In 2013, Barb Kovacs’ involvement in the Jewish community was minimal. Then her love of travel drove her to participate in a Jewish Federation mission to Israel that would change her life. Now, just five short years later, Kovacs is being installed as Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s incoming Women’s Philanthropy board chair.

“It is a path and an honor I never would have expected,” she said, “and I’m very excited for the opportunity to help Women’s Philanthropy continue to thrive.”

Kovacs will share her vision for Women’s Philanthropy of Jewish Federation at the upcoming Women’s Philanthropy Annual Meeting. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, August 27 at the National WWI Museum and Memorial.

One of Kovacs’ primary goals is to build a community where Jewish woman can connect, learn from one another and grow as leaders. To accomplish this, Women’s Philanthropy is working to develop more programs that bring women together.

“These will be programs that benefit the women in our community, attract new women, and strengthen our community as a result,” Kovacs said.

Kovacs also wants to engage more women in volunteering. There is always a need for people – no matter their experience or knowledge – who are willing to give their time and talents to serving others.

“Volunteers in our community make so many incredible things happen,” she said. “I am grateful to the many wonderful volunteers who came before me, including outgoing Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair, Lisa Bernard. I am also grateful to have an amazing board to support, guide and grow. I look forward to meeting and engaging new women who have so much to offer our community.”

Laurie Goldstein, Director of Women’s Philanthropy for Jewish Federation, said Kovacs is an inspiration to others looking to get involved within the Jewish community.

“Barb is a great example of how every woman can become more engaged and make a difference with Women’s Philanthropy,” Goldstein said. “She has already made such a positive impact on our organization and our board. I’m excited about the energy and genuine passion that Barb brings to the table as board chair.”

The Women’s Philanthropy Annual Meeting, co-chaired by Rosanne Rosen and Alissa Yamnitz, is open to the community. It begins with an hors d’oeuvres reception and concludes with a self-guided tour of the exhibit, “For Liberty: American Jewish Women in the War.”

Tickets are $18 per person. For more information, visit jewishkansascity.org/women18 or contact Marsha Cott, MarshaC@jewishkc.org, 913.327.8100.