Beth Kaplan Liss

Kansas City

I am proud to be a Lion of Judah, a status I embraced when I joined the National Young Leadership Cabinet in 2010. My mother was already a Lion, and her philanthropic example shaped my commitment to give at the Lion level. The true meaning of my pin revealed itself at a NYL Cabinet Retreat, when a brave woman shared how Jewish Family Services helped her and her children regain stability after divorce. Later, as I passed her in the hall, her daughter asked what the pin meant. “Look, she’s a Lion,” the mom replied. “It means she helps people.” Tears filled my eyes as I touched the pin, now a potent symbol of my commitment to Tikkun Olam. My youngest once said, “my mommy saves the Jewish people.” From NYL to local leadership roles and now on JFNA’s Israel & Overseas and National Women’s Philanthropy committees, I’m inspired by our collective power. The Federation sustains Jewish life and dignity worldwide.