Meet San Diego’s Lions Behind the Pin
Lions of Judah wear their pins proudly as an internationally recognized symbol of philanthropy, commitment, Jewish values, and sisterhood. But the pin, as valuable as it is, doesn't have the power on its own to share what being a Lion really means.
Jewish Federation of San Diego’s “Lion Behind the Pin” initiative includes capturing and sharing the stories of our local Lions to help inspire others to join their sacred mission of filling the world with loving kindness. Read their stories below.
If you are a Lion who would like to share her story, please click here.
Simone Abelsohn
“I'm a firm believer that the bond between women is a special, unique friendship that most men do not get to experience. And it is this connection that helps us move mountains, further than men can, with a love and kindness – and maybe a little sass.”
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My journey with Federation started as a young adult, inspired by the profound impact our local Federation had on me during child hood. While the exact timing of my first gift eludes me, the lasting impression it left prompted my commitment to giving back.
The reason for my continued support lies in the consistent awe I feel for Federation's crucial role locally, nationally, and abroad. Serving on the Irael & Overseas committee, I witnessed the monumental impact Federation has made in Israel, particularly in Shar Ha'Negev, forming meaningful relationships along the way. Board involvement provided firsthand insight into the multitude of lives our Federation touches. My experiences with Shabbat San Diego, the Kindness Initiative, and now the Lawrence Family JCC, revealed how Federation fosters unity, creating a community for all and facilitating our work seamlessly.
In 2018, I became a Lion of Judah, a decision fueled by my Federation journey and a pivotal moment of joining the National Young Leadership Cabinet. This step has proven to be one of the best decisions of my life. Cabinet has not only granted me lifelong friendships but also the opportunity to witness our Federation's work globally, developing my leadership skills and reinforcing my love for the organization.
One cherished Lion moment revolves around the Shabbat Dinner during my first Cabinet Retreat. The exclusive Lions Only event, celebrating Jewish identity, the culmination of a week of learning, and the development of leadership skills, stands out. Each of us was individually recognized, invited to the front, and adorned with a beaded necklace featuring a white pin with a gold lion—a keepsake that still holds a special place in my heart. It encapsulates the pride and sisterhood felt in that moment and echoes the incredible sisterhood moments since.
For future generations of Lions, I hope they always remember their "why" and continue inspiring and building community together. The unique bond between women, a special friendship with a depth men may not experience, propels us to move mountains with love, kindness, and perhaps a hint of sass. The legacy I envision for future Lions is one of enduring connection, shared purpose, and the empowerment that comes from moving forward together.
Around the year 2000, I made my inaugural contribution to Federation—a $180 minimum gift to attend a women's event at a paint-your-pottery studio in Minneapolis. Freshly arrived in town, I saw this as an opportunity to forge new friendships. Encouragement from my mother-in-law and some of my husband's cousins, who were involved in the Minneapolis Federation, added to my motivation.
One of my cherished Lion moments occurred at that first Cabinet Retreat, where a professional from Minneapolis presented me with a pin during the campaign totals announcement dinner. Wearing the pin alongside other young women who made that commitment felt profoundly meaningful.
In 2005, my husband and I made our initial contribution to Federation during a global year of emergencies. Amid natural disasters worldwide, we had young children, and while our day-to-day expenses were considerable, we believed in Federation's ability to direct our donation to those in dire need.
One memorable Lion moment was receiving my pin during a lunch with our Chief Development Officer and a respected friend. Learning the story behind it and realizing its significance in celebrating women leaders created a powerful connection. Travelling and meeting International Lions of Judah has strengthened this bond, and attending the 50th anniversary LOJ Conference in Arizona alongside 18 impactful San Diego women was uplifting.
Many, many years ago, around four decades to be precise, I made my first gift to Federation at the Pomegranate level. At that time, I had been in San Diego for 46 years, deeply involved in various Jewish organizations in town. However, Jewish Federation wasn't initially high on my list of priorities. I contributed what I deemed a minimum donation and found joy in wearing the Pomegranate pin.
Although I'm relatively new to the Lion community, a standout moment occurred during the CommUNITY Trip to Israel. In the penthouse of a long-time Lion, we gathered with Lions from around the world. That night, I received my Lion pin, and it filled me with immense pride to be part of such a formidable group of women.