From Pilates to Philanthropy:
Meet JWGF Member Bonnie Ziegelstein


Bonnie Ziegelstein

When Bonnie Ziegelstein moved from Massachusetts to Baltimore in the 1980s, it was on a whim. She had never been to Maryland before, but accepted a position in rehab medicine at Johns Hopkins and jumped right in. Decades later, Bonnie still calls Baltimore home — teaching Pilates part-time, soaking up pop culture from classic musicals to the latest streaming hits and cherishing time with her now-grown children on beach vacations filled with bike rides, great meals and connection.

A Life-Changing Trip to Israel

Bonnie’s worldview changed dramatically during her first trip to Israel with USY in 1979.

“It was a completely different experience,” she recalls. “I had never left New England — and suddenly, I realized there’s this big world out here.”

That early experience shaped her curiosity and openness to people and causes far beyond her immediate circle.

Finding Purpose with JWGF

Bonnie first heard about the Jewish Women’s Giving Foundation (JWGF) through her good friend Shelly Hendler, who described it as a meaningful, hands-on way to give back. Bonnie was especially intrigued by the site visits and the opportunity to engage directly with nonprofits who are making a difference.

As she read through Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) from various organizations, Bonnie found herself especially moved by those addressing trafficking, domestic violence and sexual abuse.

“You realize circumstances are so different for other people,” she says. “I’m not sheltered — I know this stuff is out there — but reading these LOIs, it hits you in the face more.”

A Life-Affirming Experience

Now nearing the end of her first year with JWGF, Bonnie says the experience has been nothing short of inspiring.

“Reading the LOIs is life-affirming — people in the nonprofit world are out there trying to do good things,” she says. “And the women of JWGF are all trying to assist, be committed and be positive.”


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