Over the past 2 months, TBA leadership has engaged you in conversation regarding replacing our current dues structure with a new membership model. Thank you for sharing your feedback in focus groups, surveys, and one-on-one conversation. Your deep love and care for TBA is evident by your innovative ideas, thoughtful questions and concerns, and genuine excitement for the model.
Based on your input, the leadership of TBA is formally proposing that we initiate this new model beginning on July 1, 2023.
Please read below for an overview of the model. In the coming weeks you'll receive more information specific to 2023-24. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
Rabbi Keith Stern
Carole Rodenstein, President
Becky Oliver, Executive Director
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A Message from Rabbi Stern |
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Based on changing demographics and shifts in TBA membership, the TBA Board of Directors determined that membership, specifically the dues model, was an important strategic priority to strengthen our congregation. Over 18 months ago, a task force was formed that has been reimagining our membership model to align with our vision and values and be fiscally responsible.
Why are we proposing a new model?
The Board and Task Force has concluded that TBA is now ready and well positioned to address the evolving needs and trends in our community with a change in our membership model. To learn more about why we came to this conclusion, click here. |
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What is the proposed membership model?
Our proposed new model, the Member Commitment, empowers members to make an informed choice about their contribution to TBA.
In contrast with our current model, the new model replaces and consolidates multiple requests into one contribution including:
- Membership Dues
- Annual Sustaining Campaign
- Security Fee
- Participation Fees for many programs and events
The fundamental premise of this model gives you, our members, the power to choose your contribution to align your Member Commitment with the value you experience as part of the TBA community.
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What are the benefits of the new model? |
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This new model requires a change in mindset. Over the past several years, we have been moving in this direction in the ways that members interact with TBA and contribute generously. Changing our model is a way to reflect these shifts and to support our shared vision. This new model provides the opportunity to better meet the needs of current members and to more effectively welcome new members. This is critical to the vibrant future of our strong and welcoming community.
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How will the Member Commitment work?
In the proposed model, you will be given the following to help aid in the decision around your Member Commitment:
- Financial information around TBA's expenditures and other sources of revenue
- An optimal average contribution per member family
- Suggested options for giving levels
- Guidance for you based on your past contribution amounts
This information, along with knowledge of your own personal situation and your relationship with TBA, will guide you in your decision making about a contribution amount.
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There are three key elements to our implementation plan (1) commitment of leadership, (2) emphasis on transparency and communication and (3) focus on inclusivity.
In order to effectively execute this model, we will form a Member Commitment Committee whose focus is on the implementation, maintenance, and evaluation of this model in consultation with the board. Click here to learn more about our implementation plan. |
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In the next few weeks, you will receive information specific to 2023-24 including the proposed budget, priorities, and structure. We encourage you to ask questions and share ideas with us. We are grateful for the leadership and hard work of our Member Commitment Task Force including David Cohen (chair), Bruce Blakely, Lisa Cohen, Michelle Copelotti, Sarah Dretchen, and Debra Poskanzer. Please join us on June 6 at the Annual Congregational Meeting where we will share more information about membership and other important aspects of TBA. More details to follow.
Changing a membership model will require patience, dedication, and flexibility as we learn what works best for our Temple. With strong lay and staff leadership, effective financial management practices, and a priority on member engagement, TBA is well positioned to undertake a change in our membership model.
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