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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.

 

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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

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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.

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