FEATURED MEMBER

WHY WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY?

Get to know the women of Women’s Philanthropy as they share their personality, passion and purpose for being involved and connected to our wonderful community. Throughout the year, different women are highlighted as active participants of Women’s Philanthropy who make a difference every day in their own way for Jewish Austin.

Robyn Sperling

Interviewed by Suzanne Newberg

Suzanne Newberg: How did you get involved in Women’s Philanthropy?

Robyn Sperling: I got involved in Women’s Philanthropy at the suggestion of several friends. At the time, we were part of a new and growing Jewish community and I believe that many of us felt an obligation to give our time and energy to shape and support it. My journey began when I attended a parlor meeting and learned about Federation, philanthropic dollars and the incredible ways they can be used to impact the lives of others. Shortly after, I was asked to join the ECP board. The impact of these two opportunities was to begin my 30 year dedication to Jewish philanthropy. What began as a simple invitation became a lifelong passion for giving back and building community. 

SN: What are your goals for the next year?

RS: My goals for the next year are two-fold. First, I want to use my voice to make a difference. I am committed to speaking out against hate in all its forms, and spreading awareness about the rising threat of anti-semitism. By standing up for truth and justice, I aim to be a voice for the voiceless and an advocate for kindness and tolerance. Second, I am steadfast in my support for Israel, working to promote its values and defend its right to exist. I hope to inspire others to join me in building a more compassionate world for our future generations.

SN: What message would you like to share with other women?

RS: The message I want to share with all the incredible women reading this is simple: “Just say yes!”  Say yes to getting involved and being the catalyst for the change you wish to see. Say yes to stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new opportunities to make a difference. Say yes to advocating for the benefit of your community and standing up for what matters most. Teach your children the values behind your advocacy, and show them why attending meetings, standing up for causes and taking action are essential. Let them see the power of saying yes, because when we lead by example we inspire the next generation to do the same. Together we can shape a brighter future.

SN: What’s your favorite Jewish memory?

RS: Passover with family has always been a great joy, blending my love of family with the importance of tradition. I can still visualize Grandpa Plattner sitting at the head of the table, conducting his hours-long seder with his thick Yiddish accent. My mom, alongside her brother and sister, would bring the room alive with songs learned from the Talmud Torah. Their joyful voices blending together in beautiful harmony touched my soul. I always looked forward to the smell of matzoh ball soup and anxiously awaited the first bite of matzoh! The table was set with the finest china and the Afikomen was hidden in the same spot for decades! The Passover holiday has been my favorite ever since those early formative years, making an indelible imprint while deepening my love of Jewish tradition. 

SN: What has been your favorite Women’s Philanthropy event and why?

RS: My favorite Women’s Philanthropy event was the very first Mosaic Luncheon. It was an incredible experience from start to finish, filled with creativity and camaraderie. I still remember the joy of sitting with new and old friends while stuffing and stamping the invitations. We created beautiful vases adorned with mosaic tiles, each unique and different yet fitting together like a complete puzzle. And like those mosaic tiles, each of us was unique and different, yet together creating a community aligned in our values and purpose. The overwhelming success of that first luncheon has led to what is now an essential fundraising event for the Federation, and a wonderful opportunity for women in the community to get involved. I feel so blessed to have been a part of that luncheon.

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