Lions are powerful and strong. Lions are leaders and take responsibility for their families and communities. Keeping this in mind, it is clear why this group of committed, philanthropic, dedicated, and generous women of our Federation is called the Lion of Judah. These Lions are symbols of strength and inspire us all to take responsibility and make our world a better place.
We sat down with Kathi Mangel to talk about what it means to be a Lion of Judah and why she can’t wait to go to Washington, D.C., this month to attend her first International Lion of Judah Conference.
How are you involved with the Federation?
“I am on the Women’s Philanthropy Board of The Jewish Federation Valley Alliance and I am a member of the Pomegranate Brunch Committee. I’ve been on two Missions so far with the Federation, and will attend the International Lion of Judah Conference this month. I make phone calls on Super Sunday and attend as many events as I can. I socialize with others who are involved with the Federation and enjoy spending time with like-minded individuals when it comes to important Jewish issues and Jewish philanthropy.”
How many years have you been a Lion?
“I became a Lion almost a year ago at the end of the Women’s Mission to Budapest and Israel.”
What inspired you to become a Lion?
“I became a Pomegranate a few months after my husband and I traveled to Israel on a Mission with the Federation. Both the Community Mission to Israel and the Women’s Mission opened my eyes to the way the Federation touches so many Jewish lives in so many different ways, and I felt that I needed to do more. I am so proud to be a Lion and feel that I am doing my part to support the local and worldwide Jewish communities in a way that is meaningful to me. The incredible work done by the Federation’s professional staff and by so many dedicated volunteers is an ongoing inspiration in my life.”
Are any of your family members Lions?
“I am the first woman in my family to become a Lion, but I hope that my daughters will be inspired to follow in my footsteps.”
What impact has being a Lion had on your life?
“My husband and I have always supported causes important to us, but my support of the Federation has special meaning. I have made important friendships with other Lions and feel that being a part of the Lion sisterhood is a way to expand my knowledge of the Jewish community. Through these relationships, I learn how to continue to help our community grow and thrive.”
What would you tell others who are thinking of becoming a Lion and attending future Conferences?
“The women that I have met through the Federation are some of the most caring, loving, smart, bright, hard-working people that I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. I learn so much at each Federation event, and I’m sure the International Lion of Judah Conference will be no exception. Plus, traveling with the Federation is always so much fun!”
What are you most looking forward to at the upcoming September Conference?
“Socializing with friends, meeting Lions from across North America, visiting with Israeli Lions that I met when I was there last year, and getting excited about another year of being a Lion of Judah!”
Lion of Judah recognizes all women who make a gift to Jewish Federation Los Angeles’ Annual Campaign in their own name of $5,000 or more. As part of an international organization that connects us to Lions around the world, all Lions can proudly wear a striking gold or platinum pin, highlighted with diamonds or rubies, marking their increased commitment to the work of our Federation.
To find out how to become a Lion, please contact: (818) 668-2340 or (323) 761-8275.
