Every Jewish community has them.

The women organizing meal trains after funerals. The volunteers who somehow know every new family’s name. The people quietly stocking food pantries before anyone notices the shelves are getting empty. The board members, mentors and behind-the-scenes fixers keeping Jewish life moving without asking for much credit.

Most never expect public recognition.

Now, Jewish Federation of St. Louis is asking the community to help change that.

As part of Federation’s 125th anniversary celebration, Women’s Philanthropy has launched “It’s Our Time to Honor,” a new initiative inviting people to nominate women whose leadership, service and philanthropy have helped shape Jewish life across St. Louis.

The women selected will be honored during the annual L’Chaim! event on Aug. 27.

“We are hoping that women from all walks of Jewish life will be nominated, including women of blessed memory as well as our future leaders,” said Amy Lampert, chair of the Women’s Philanthropy Board.

More than major donors

And Federation isn’t just looking for headline-makers or major donors.

“Does a woman in your life volunteer at the food pantry? Does she serve on a board of a partner agency? Does she volunteer at your synagogue?” Lampert said. “Because there are so many ways to make an impact on the Jewish community in St. Louis, the ideas of what a woman can do to be nominated are endless.”

And there may be a reason so many women immediately come to mind.

“They always say if you want something done, ask a busy person to do it,” she said. “From what I can tell, there is no one busier than a Jewish woman!”

The people who make things happen

For former Women’s Philanthropy co-chair Vicki Singer, the initiative feels deeply personal.

“I have had the privilege to serve with many smart, caring and dedicated lay leaders and professionals in our Jewish community,” Singer said. “They have all inspired me to give as generously as possible with my time and resources.”

Singer said one woman who left a lasting impression on her was Julie Gibbs, who served as director of Women’s Philanthropy during Singer’s tenure as co-chair.

What stood out most, Singer said, was Gibbs’ ability to make people feel valued.

“Julie has a gift for making every person feel seen, heard and counted,” Singer said.

Looking toward the future

Lampert said she hopes the recognition effort inspires the next generation of Jewish women to continue stepping forward, leading and building community.

“These are the women that have and will continue to make things happen,” Lampert said.

Nominations are now open through the Federation website and may also honor women of blessed memory.