As we enter the fourth year of our Member Commitment model, we’d like to share our success thus far. Our congregation has experienced renewed growth in membership. Our members have embraced our philanthropic model and overall Member Commitment contributions have increased every year to meet TBA's needs.



We are grateful for your continued partnership in creating a thriving and dynamic intergenerational community. As we prepare for the new fiscal year, we want to share where we are, the new needs we face, and why your support matters.

Our Community's Growth

Our Community's Needs

Sustaining our growing community requires more resources every year. By supporting opportunities for spiritual, cultural, educational, and social connection, together we create a space where everyone can participate in their own unique way and feel a part of the TBA family. Our staff and lay leadership place a premium on fiscal responsibility while providing a high quality experience for members. 

Personnel

Our staff and clergy are the critical ingredients to creating an inclusive and vibrant Jewish space. Attracting, training, and retaining talented people is worth investing in. One investment we are making is in a new position, Director of Operations. Our new team member, Rachel Zylberfink, will support Becky in managing TBA’s day-to-day operations to enable Becky to devote even more of her energy to longer term strategic needs. For clarity, the recent announcement about the Rabbi’s retirement does not impact next year’s budget.



Security

The need for security is an unfortunate reality as the world continues to face an increase in antisemitic incidents. We have been investing in security for several years and are planning to increase our spending in this area to maintain a safe and welcoming community. Security will represent over $200,000 of our operating expenses in 2026-27 with additional expenditures on capital projects. This is an increase from 5% to 7% of our expenses in the past 3 years.

Our Community's Support

Member Commitment is critical to meeting the above needs, making up 50% of the revenue that supports TBA. Member Commitment has continued to meet our needs in large part due to the increases in your giving every year. We are grateful for your support with 70% of our returning members giving more year over year. 

Our Goal: Support TBA by growing total Member Commitment

by 5% to $1,420,000 in 2026-27

Your gift makes an impact. No matter the size, increasing your gift in a way that is meaningful to you will help sustain and support TBA. The information below shows a general set of guidelines for giving. In the month of June, you’ll receive a personal email with a tailored recommendation for your Member Commitment for 2026-27.

Our proposed budget for 2026-27 will be reviewed and voted on at the Annual Congregational Meeting on June 3. In June, you will receive more information including how to make your pledge and set up a payment plan.

Thank you for your continued support. Please be in touch if you have any questions or concerns. We look forward to another wonderful year together. 

Rabbi Keith Stern

James Nahirny, President

Becky Oliver, Executive Director

Newton, MA | bethavodah.org