More than a beautiful piece of jewelry, the Pomegranate pin is a symbol of a woman’s commitment to and compassion for the Jewish people.
 

Pomegranates are: 

  • Leading by example

  • Powerful together

  • Philanthropic and care about making the world a better place
     

Pomegranates enjoy:

  • Exclusive programs and events

  • Unique mitzvah opportunities

  • A bond like no other
     

Pomegranate women donate between $1,800 and $4,999 to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s Annual Campaign.

  • Becoming a Lehigh Valley Pomegranate

    To qualify for the Pomegranate Pin, women must donate $1,800 or more to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. The pin is designed to be used for 10 years. Recipients qualify for an additional "seed" or ruby each year by adding to their pledge.

  • Endowing Your Lehigh Valley Pomegranate

    Women who give at Pomegranate level are encouraged to endow their gift in perpetuity. An endowed Pomegranate will be draped with gold-toned leaves, signifying a woman’s commitment to the continuation of Jewish life.

  • Bringing the Pomegranate to Your Community

    More than 125 Federations participate in the Pomegranate Pin Program through the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. We offer a full range of services to implement this program in your community including customizable marketing materials.

The Origin of the Pomegranate

 

An ancient symbol found carved into the lintels of the earliest synagogues, the pomegranate has carried with it the concepts of Judaism for generations. In the Torah, the pomegranate is one of the seven species that the spies saw in the land when they were sent forth by Moses. The Midrash tells us that the pomegranate has 613 seeds, which corresponds with the number of mitzvot or commandments found in the Torah. The pomegranate has been woven into ancient fabrics and hammered into ceremonial silver and gold objects. The intricate covers for the handles of the Torah scrolls are called "rimonim" or pomegranates. 

The Making of a Pin 

 

In 1981, the women of Allentown, Pennsylvania, introduced the Pomegranate Pin as a way to inspire giving from women of all stations. Modeled after the Lion of Judah program, then-President of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley Sybil Baiman and Campaign Chairperson Jeanette Eichenwald felt that a pin at the mid level would increase gifts in the upper levels. Almost four decades after its inception, more than 7,000 pins have been distributed across North America.

Laurie Wax
Women’s Philanthropy President
 

Carol Bub Fromer 
Lion & Pomegranate Chairs