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.

FEATURED MEMBER

Karen Kogut

Interviewed by Val Newberg

Val Newberg: How and why did you get involved in Women’s Philanthropy?

Karen Kogut: I began supporting the Jewish Federation in my 30s, moving through eight different cities. It wasn’t until I settled in San Diego that I truly immersed myself in Women’s Philanthropy.

Upon arriving, I struggled to feel connected. Events felt impersonal, and there was no follow-up from the community. Reaching out to a dedicated member, I was challenged to address these issues head-on. Embracing her challenge, I stepped up.

I attended a Federation Women’s Philanthropy Board mixer and soon received an invitation to join the board. We launched Shalom San Diego, an outreach initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity and connection. I chaired this program and took on various leadership roles, eventually serving as the Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair. My involvement expanded to the Federation General Board, the Executive Committee, the Finance Committee, and the CEO Search Committee, among others.

Life took a turn when my mother passed away and my father needed care. My husband Stuart and I moved to Austin six years ago.

In Austin, it seemed my reputation had preceded me. More importantly, I felt a profound responsibility to follow in my parents’ footsteps and keep up with the Jewish community involvement of my nephews, Jerrod and Ben, and my niece, Sara. Known as “the aunt,” I am so proud of them.

While facing the challenge of being new to the community once again, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Honoring my family’s legacy and ensuring my parents’ names would continue to be remembered, I pushed through the discomfort of being new and set out to build new connections.

I discovered that the Federation in Austin is supported under the umbrella of Shalom Austin. I became involved with the Women’s Philanthropy Committee,

the Shalom Austin General Board, the Finance Committee, and served as a Lion steward. Through these roles, I also became a major donor.

Now, my life is enriched with Women’s Philanthropy activities and friendships within the Austin and San Diego Jewish communities. I am deeply grateful for the encouragement and support from lay and professional leaders in both cities.

VN: What led you to become a Lion of Judah and why is it important?

KK: Years ago, during a Federation Mission to Israel, I became a Lion of Judah. The trip profoundly inspired me by revealing firsthand where our contributions go, and the impact they have, not just in Austin.

We visited an absorption village for new Ethiopian immigrants who had fled oppression to find freedom and a better life in Israel. Seeing their resilience and hope was deeply moving. We also spent time singing and dancing with elderly residents in a retirement home, that is supported by our donations.

This trip highlighted the tangible difference our gifts make and reinforced my commitment to philanthropy. It was an overwhelming realization of how stretching my previous gifts could significantly impact someone’s life, and it solidified my dedication to making a meaningful difference.

VN: What is your favorite Jewish memory growing up?

KK: Passover in our house was a big production, filled with tradition and preparation. It meant moving furniture and cooking for days. Among the rituals, there was the search for chametz, the leavened bread that we remove from our homes before Passover begins.

An ancient Jewish custom involves searching for chametz by candlelight. Alongside the candle, we use a feather as a tiny broom and a wooden spoon as a miniature dustpan. After collecting the chametz, we burn it, and we ask G-d to remove the chametz from our lives just as we have removed it from our homes.

Passover also meant coming together for one final celebration. After benching, we would walk around the block and stop in front of our house to do Israeli dancing. Our neighbors thought we were crazy, but for us, it was a joyful way to conclude the holiday. I still have my father’s feather.

VN: What message would you like to share with other women in our community?

KK: We Jews are known for our strength and resilience. My own experiences have reinforced the importance of being strong, persistent, and engaged in building meaningful connections and making a difference. It’s truly inspiring to see how we can turn challenging situations into opportunities for growth and leadership, ultimately contributing to the betterment of our community.

Remember, don’t wait for the phone call—make the call yourself. Taking initiative is key to creating positive change.