Cohn invests in future

By Polina Olsen

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Marge Cohn wanted to ensure continued support for the Jewish community that has meant so much to her. That’s why, when she learned about the Lion of Judah Endowment, she didn’t hesitate.

With an investment gift that generates at least $5,000 per year, Cohn now knows her legacy and love of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland will continue.
   
“The synagogue is the heart and soul of Jewish life, and federation is the umbrella,” says Marge. “The LOJE ensures my involvement. If others realize this is a way to ensure their involvement, I think they will consider it.”
   

Cohn’s long and varied involvement in the community has one common thread—helping others. Her interest in art translates to supporting local artists, and all the beautiful objects in her home are from the Northwest. Her community service has included the JFGP and Mittleman Jewish Community Center boards, but begins with a passionate love of Israel.
   
“Last summer my daughter and I went on the Israel seminar for Melton graduates,” Cohn says. “Being in Israel is a moving experience anyway, but being there with Melton was incredible. You visit places as you study them. It is life changing.”
   
After Cohn’s husband died in 2002, she wanted to “work closer to people.” Today, she facilitates a support group for families stricken with suicide and is a Court Appointed Special Advocate for abused and neglected children.
   
“I’ve gotten more from it than they have from me,” Cohn reflects. “I realized the terrible things that can happen to people.”
   
“Lions of Judah are not only philanthropic with their dollars, but are voices within their communities,” said Laurie Rogoway, JFGP Associate Executive VP and Campaign Director.
   
The ‘Lions’ are women who contribute at least $5,000 in their own name to the annual federation campaign. A LOJE is a minimum $100,000 commitment that can be funded through a will, insurance or transfer of other funds, generating a $5,000 or more unrestricted gift to each federation annual campaign.
   
The JFGP has many endowment options at many different levels.
   
“Our job is to help each interested person find the most appropriate way,” Rogoway said. “The Lions have taken the lead, the way they do with so many things.”
   
“There was a time I never dreamed I could do something like this,” said Cohn adding, “I want to do as much as I can. I taught my children to give as you live. It’s the concept of giving.”
   
For more information about a Lion of Judah Endowment, call Laurie Rogoway at 503-245-6473.