laurel Canyon as Denise L. Eger of Congregation Kol Ami, part of its Girl’s Service Bureau. The facility consisted of a three-wing building for a discussion on “ Women’s Rights with terraced grounds and a swimming pool, tennis court, barbeque, and play in Israel.” yards. The girls attended morning sessions at Wonderland Elementary School, ate lunch at the Lodge, took an afternoon nap, and then had the rest of the Members of the Advocacy Committee, afternoon free for arts and crafts, hiking, and minor chores. along with NCJW’s California State Public Affairs representatives and members of NCJW/LA Co-President Ruth Zeitzew, who was a resident at El Nido Camp in other California NCJW Sections, met in 1939, remembers her time there as “peaceful and pleasant, not unlike a Jewish Sacramento in April to lobby elected ‘Sound of Music.’ Surrounded by pine trees and eucalyptus, it was a pastoral, officialson issues of concern that pollution-free environment.” She says that most of the girls had never before centered on reproductive rights and been very far beyond their immediate neighborhood, and “life in this sylvan health care for women. NCJW/LA joined setting was a tranquil and welcome adventure. El Nido was an unforgettable members of the California Coalition for opportunity and it left each of us with a lifetime of happy memories.” Reproductive Freedom for one of its most In 1954, NCJW/LA opened a residential treatment center for older girls on positive and rewarding trips to date. South Normandie Avenue in Los Angeles. In the mid-1970s, El Nido built and For two days in early May, Advocacy operated three residential lodges for troubled teenage girls and also started Committee members and NCJW/LA an outreach program of preventive counseling for at-risk youth in Los Angeles volunteers conducted a voter- school districts. registration drive at Fairfax High El Nido became independent from NCJW/LA in 1978 and became known as School, signing up more than 150 students El Nido Services, providing a variety of counseling and social services from as first-time voters. newly established outpost offices to Los Angeles communities. Through the The year’s programs wrapped up in May mid-1990s, NCJW/LA volunteers tutored young mothers at these centers so with “War on Women” attacks against that they could graduate from high school. women’s health care and rights. Los Angeles Today called El Nido Family Centers, the agency serves a large, diverse Times columnist Sandy Banks moderated population of children, youth, and families through programs in four major a dynamic panel including actress/activist categories: teen family services, parent education and family development, Tyne Daly and representatives of ACLU youth development, and child abuse prevention and treatment. Beneficiaries California, Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, are low-income families living in some of the most disadvantaged communities and California NOW. throughout Los Angeles County. Far from its beginnings in Lauren Canyon, Future programming includes issues of El Nido still offers a safe haven for at-risk children. sexual abuse of women in the military, issues of concern to the LGBTQ As shown in this 1949 community, affordable health care for newspaper photo, regular women, domestic violence, and human meals at El Nido Camp trafficking. Through the Advocacy nursed undernourished girls back to health. Committee, NCJW/LA continues to present cutting-edge and topical programs to inform and educate.

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 11 Council Thrift Shops

Strong support and consistent contributions by Council Thrift Shop donors continued to help National Council of Jewish Women/Los Angeles further its mission. Here is a summary of Council Thrift Shops’ 2011–2012 accomplishments: XXWe have been creatively converting our locations, one by one, into more upgraded, well-merchandised stores. The new look attracts a larger customer base that may not have thought to shop at a Council Thrift Shop. The improved surroundings replicate the environment at conventional retail stores and are more enjoyable for shopping. Volunteers helped 2011 Clothing Giveaway visitors find the items they needed.

XXRemodeling of the “flagship” which should result in additional sales. XXCouncil Thrift Shops’ new eBay site Council Thrift Shop in Los Angeles on The grand opening was planned for (www.ebay.com/sch/ncjwla/m.html) Santa Monica Blvd. at Veteran included November 2012. sold more than 3,000 items in its first new fixtures, lighting, and paint. Signage six months of operation. XXThe “Best of the Best” sales events on the outside of the store also was continued to be a fabulous shopping X upgraded to make this location more XTo raise awareness of the need for experience for savvy Thrift shoppers. visually appealing. increased donations, Council Thrift Held five to six times per year at eight Shops continued to advertise in XXPlans were begun for relocation of locations, they have become the must- the Jewish Journal, TRIBE magazine, the North Fairfax store to a new go-to Thrift store sales event. Performances theater magazine, space with increased square footage, Hollywood Bowl program, Los Angeles more visibility, and increased parking, Times, and Los Angeles magazine and on Laemmle Theatre screens and also ran a 30-second commercial on cable The remodeled television during the holiday season. Veteran store features new signage XXThe Council Thrift Shops website and Council Thrift (councilthrift.com) went live in late Shop’s signature Art November. In addition to a weekly Deco murals. blog about fabulous finds at Best of the Best events, it includes an event listing, contact information and maps for all nine stores, a link to our eBay store, donation guidelines, and information on how to schedule a pickup by phone or online.

12 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Clothing Vouchers Put Homeless on the PATH to Self-Sufficiency

XXThrough NCJW/LA’s free Clothing Voucher program, Council Thrift Shops gave clothing to more than 2,500 in-need and at-risk individuals in our community. The vouchers are distributed through a number of nonprofit agencies with which NCJW/LA partners, including PATH, SOVA Community Food & Resource Program, Haven Hills, and LA Family Housing. XXThe Annual Clothing Giveaway held in December distributed more than 85,000 pieces of clothing to over 5,000 individuals and families in need with the help of hundreds of volunteers. Thank you to our generous donors, who give even when giving is difficult. Revenues from sales of donated fashions and furniture provide more than 75% of the revenue for NCJW/LA’s programs and services. Juan Jr. and his son visiting the PATHMall to access a variety of supportive services, Council Thrift Shops is as relevant today as from basic needs such as showers, meals, and clothing vouchers to comprehensive case it has ever been in its history. As we move management, employment services, and health care. forward, your generosity leads the way to a bright future. People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) is among 20 local social services agencies with which NCJW/LA partners to provide free clothing vouchers to in-need and at-risk individuals. The vouchers are used at one of NCJW/LA’s nine Council Thrift Shops by people who are returning to the workforce or need back-to-school clothing for their children. PATH was founded in 1984 by a community collaborative of churches, synagogues, businesses, and concerned citizens to address the problem of homelessness in Los Angeles. With the clothing vouchers, NCJW/LA contributes to PATH’s mission to break the cycle of homelessness by empowering people with the tools for self-sufficiency. According to PATH CEO Joel Roberts, “We are truly grateful for our partnership with NCJW/LA. The voucher program not only gives our clients access to resources they might not otherwise have, it brings us closer to our ultimate goal of ending homelessness for individuals, families, and communities This ad in the Hollywood Bowl throughout Southern California.” program encouraged concert-goers to donate to Council Thrift Shops.

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 13 Debbi Gruenberger: Scholarship Facilitates Scholarship Program Mid-Life Career Change

For more than 20 years, the Women Lawrence-M.R. Bauer Foundation Helping Women Scholarship Committee Nursing Studies Scholarship and The In some ways, Debbi has empowered students to pursue Sherman and Frances L.Teller Teachers Gruenberger’s story their dreams and build a better life for Scholarship typifies the themselves and their families. WHW XXJackie Goldberg ~ The Sol Goldberg challenges that many Scholarship recipients are nurses, teachers, Childcare Subsidy American women vocational students, single mothers, and face today. Growing women in mid-life. Some are men or XXAlan Greenstadt ~ The Sophie up, Debbi struggled women who were born into poverty; Greenstadt Scholarship for Mid-Life in school because of others found themselves unexpectedly Women a learning disorder Debbi Gruenberger, winner struggling due to job loss, illness, or and thought a of the 2012 Sophie XXSuzanne and Stan Caplan ~ The Ellis Greenstadt Scholarship for domestic violence. Each of them has college degree was Scholarship for Childcare Mid-Life Women overcome obstacles that might have left not within her reach. others hopeless and found the courage XXThe Dodell Family ~ Dodell Women’s She married and to imagine a better future. Fortunately, the Empowerment Scholarship became a homemaker, raised a son with Scholarship Committee was there to help. XXMary Smart and Sylvia Schulman ~ ADHD, endured an emotionally traumatic This year, the Scholarship Committee The Susan Schulman Begley Memorial divorce, and supported several friends awarded a total of $30,000 to 20 Scholarship through their battles with breast cancer. impressive recipients, thanks to our XXSylvia Schulman ~ The Samuel Schulman While these challenging experiences generous donors: Memorial Scholarship are not uncommon, Debbi’s resolve and XXDiane Nosseck ~ The Singerman/ resilience have been anything but typical. And thanks to the generosity of Stephen Nosseck Memorial Scholarship Not only did she learn to cope with her Teller and Richard Hotson, the new son’s disorder, Debbi formed a nationally XXJune Miller ~ The June Miller Nursing Stephen L. Teller & Richard Hotson recognized support group for parents of Education Scholarship TV and Cinema Scholarship will award children with ADD/ADHD. She overcame $1,000 to community college students XXThe Family of Fran Teller ~ The Inger her fear of going back to school—and preparing for a career in film or television even more, she excelled in her classes and production. Thank you to Stephen and obtained an Associate’s degree. Richard for creating this opportunity to support an iconic and vital industry in the Facing financial hardship after her husband Los Angeles area. was forced into early retirement, Debbi was inspired to pursue a second career. She You too can help. This is what it takes to now is in her final year of the Radiology help sustain the Scholarship Program: Technologist Program at Moorpark College, XXA commitment of 20 hours per year to with an emphasis in Mammography in be a scholarship reader XXAndhonor as littleof several as a single friends NCJW/LA who had won and trlostibute the battle with breast cancer. WHW XXA minimum donation of $5,000 to proudly awarded Debbi with this year’s Scholarship Committee members (front row, establish a new scholarship, and a To findSophie out Greenstadthow you can Scholarship contribute, for Mid-Life left to right) Elizabeth Triplett, WHW Director commitment to maintain a balance of contactWomen. the WHW Scholarship Ava Rose, Barbara Fogel, and Nancy Scher, $2,500 in the fund Coordinator at 323-852-8515 or whw@ and (back row) Pamela Brown, WHW Vice ncjwla.org.“NCJW/LA’s generosity is allowing me to President Shelli Dodell, Chair Diane Nosseck, XXAs much as you can give to help sustain complete my studies,” says Debbi. and Brenda Brahms. Not pictured: Jackie a current scholarship Goldberg and Peggy Shapiro.

14 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Donors

Thank you to all of our Robert and Merryll Klausner Elizabeth Morris Elizabeth Ginsburg supporters, who have helped Milken Family Foundation NA’AMAT USA/Western Area Cindy Hodosh change the lives of women, Marie Monsod Sandy Nahan Lorraine Joffe children, and families with Beverly Mushinsky C. Jean Pearlstein Mary Joyce Johnson their generosity. Cipra Nemeth and Irene Perer Marcia Jones Scott Shulman Barbara Pine Helen Kozberg $10,000 and above Diane Nosseck Religious Coalition for Joanne Kravitz Bank of America William O’Neil Reproductive Choice Carol Kruvant-Pullman O’Neil Securities, Inc. Bank of America Charitable Barbara Rothstein Julie Leeds Foundation, Inc. Anne Pfeffer Leanore Saltz Alan Livingston City of West Hollywood RBZ, LLP Sonia Schneider Rosalie Lurie M.R. Bauer Foundation, Lea Rosendahl Ellen Schnur Patricia Mann Stephen L. Teller SDC Millworks, Inc. Peggy Schwartz Alla Matveyenko June Miller Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Hillary Selvin and Janet Meltzer Modestus Bauer Foundation, Merle Siegel Bonnie Anderson Greg Orshansky Stephen L. Teller Southern California Media Group Marla Smith Sophia Orshansky Rose Norton Carolyn Spiegel Lotte Sohn Arlene Paster Southern California Gas Stratton-Petit Foundation Julie Summers Andrew Pomerantz Company Ruth Sugerman The Center For Early Education Carol Reich Amy and Jeffrey P. Straus Stephen L. Teller and The Veggie Grill, Inc. Fradya “Freddie” Rembaum William O’Neil & Company Richard Hotson Venbrook Insurance Carla Saliba Renee Tener-Hertzberg Westside Jewish Janine Sands $5,000–$9,999 Lenore Wax Community Center Barbara Sant Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Rebecca Lyn Wayne Ruth Williams Rikki Sax Downtown Women’s Center Westside Food Bank Zeesman Communications, Inc. Nancy Scher Maris S. Cuneo Foundation Yaspan Unterberg Foundation Ruth Zeitzew Peggy Shapiro Robin Sax and Andrew M. Talma Zelitzki Katzenstein $250–$499 Steven Shatz The Berry Gordy Family $500–$999 Jean Aaron Hildi Smith Foundation Adams Fund Cheryl Abrams Laura Snoke Alexandria House American Express Company— Bella Stavchansky $1,000–$4,999 Millie Allinson Employee Giving Program Joannie Summers Bertram Amiri Deborah Berger Connie Bell Diane Chavez Sunderland Anita Aratow Howard Boris Donna Benjamin Susan Sysler Leah Bergman Mark Brown Dana Bigman Lilith Terry Suzanne and David Buckholtz City National Bank Betsy Blechman Marian Zachary CPEhr Phyllis Colman Bloomingdale’s Century City Allen Zatkin Cannon Family Foundation Rochelle Dube Lonni Brill Marilyn Ziering Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc. Holly Fader Lance Brown $50–$249 Amber Cohen Gale Frankfurter Pamela Brown AAA Flag & Banner Mfg. Co. Gail Cohen Pearl Glick Susan Bryant-Deason Susan Abisror Ann Dach Carol A. Halperin Circadian Rhythms Linda Abrams The Dodell Family Susan Isaacs Olivia Cohen-Cutler Sylvia Abrams Jacqueline Goldberg JPMorgan Chase Susan Corby Brenda Abramson Howard Heitner Candyce Jenkins Diana Crothers Glenn Ackerman Hillside Memorial Park Helen Katz Denise Eger & Mortuary William Adelman Karen Kent F & H Sinclair Properties Patricia Hubbard Merle Adelstein Patricia Kourt Marci Foster Joseph Hoyt Foundation, Jean Gaynor Thelma Alper Phyllis Cohen Myra Morewitz Julie Gertler Miriam Altschuler

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 15 Donors

Thelma Altshul Arline Edelbaum Grace Gross Ruth Lerner Rachel Andres Sylvia Edelstein Debbie Grossman Linda Lessing Arlene Aronson Marcia Edmond Gini Gruber Florence Levin Sally Assin Alison Eichberg Hadassah Emek Ha Ilanot Group Gail Levine Lee Baca Sharon Elson Hadassah Southern California Jack Levine Robert Bagby Karen Engelhardt Reesa Hahn-Manning Betty Levinson Allyson Bailey Lidia Epelbaum Michelle Haines Fan Levy Renne Bainvoll Jean Ernstein Dale Halperin Lillian Levy Jennifer Baronoff Susan Ettinger Barbara Haskin Lois F. Levy Allie Barrie Kimberly Kristine Fay Kristina Heckart Bette-Jane Licht Krom Joan Bauman Anna Feig Kaitlin Henry Lauren Gale Linde Ada Bender Helene Feingold Fern Heyman Judith Lipkin Jeanne Berger Lisa Feldman Jerry Himelfarb Mathilde Lombard Eileen Berkowitz Karen Figilis Ruth Hoffman Sharon Lore-Weiss Anne Bernstein Betty Finkel Robert Hoo Elaine Lubkin Arlene Bernstein Jodi Finkel Lindsey Horvath Fran Lyons Harriette Bernstein Judith Firestone Niki Horwitch Esther Macner Marilyn Bigman Judy Fisher Leonard Hyman Sandy Malis Linda Binder Mary Fisher Natalie Issner Elliot Mandwelle Julie Book Muriel Flagg Naomi Jacobs Gilda Mann Sandra Borak Patricia Flagg Cory Jakl Dorothy Manolson Esther Bormaster Susie Forer-Dehrey Jimena, Inc. Taryn Maraine Clare Bronsen Dolores Forster Denise Kadunc Paula Marcus Diana Brown Marilyn Friedberg Rosalind Kagel Leslie Margolis Heather Brown Leslie Friedman Cyndee Kahn Jacqueline Marquez Jill Brown Gayla Gabriel Kimberly Kandel Eve Marsh Michael Brownstein Vivian Gall Barbara Kar Hilary Matthews Betty Jane Bruck Ron Galperin Vivian Kassel Grace May-Levine Marcia Burnam Judy Galperson Beverly Katz Rena Maymudes Gloria Burney Sallye Gauthier Elinor L. Kaufman Judith Meisels Miriam Cantor Leslie Gersicoff Mary Keyes Michelle Melany Sandra Cantrell Marilyn Giorgio Danny Khoshnood Paul Menes Janet Change Jean Gitlin Arlene Klein Marlene Miller Harriet Chase Jill Glasband Naomi Klein Erin Mills Phyllis Chavez Francesca Glassenberg Gentille Koosed Gail Mintz-Goodman Leonor Chernila Zita Gluskin Rosina Korda Suzanne Morden Jean Cohen Donna Gold Hallie Kraft Eleanor Morris Leona Cohen Victoria Gold Loris Kramer-Lunsford Geraldine Moscowitz Marjorie Cohen Coralie Goldsmith Annette Kulik Tobey C. Moss Shirley Cohen Esther Goldsmith Monica Lacher Esther Mueller Rita Collins Frances Goldsmith Laura Lake Faina Nadgornaya Karen Constine Toni Goldstein Linda Lawrence Phyllis Nelson Nita G. Corinblit Viti Golomb Karen Leaf Laurel Newmark Joan Degelsmith Linda Goodman-Pillsbury Jacqueline Lederfine Betty Jane Neymark Susan Demskey-Horiuchi Annette Gottlieb Karen Lee Rosy Nissan Marion Diamond Halle Gould Stan Lee Marcy Norton Sharon Donnan Wendy Graf Moselle Leland Barbara Oberman Sofiya Dubinsky Kim Greene Ruth Lenorovitz Maureen Odel

16 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Judith Okun Ethel Seid Steve Wayland Jeffery Openden Joan Seidel Evelyn Weinstein Roberta Ozanich Evelyne Shabo-Elbaum Sandra Weinstock Patricia Pappler Linda Shapero Robin Weisz Join the Second Joannie Parker Lisa Shapiro Sally Wilk Century Society Jenethen Pearl-Angulo Melissa Shearn Allyne Winderman Adele Pearlstein Geri Sherman Edward Withrow, III To ensure that the work of Joan Peltin Syvia Sherwood Joan Wolf National Council of Jewish Silvia Perchuk Rachel Simon Judith Wolf Women/Los Angeles will Catherine Perriott Jami Simons Kenneth Wolf continue well into this century, Ronald Phillips Charlotte Sinay Kevin Wolf we invite you to become part of Benjamin Pohn Cindy Singer Rachel Wolff our future. No matter your age, means, or walk of life, including Kim Pomerantz Sandra Singer Rosemarie Wolff NCJW/LA in your estate David Pratt Skirball Cultural Center Judith Wollman plans—through a will, retirement Madeleine Rackley Sklar Law, P.C. Sylvia Wollner plan, charitable gift annuity, fully Priscilla Rambar Laura Slovin Michael Wynn paid insurance plan, or trust— Ruth Reis Maxine Smith Barbara Yaroslavsky you can add your legacy to ours. Annette Renwick Hortense Snower Sarah Yucht Shelley Resnik Theodore Snyder Sandra Zack The Second Century Society Samuel Rivkin Albert Solomon Nima Zargari was established to celebrate Ada Roberts Dana Solomon Alan Zimmerman those individuals who have Ninette Root-Golub Lorri Spiegel Mollie Zucker included NCJW/LA in their Sandra Rosenbaum Fran Spitzer Rhonda Zucker estate plans. By being added Amy Rosenman Andrea L. Stanley Jane Zuckerman to NCJW/LA’s Second Suzanne Rosenthal Jean Staub Century Registry, you can be Sharon Rosi Ilse Stein The National Council of Jewish acknowledged today for your Barbara Rostand Marlene Stein Women/Los Angeles also thanks future commitment. You can join the many individuals who made the society by naming National Trisha Roth Paige Sternin contributions of less than $50. Lauren Rothman Karen Stigler Due to space constraints, we are Council of Jewish Women/Los Janice Rubin Lysa Stone unable to list them individually. Angeles in your will or living Lorin Ruttenberg Katsuo Suzuki trust or as a beneficiary of your Marilyn Ryback Andrea Swerdlow life insurance policy. Linda Saltzman Janet Sylvester For more information or to Anthony Sands Melinda Tannenbaum let us know that you have Rayna Saslove Louise Teeter remembered NCJW/LA in Sheila Sauber Sidney Tessler your will or bequest, please Marilyn Sayegh The Comcast Ventures Team contact the Development Helene Schacter Tiara Gifts, Inc. Department at 323-852-8507 Schacter Orthodontics ADC Sandy Tilsen or [email protected]. Michele Schaffer Patricia Titus Patricia Schiller Rachel Tobal Alice Schoenwald Melanie Tucker-Rovin Marilyn Schreiber Emily Tugendhaft Dalhia Schuette Marsha Turow Sylvia Schulman Marlene Varnen Flori Schutzer Paula Verbit Pam Schwartz Laura Wallace Ann Segal-Benson Janet Waxman

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 17 National Programs

In communities across the country and is necessary for women’s well-being and progressive policy solutions that champion around the globe, National Council of equality. Plan A mobilizes the faith-based women’s economic autonomy. Jewish Women’s work reflects the spirit of and progressive communities as well as NCJW has fought throughout its history the organization itself—a powerful union the public at large to take action through for the protection of every woman’s right of forward-thinking ideals and Jewish values: a combination of education and advocacy. to reproductive choices, including safe A faith in the future. A belief in action. This initiative is poised to help individuals and legal abortion and the elimination and groups stand up and speak out. Across NCJW’s campaigns and initiatives champion of obstacles that limit reproductive the country, NCJW has begun to bring Plan progressive policies, help improve the lives freedom. These rights are integrally bound A into communities. From Pittsburgh to of women, children, and families through to religious freedoms – legislating one Phoenix, and St. Louis to San Diego, Plan local and federal-level advocacy work, and religious viewpoint on these very personal A advocates are educating themselves and provide educational resources and action issues would restrict religious liberty for all. engaging others around the five Plan A opportunities that enable NCJW members Voices for Reproductive issues: pharmacy refusals, comprehensive and supporters to maximize their impact as Choices is an emergency sexuality education, emergency agents of social change. action campaign designed contraception, affordable contraception, to help powerful NCJW In the United States, NCJW’s initiatives and young women’s access. advocates speak out against each focus on a set of key public policy Voting is the cornerstone of our current attacks to women’s reproductive issues and were developed to provide both democracy. That’s why, for decades, NCJW health and rights. Launched at NCJW’s the information and resources necessary advocates have fought for the expansion 45th National Convention in 2011, this to take action at all levels—from town of voting rights, advocating for women’s emergency campaign responds to the halls to the halls of Congress. By bridging suffrage, the historic Voting Rights Act series of three extreme anti-choice bills community service and national advocacy, of 1965, the Help America Vote Act of that are currently making their way through NCJW members are transforming these 1992, and more. Today, NCJW’s work to Congress. These attacks include the No programs into catalysts for progressive promote civic engagement takes the form Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act (HR 3), social change. of Promote the the Protect Life Act (HR 358), and the Title BenchMark: Vote, Protect the X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act (HR NCJW’s Vote 2012. This 217). While they differ in specifics, all three Judicial exciting initiative mobilizes NCJW sections, of these legislative measures would impose Nominations members, and supporters to work, in funding or coverage restrictions on critical Campaign accordance with the rules governing 501(c) health services, endanger women’s health, educates and mobilizes NCJW members, (3) tax-exempt organizations, to ensure limit women’s rights as moral decision- the Jewish community, and friends and allies that all eligible voters are able to vote and makers, and erode religious liberty by everywhere to promote a federal bench that every vote is counted. imposing one view of abortion. with judges who support fundamental Higher Ground: NCJW’s Domestic NCJW has been a leading organization constitutional freedoms, including a Violence Campaign is a national effort in supporting Israel for more than 60 woman’s right to reproductive choice. to end domestic years, helping lay the groundwork for Plan A: NCJW’s Campaign for violence by important social change efforts. We are Contraceptive Access aims to secure improving the now witnessing the evolution of Israeli and protect access to contraceptive economic status of society as more and more women demand information and options. A community- women. Grounded in the understanding their fair and equal rights amidst serious based, proactive national campaign, Plan A that economic security is critical to challenges to those rights. NCJW has long is firmly rooted women’s safety, Higher Ground educates been committed to advancing women’s in the belief and mobilizes advocates, community- status in Israel by helping women develop a that such access members, and decision-makers to promote stronger voice at all levels of society.

18 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 NCJW is a member of numerous to include women in conflict resolution coalitions that aim to ensure the rights processes, and the protection of agunot. and well-being of Israeli women, children, To address the critical challenges still and families, including the Israel Forum of facing women in Israel today, and to Foundations, the Inter-Agency Task Force promote further progressive action, NCJW on Israeli Arabs, and the International emphasizes empowerment and leadership Coalition on Agunot Rights (ICAR). programs for women and girls as well Through its coalition work, NCJW is as gender equality as the cornerstones actively involved in social action and of NCJW’s Israel Granting Program. advocacy issues in the areas of poverty and Grant recipients include organizations food insecurity; tolerance, co-existence, and and programs designed to address Israeli promotion of equal citizenship for Israeli women’s rights and well-being in areas like minorities; and children’s and women’s economics, politics, education, domestic empowerment, including the rights of violence, and social justice. Components agunot (women who are refused a get, or of the Israel Granting Program include Jewish divorce by their husbands), human Women to Women: NCJW’s trafficking, and the equal participation Empowerment Initiative and Yad B’ and representation of Israeli women in all Yad: NCJW’s Initiative to Nurture national conflict resolution processes. Knowledge. NCJW’s advocacy and coalition work is Today, strategic efforts like the Israel rooted in a commitment to advancing Granting Program and NCJW’s advocacy women’s status and rights in Israel by and coalition work continue in this spirit helping them develop a stronger voice of education and empowerment—helping on all levels of Israeli society, as well as advance the lives of women, children, and supporting at-risk populations, with a families and ensure Israel’s future. special emphasis on children. NCJW believes that Israel’s future as a Jewish state and a democracy lies in the freedom and capacity of its citizens to participate equally in its governance and welfare.

Since the state of Israel was From March 16 through 18 in New Jersey, established in 1948, NCJW NCJW leaders from all over the country has been working to ensure gathered for the 2012 training retreat. Pictured that all of its citizens enjoy with keynote speaker Gloria Feldt (second the same rights and opportunities. In recent from left) are (left to right) NCJW/LA Women months, NCJW’s members and supporters Helping Women VP Shelli Dodell, Executive have used the NCJW Action Center to Director Hillary Selvin, and Council Thrift VP contribute to this progressive agenda, taking Cipra Nemeth. Feldt, former president and action on a variety of issues, including: the CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, is the author of No Excuses: 9 Ways provision of nutritious meals for all school- Women Can Change How We Think About Power. aged children in Israel, promotion of equal access to opportunities for all Israelis, support for the implementation of laws

NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 19 Membership Dues Rental Special Events Income Financial Highlights (Net) Program Service Contributions Revenue and Bequests

Statement of Revenue and Expenses 2011–2012

Amount Percentage REVENUE Grants Revenue

Thrift Shop Net Income $1,693,988 74.0%

Grants 116,515 5.0% Thrift Shop Contributions and Bequests 293,235 13.0%

Special Events (Net) 75,130 3.5%

Membership Dues 18,840 1.0% Fund Development Program Rental Income 33,780 1.5% Management Services and General Program Service Revenue 48,187 2.0%

Total $2,279,675 100%

Expenses EXPENSES

Program Services $2,104,953 81%

Management and General 293,841 11%

Fund Development 202,867 8%

Total $2,601,661 100%

Advocacy Detailed Program Service Expenses Women Helping Women Children Helping Women Women Helping Women $1,350,425 64%

Membership and Outreach 328,215 16%

Women Helping Children 241,536 11% DETAILED Advocacy 184,777 9% PROGRAM SERVICE Total $2,104,593 100% EXPENSES

Membership and Leadership Development 20 NCJW/LA Annual Report 2011–2012 Board of Directors

Board of Directors 2012–2013 Board of Directors 2011–2012 Management Team

PRESIDENT CO-PRESIDENTS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Amy Straus Amy Straus Hillary Selvin Ruth Zeitzew VICE PRESIDENTS CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Sofiya Dubinsky Deborah Berger, Development & Outreach VICE PRESIDENTS Pamela Brown, Women Making a Difference Deborah Berger, Development & Outreach DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & Shelli Dodell, Women Helping Women Pamela Brown, Women Making a Difference COMMUNICATION Dana Bigman Susan Isaacs, Women Helping Children Shelli Dodell, Women Helping Women Susan Isaacs, Women Helping Children Cipra Nemeth, Council Thrift Shops DIRECTOR OF RETAIL OPERATIONS Rebecca Wayne, Advocacy Cipra Nemeth, Council Thrift Shops Robert Klausner Leanore Saltz, Advocacy SECRETARY DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & OUTREACH Phyllis Cohen SECRETARY Carrie Jacoves Rebecca Wayne PROGRAM DIRECTOR OF JEWISH WOMEN’S TREASURER CONFERENCE TREASURER Marla Smith Maya Paley C. Jean Pearlstein PARLIAMENTARIAN DIRECTOR OF WOMEN HELPING WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIAN Peggy Schwartz Ava Rose, LCSW Peggy Schwartz DIRECTORS DIRECTOR OF WOMEN HELPING CHILDREN DIRECTORS Anita Aratow Melissa Tillman Suzanne Buckholtz Anita Aratow DIRECTOR OF ADVOCACY Gail Cohen Jennifer Baronoff Ruth Williams Lorraine Joffe Suzanne Buckholtz Gail Cohen C. Jean Pearlstein OFFICE & FACILITIES MANAGER Phyllis Cohen Leanore Saltz Carole Pearson Nancy Scher Irene Perer Merle Siegel Merle Siegel Lotte Sohn Marla Smith Renee Tener-Hertzberg Lotte Sohn Ruth Zeitzew

© NCJW/LA 2012 Design: Robin Weisz Design Printed on recycled paper using soy-based ink The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots Los Angeles Section Office 543 N. Fairfax Ave. organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive Los Angeles, CA 90036 ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for 323-651-2930 fax 323-651-5348 social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, www.ncjwla.org and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. New York Headquarters 475 Riverside Dr., Suite 1901 NCJW’s Los Angeles section has been at the forefront of social New York, NY 10115 212-645-4048, 800-829-NCJW change for more than a century by providing the community with fax 212-645-7466 programs and services. Today, NCJW/LA serves more than 19,000 www.ncjw.org individuals each year by providing over 220,000 hours of Washington Office programs and services with the support of 600 volunteers. 1707 L Street, NW, Suite 950 Washington, DC 20036 202-296-2588 fax 202-331-7792 [email protected]

Israel Office NCJW Research Institute School of Education, Room 267 The Hebrew University Mt. Scopus Jerusalem Israel 91905 011-972-2-588-2208 fax 011-972-2-581-3264 [email protected]