Annual Fund Appeal FAQs

What is the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is a once-a-year initiative encouraging all congregants to give generously to our synagogue community. Funds donated to the Temple Israel Annual Fund support special projects that we could not afford using our primary revenue sources: dues, fees, and rental income. The Annual Fund projects have been identified by the Board of Directors as high priority for keeping Temple Israel vibrant and strong.

How does the Annual Fund differ from the Endowment Funds?

Annual Fund

  • Immediate impact
  • Principal spent this year
  • Pays for high-priority projects

Endowment Funds

  • Invested for the long term
  • Only interest is spent
  • Pays for educational & cultural programs, operations

How will the Annual Fund help Temple Israel?
The 5784 / 2023 Annual Fund will be deposited directly into our operating account and used for more joyous holiday gatherings, a vibrant religious school, inspired adult education (featuring rabbinic intern Jacob Chatinover), and family programming for all ages. At the same time, we will invest in our historic building so it is here for generations to come.

We rely on operating funds to support our mission through key programs and retention of talented personnel, who make Temple Israel a Jewish center of learning, prayer, and community.

Why don’t we just raise dues to cover all temple costs?
Temple Israel is committed to keeping dues and fees affordable for the majority of our members. The Annual Fund will help us keep dues at or near their current affordable level while raising funds for high-priority projects. School and Membership fee information can be found here.

How do we recognize contributors to Temple Israel Annual Fund?
All gifts to the Annual Fund are greatly appreciated! All donors (regardless of level) will be recognized in the Doorpost and in the year-end Annual Report. We encourage donations in honor or in memory of loved ones. If you wish your gift to be anonymous, we will honor that request as well. Gifts of $180 or more (Friends and Rabbi’s Circle) will be recognized on an Annual Fund Donor Wall. Donors at the Rabbi’s Circle level ($1,000 and above) will also be invited to a special reception in the spring. Gifts of $10,000 or above may be recognized with a permanent plaque.

What kind of financial commitment are you expecting?
We hope that everyone in the congregation will participate at a level that is personally comfortable but meaningful. Participation in the Annual Fund is an expression of your commitment to Temple Israel. Donors who give $1,000 or more will be part of the “Rabbi’s Circle.”

Rabbi’s Circle gift levels

  • Platinum $10,000+
  • Gold $5,000-$9,999
  • Silver $2,500-$4,999
  • Bronze $1,000-$2,499

Friends of Temple Israel gift level

  • $180-$999

How can I make my donation?

Is this the only time that you will ask for my support this year?
The Annual Fund and Endowment Funds are our only major donation requests.

Is my donation tax deductible?
Temple Israel is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Further questions?
Contact the Development Committee at Development@templeisraelnh.org or our administrative director at templeoffice@templeisraelnh.org.

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