Jewish Women’s Foundation Educational Programs

We create awareness of issues and needs facing Jewish women and girls through informal gatherings throughout the year and our signature event “Let’s Talk About It.” The annual event is a panel discussion of experts and community members discussing timely women’s issues. We focus on topics that may be difficult to discuss and present them in a safe, non-judgmental, confidential forum where the audience can feel comfortable asking questions and sharing experiences. Past topics have included LGBTQ+ Awareness, Substance Abuse, and Women’s Reproductive Health.

Previous Educational Programs 2018-2026

2026 JWF Premiere Event
Navigating Infertility in the Jewish Community

Across the Jewish community, more individuals and couples than ever are navigating infertility and alternative paths to parenthood. The Jewish Women’s Foundation heard and learned about this topic from guest panelists Elana Frank, Founder and CEO of the Jewish Fertility Foundation, Rabbi Yael Ridberg, Rabbi and Educator, Leorah Gavidor, Writer and Editor, and Dr. Laurie Greenberg, Obstetrician and Gynecologist. The program was moderated by Tina Beranbaum, JCF Chair and past JWF Chair.

2025 Annual Meeting
The Jewish Women’s Foundation (JWF) recently held their Annual Meeting to thank outgoing Chair Judi Gottschalk for her service and welcome incoming Chair Jane Fantel, who shared her vision for the future of JWF. Hosted by the La Jolla Institute of Immunology, Dr. Erica Ollmann Saphire and Dr. Anjana Rao shared about the institute and their groundbreaking research into the BRCA gene, which leads to increased rates of breast cancer in the Jewish community.

2025 Let’s Talk About It
Ethnic Studies – Facts, Fictions, Fears

Our panel of experts engaged in discussion about the timely and controversial topic of ethnic studies being taught in schools. Attendees learned about the origin of California’s graduation requirement, potential pitfalls of the legislation, and how they can get involved. We are so grateful to our fantastic presenters Tammi Rossman-Benjamin, Dr. Sara Brown, Shana Hazan, and Nicole Bernstein, and to JWF Council Member Marsha Sutton for facilitating the program.

Ethnic Studies Resources

2024 Grant Initiative Kick-Off Event
Dr. Monica Perlman shared her wisdom about three aspects of women’s health. We could feel the energy and enthusiasm in the air being surrounded by so many inspiring women. It was evident that everyone has interest in connecting with each other, and a commitment to empowering other Jewish women and girls.