The Temple’s membership dues are our primary source of income, however our budget also depends upon the generous giving of donations. Donations are encouraged and donating opportunities are available in many ways.
Donations may be made directly to the General Fund, to the Endowment Fund, and to the Building Fund. You may also make a contribution to the Cantor’s Discretionary Fund. A permanent record of your donation may be obtained by purchasing a leaf on the Tree of Life or Tree of Memory, or by purchasing a bronze nameplate for the Yahrzeit tablets. It is appropriate to make donations for any reason, some of which are in honor of family achievements, life cycle events, simchas and in memory of loved ones.
High Holiday Appeal
Each year before the High Holidays arrive, a High Holiday Appeal Drive is prepared. This appeal reaches out to our congregational family and to those friends of B’er Chayim who contribute yearly to maintain this Jewish presence in Western Maryland.
Yahrzeit Plaques
Cost of plaque – $250.00
Preparation of plaque – about 1 month
Contact Gayle Griffith for more information
Tree of Life/Tree of Memory Leaves
Cost of leaf – $40, which includes engraving
Preparation of leaf – about 2 weeks
Contact Gayle Griffith for more information
Jane and Leonard Schwab Jewish Life Fund
This fund will be used to enhance Jewish life in the B’er Chayim community. Please make checks payable to the “Jane and Leonard Schwab Jewish Life Fund.” Contributions may be sent directly to B’er Chayim Temple.
Building Fund
Contributions of any amount may be made and may be given for general building use, or for a specific building project (subject to approval by the Board). Contact Debbie Lang for more information.
Yahrzeit Reminders
Approximately three weeks before the date of a specific yahrzeit, a notification of the upcoming date is mailed to the family as a reminder. A contribution form is included with this reminder, and acknowledgment of this contribution is made in the following bulletin.
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund
The Cantor’s Discretionary Fund is a fund under the discretion of the Cantor. Contributions can be made to this fund by making arrangements directly with the Cantor.
Endowment Opportunities
Western Wall Memorial located outside of Sanctuary:
Small stone $1000 – $4999 Patron
Middle stone $5000 – $9999 Sponsor
Large Stone $10,000 – $19,000 Benefactor
Largest stones over $20,000 Foundation Contributors
Contact Treasurer Gayle Griffith for more information on any of these options.
Wills, Trusts and other Financial Planning Vehicles
Your inclusion of B’er Chayim Congregation in your financial planning is encouraged. Please contact Gayle Griffith or Debbie Lang if you would like to begin this process.
Martin’s Grocery Scrip (Cash for Causes)
Members and non-members may purchase Martin’s grocery cards with face values of $25, $50 and $100, or a custom value up to $300. B’er Chayim Congregation receives five percent (5%) from each card purchase. Please contact the Temple office if you would like to participate: admin@berchayim.org or call 301-722-5688.
