
Frequently Asked Questions
The Need for a Torah
-
Why do we need a new Torah? Our existing 5 scrolls are aging quickly and becoming unreadable.
-
What are the goals of the Torah Project Campaign? To write a new Torah for our community. Additional funds raised will be used for capital improvements and to further fund our endowment for the future of our congregation.
-
How long will it take to write the Torah? It takes about 1 year from start to finish
-
What’s involved in creating a new Torah? A scribe in Israel is handwriting Adath’s Torah on parchment.
Your Gift
-
Is this fundraiser in addition to the High Holy Day Pledge Drive? Yes
-
How much has been raised so far? $160,000
-
Has the board backed the project? Yes, with 100% participation
-
What do we get for our donation? The satisfaction of knowing that you participated in this project and the opportunity to sit with a visiting scribe to write in the Torah.
-
Can I donate in memory of or in honor off one of my friends or relatives? Yes
-
Can I donate anonymously? Yes.
-
Will I be able to spread my donations over time? Yes, all pledges must be paid by December 31, 2024
-
What if I am on a tight budget? Every little bit helps. There are also sponsorship opportunities for every price point.
Capital Needs
-
Why is money being raised for capital improvements? We have been at our Elbo Lane location for over 20 years. There are a number of items that are aged and in need of repair or replacement.
-
What are some of the capital improvements that need to be done?
-
Roof - We were fortunate to be able to replace the entire flat roof. Our shingle roof now needs to be replaced.
-
Flooring - Carpeting and tile floors need to be replaced throughout the buidling.
-
HVAC - While the majority of our HVAC systems were replaced within the last 5 years, our largest unit is still original
-
Endowment
-
Does Adath Emanu-El have an endowment? An endowment fund was established at the Jewish Community Foundation of Southern New Jersey 2 years ago. It was initially funded from a bequest by a long time member.
-
Why is it important to have an endowment fund? Endowed funds help financially support an organization outside of their annual budget.
-
How much of the endowment fund may be used each year? 5% of the overall value may be used each year.