Event Co-Chair Katie Dochen with her mom, Carol Dochen. This year’s Book Lover’s Luncheon features a mother-daughter story. Attendees are asked to submit their photos with women who have influenced their lives. Photo courtesy of Carol Dochen. 

By Arielle Levy

Austin’s temperatures may still occasionally feel like summer, but it’s clear that fall is in the air with the arrival of Book Lovers Luncheon, one of Shalom Austin Women’s Philanthropy’s largest events of the year. Part of the Shalom Austin Literary Series, in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council and City of Austin Economic Development Cultural Arts, Women’s Philanthropy shares a love of books with the community Thursday, Nov. 12, at noon. 

Each year, a special story is highlighted, whether it is from a cookbook, a coffee table book, or life-changing stories. This year brings New York Times bestselling author Myla Goldberg to town, at least virtually, to discuss her book “Feast Your Eyes,” a story about a female photographer who deals with motherhood and ambition, and how they can work together. 

Author Myla Goldberg. Self portrait.

Event Co-Chair Dana Shapiro Spaeth (center), with her daughter, Alana (left), and mother, Shirel (right). This year’s Book Lover’s Luncheon features a mother-daughter story. Attendees are asked to submit their photos with women who have influenced their lives. Photo courtesy of Dana Shapiro Spaeth.

Co-chaired by Katie Dochen and Dana Shapiro Spaeth, there is no doubt that the women in Austin’s community will continue to raise their hands and help keep this event the largest one of the fall, despite COVID-19. Women’s Philanthropy continues to bring people together and it is all possible when individuals say hineni, I am here, and show up for fun and giving. 

When registering, registrants are asked to submit a photograph of themselves with strong women who have been influential on their lives, such as mothers, grandmothers or daughters. These photos will be featured in the slideshow at the beginning of the program. 

Get a ticket today by visiting shalomaustin.org/booklovers.

Don’t miss out on the Women’s Philanthropy speaker series, Coffee and Conversation, highlighting impressive women in the community. Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 9-9:30 a.m., learn more about Women Inspiring Philanthropy, featuring Courtney Manuel, Shalom Austin Campaign chair and I Live Here I Give Here CEO, and Christina Gorczynski, Impact Austin executive director. Both women are incredible leaders in the Austin philanthropic world and they have great anecdotes and stories to share. In 2020, women lead household giving; this conversation will dive into the power of women and philanthropy. To register, visit shalomaustin.org/wprsvp.

For more information on opportunities to give back to the community this Hanukkah season, please visit shalomaustin.org/wpjfswrap or shalomaustin.org/wpvolunteer.