Voluntary Dues
Sustaining Share Financial Commitment
Rather than a one-size-fits-all dues system with a fixed price per household, we ask each member household to decide their own annual financial commitment. In addition, we’ve done away with the Kol Nidre Appeal and the Building Fund. Our members sustain our community with an annual pledge that they themselves determine. In this way, no one is prevented from joining our community because they cannot afford it.
Voluntary level? Really?
Yes, really. You have to make a pledge, but the amount is solely up to you. Your pledge is confidential. We only ask you to consult your heart and take into account the importance and cost of maintaining our shared and sacred community. What is it worth to you to provide a synagogue that anyone can join, regardless of their financial wherewithal? What is it worth to cultivate the next generation of Jews? What is the value of a place where we can celebrate each other’s joyous moments and also support each other in grief and sadness? How do we preserve Jewish community and religious institutions for the next generation?
How does it work?
You make a pledge each year that covers your membership until June 30th (the end of our fiscal year). All members renew each year by making a new pledge during our annual spring pledge campaign.
How much should I pledge?
The amount is entirely up to you. It’s important to consider that it costs approximately $2,500 per person ($5,000 per couple) to fully fund the synagogue for a year. Some can give a lot and some cannot, but together we can sustain each other and our community. Our annual budget is based mostly on our projected sustaining share income.
Leave no one behind!
When you make a larger pledge, you are directly helping someone join a synagogue who otherwise would not be able to do so. Anyone can be part of our community at any level of income. All we ask is that you make a pledge of your own choosing. Together we can sustain each other and leave no one behind.
