Donations - Guide to Giving to Tifereth Israel

Tifereth Israel Congregation runs on people power, an extraordinary volunteer effort from members who serve on the board, lead Shabbat morning services, and clean the attic. But it also takes money to run TI. About three fourths of the synagogue's general fund budget is from annual dues of members, school tuition, and fees. The other quarter comes from member generosity. In the course of a year and in the rhythm of the life cycle, there are many opportunities for the mitzvah of tzedakah.

For more information about any of these funds please contact the Executive Director or the Development Vice Presidents.

Our Funds

General Fund

Donations to the General Fund help TI meet its expenses for -

Operating expenses for staff, building and supplies
Programs, services, Shabbat interpreting and holiday activities
Adult education and the Himmelfarb School
Kiddushim: Special sponsorships are available

General Fund contributions can be earmarked to cover the expense of any item in our operating budget.

The annual High Holiday Appeal is just before Rosh Hashanah. Members are contacted individually and there also will be an appeal during Yom Kippur services.

Honoring and Remembering

Tree of Life sculpture: The leaves, rocks, and clouds can be dedicated to the honor or memory of a special person, as follows:

A leaf can be dedicated for $180
A rock can be dedicated for $360
A cloud can be dedicated for $540

A memorial plaque that will be lit annually on the Yahrtzeit (anniversary date) of the individual's death, and during Yizkor services on Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Pesach, and Shavuot may be purchased for $500.

Book of Remembrance: Over the summer you will receive a mailing about remembering your loved ones in the "Yizkor Book of Remembrance" used on Yom Kippur and other holidays.

Yahrtzeit donations may be made to commemorate the death of a loved one; Memorial donations may be made upon the death of a relative or friend.

A chumash to be used at services with a nameplate honoring a loved one is $75.

A Torah mantle can be dedicated for $5,000.

Other opportunities to dedicate ritual books and objects frequently arise. Please consult Rabbi Seidel.

Building Related Funds

Building Preservation Fund supports building system equipment replacement.

Kitchen Renovation Fund: the planned renovation & modernization of the kitchen will produce a number of naming opportunities. Please contact Laurie Berger, Kitchen Fund Chair.

Special Funds

Himmelfarb Fund supports educational program enrichment.
Cultural Arts Fund for special youth programs.
Funeral Practices Fund
Library Fund
Kol Nashim Fund buys bima flowers for High Holidays.
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund
Torah Repair Fund is used for ceremonial object repair.
Madeline Nesse Program and Scholarship Fund supports TI programs and provides scholarships so all children can participate in TI activities.
Marvin Caplan Social Action Fund supports social action activities.
ANA Funds provide grants to students to attend Jewish camp.

How to Donate

Donations may be made by check payable to "Tifereth Israel Congregation" or by credit card. TI accepts gifts of stock and other securities. The Executive Director can provide assistance in making wire transfers.

Note - Any donations not designating an intended fund will be allocated to the General Fund.

Donations are listed in the monthly Menorah Newsletter but TI will honor any requests to maintain the confidentiality of anonymous donors.

All donors receive a statement at the end of the calendar year showing the total of his or her tax-deductible contributions to Tifereth Israel for the year. Please consult your financial advisor regarding the tax implications of your charitable donations.