Episode 106: Heather Kline
Heather Kline and Noa Tishby at Women’s philanthropy VOICES event March 19, 2024 Ep. 106
Heather Kline, President of Jewish Federation Orange County
“Heather Kline, may be petite, but her impact is undeniably formidable making her a true force to be reckoned with in the realm of community leadership.”
Woman of the Year 2024
Heather Kline and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 106
On this week’s episode Heather Kline, an Orange County philanthropist and “Lion of Judah”, discusses her life and community service with Jewish Federation where she serves as board president. Jewish Federation of Orange County’s Women’s Philanthropy division honored Heather as 2024 “Woman of the Year” on March 19th 2024. Heather also shares with us about her spirituality, how she finds meaning in this world and about the tragic and impactful loss of her mother when she was in college.
Heather Kline is a highly respected communal leader, dedicated philanthropist, and the Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Directors for the Jewish Federation of Orange County (JFedOC). Her commitment to Jewish life spans decades, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a passion for ensuring a sustainable and vibrant Jewish future locally, in Israel, and globally. Through her influential leadership, she has helped JFedOC mobilize resources to enhance Jewish life, provide critical assistance to Jews in need, and lead the community in navigating complex issues of concern, particularly the recent alarming rise in antisemitism.
Her impact within the Federation movement is substantial and recognized nationally. She served for three years as the Board Chair of JFedOC and previously as the President of the Women's Philanthropy Council. Nationally, Heather has held key roles on the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) National Women's Philanthropy Board, including serving as the Vice Chair of Engagement and co-chairing the prestigious International Lion of Judah Conference. Her dedication to excellence in service was acknowledged in 2018 when she received the coveted Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award.
A hallmark of her philanthropy is her status as a Lion of Judah, recognizing her significant commitment to the annual campaign, and her recent distinction as JFedOC’s 2024 Woman of the Year. Heather's work has been instrumental in focusing on strategic priorities such as Jewish security, strengthening Jewish identity through programs like the Teen Engagement and Wellness Initiative, and fostering interfaith community relations. Her involvement has helped ensure that critical programs, from support for Holocaust survivors to social services for the most vulnerable, remain robust.
Heather Kline is a powerful example of Jewish expression in action, embodying the concept of hineini—"Here I am"—by stepping up in times of challenge for the Jewish people and Israel. She is a tireless advocate for community building and leadership development, especially for women and young adults (NextGen), continually inspiring others to transform their generosity into meaningful, lasting impact for the generations to come.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Monica Levy
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