“There is no future without our past.” Spoken word artist Vanessa Hidary, aka “The Hebrew Mamita,” shared these powerful words during her special performance at the Greater Miami Jewish Federation signature Women’s Event, which took place Thursday, October 22, 2020.  Actress, author and neuroscientist Mayim Bialik, in conversation with award-winning journalist Jeannette Kaplun Braun, shared her Jewish journey, her career path, her steadfast support of Israel and the importance of being involved in community.

With more than 1,000 guests registered, the event, chaired by Silvia Assor, brought the community together virtually for a meaningful morning in this unprecedented time.  Participants also learned of the many ways Federation is making a difference for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with its strong network of agencies to deliver critical programs and services from distributing kosher food and providing emergency financial assistance to responding to the overwhelming and rapidly increasing needs. Many of the people asking for help never imagined they would be in this position. Those who were once able to help, now need help. Guests responded to the call to action raising $1.8 million dollars for the Annual Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign to care for those in need, support more than 160 vital programs and strengthen Jewish life in Miami, in Israel and in more than 70 other countries around the world.

Ilene Kossman, Women’s Philanthropy President, and Tammy Woldenberg, Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair, both shared their pride in how Federation is always at the forefront ready to take action.

Federation gratefully acknowledges its 2021 Proud Business Partners for their generous support. Platinum Sponsors are Bilzin Sumberg; The Collection; Greenberg Traurig and Miami Herald; LSN Partners, Llorente & Heckler. Gold Sponsors are Accesso; Akerman; City National Bank; GL Homes; Kaufman Rossin; Kent Security Services;  Sapoznik Insurance & Associates. Silver Sponsors are JLL; Meland Budwick, P.A.; NFP, The Meltzer Group and Well Fargo. Bronze Sponsors are Aetna; Carlton Fields; Houlihan Lokey; Iberia Bank | First Horizon; MBAF CPAs and Advisors; Omnia Family Wealth and Singer Wealth. Pearl Sponsors are Addison House; Apollo Bank; Baptist Health; Dacra; H&CO, LLP a Global CPA Firm; Holland & Knight; Northern Trust Bank of Florida, N.A.; Perry Ellis International; Podhurst Orseck, P.A. and Siegfried Rivera.

For more information about the Greater Miami Jewish Federation or to get involved with Women’s Philanthropy, please visit JewishMiami.org or call 305.576.4000.

Although it was a virtual event, The Women’s Event was a meaningful and inspiring experience.