Lion of Judah Endowment

Compassion. Strength. Leadership. A Lion of Judah embodies these values. Her passion drives her work and her giving, which helps sustain and build Jewish life—locally and around the world.

The strength and vitality of women’s giving continues through the Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE). Establishing a LOJE allows a woman the opportunity to take the extra step to ensure her gift continues into the future—m’dor l’dor—from generation to generation. It enables her to leave a legacy to safeguard the values she holds dear and that have inspired her own giving—such as strengthening social justice activities, healing the sick, preserving human dignity and providing Jewish education and growth for all. Today, 85 women in Greater Washington and 3,800 women worldwide have endowed their Lion of Judah gifts, representing over $620 million in assets.

Endow your gift and join us in celebrating 25 years of the Lion of Judah Endowment.

To learn more and create your Jewish legacy, contact Federation’s United Jewish Endowment Fund at [email protected] or 301-230-7230..

“It makes me proud to know that what I care about today will be taken care of tomorrow.”

Who can make a Lion of Judah Endowment commitment?

Every woman who can create a legacy designed to contribute $5,000 or more to The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington’s Annual Campaign can establish a LOJE—and add the prestigious Or L’Atid flame to her Lion of Judah pin—an internationally recognized symbol of dedication to the Jewish people.

Why should I establish a Lion of Judah Endowment?

Your LOJE helps The Jewish Federation prepare both for needs we can anticipate and those that are unexpected with a gift each year from your fund to the Annual Campaign in your name in perpetuity. Locally, LOJE funds provide services to those in need and enhance Jewish life through education and other community programs that bond us to our Jewish heritage. Worldwide, they help Israel flourish as a home and safe haven for Jews and other Jewish communities address critical needs. A LOJE is a powerful statement of your commitment to tzedakah, providing a legacy for family and community.

Lion of Judah Endowment donors–Forever Lions–enjoy an elite camaraderie and proudly wear a LOJE pin that announces to the Jewish world that they have taken action to ensure Jewish continuity and survival. You may also reduce your taxes.

How do I establish a Lion of Judah Endowment?

Establish a LOJE with a gift or gift plan of at least $100,000 to The Jewish Federation. Your LOJE can be created using almost any type of asset or gift plan, including bequests, life insurance, cash, or appreciated assets (common stock, small business interests, real estate, or bonds). We will invest your gift, ensuring that the income produced supports an Annual Campaign gift in your name each year. Your fund becomes a permanent resource for the Jewish community.

How can I create a Lion of Judah Endowment?

Whatever your estate planning and tax objectives may be, a LOJE can be designed to match your financial circumstances and achieve your philanthropic goals. You can make an outright gift to The Jewish Federation or take advantage of the tax benefits and convenience of one of the following:

    • Make a bequest in your will or living trust, creating a LOJE today at no cost to you now. (Call us for the language to create your LOJE.)
    • Name The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington as a beneficiary of your retirement fund. Retirement fund legacies are among the most tax-wise gift options available.
    • Name The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington as owner and beneficiary in your life insurance policy. An insurance policy is an economical way to fund a LOJE, particularly for younger women. Premiums can be tax deductible. For policies that qualify for our Key Donor Insurance Program, we will split the premiums with you.

To learn more and create your Jewish legacy, contact Federation’s United Jewish Endowment Fund at [email protected] or 301-230-7230.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington does not provide legal advice. Donors are encouraged to consult their independent tax and legal advisors.

“My LOJE is a way for me to honor my mother and set an example for my children and my community—passing our values on.”