Michelle Hirsch Receives Ruby Bass Challenge Award

Award recognizes lifelong commitment and passion for Women IN Philanthropy

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced that Michelle Hirsch of Chagrin Falls was awarded the 2022 Ruby Bass Challenge Award, the organization’s most prestigious award for women philanthropists. Wild was honored with the award at the Federation’s Women IN Philanthropy Signature Event on May 25.

“The Jewish community has always been part of my life,” Hirsch said. “From Jewish preschool, day school, camp, youth group to Hillel, and young professional engagement and now that we’re raising our kids it’s just hit the repeat button.”

Hirsch has taken an active role in serving the Cleveland Jewish community for many years. Her involvement at Federation began as a member of the Young Leadership Division (YLD) board, later becoming YLD board chair. She has also served as Women IN Philanthropy Campaign chair, Women IN Philanthropy chair, and vice chair of Federation’s annual Campaign for Jewish Needs. She also previously served as co-chair of the Jewish Federations of North America’s National Young Leadership Cabinet. Hirsch currently serves as chair of the Federation’s Allocations Committee.

“Michelle is a real role model for everyone,” said Jennifer Cohen, Women IN Philanthropy chair. “She’s an inspiration, a joy to work with, and someone who really embodies everything that the Ruby Bass Challenge Award means but also what great leadership means, both in a professional and communal way.”

Established in memory of Ruby Bass z”l, the award is given annually to a woman who honors Ruby’s lifelong passion for the Federation, her commitment to Women IN Philanthropy and fundraising for the Campaign for Jewish Needs, the Federation’s annual fundraising campaign which provides critical dollars needed to change and improve lives in Cleveland and around the world.

In Hirsch’s honor, the Ruby Bass Challenge Endowment Fund will make a donation to the Women IN Philanthropy Campaign for the 2023 Campaign for Jewish Needs. This award was established by Ruby Bass’ son Jonathan, his wife Stephany, and her mother Lenore Kessler z”l, who was also Ruby’s dear friend.