Dear Chabad Community Members,
We hope you are having a wonderful and enjoyable summer.
We are reaching out to you to share with you an exciting new development at Chabad for the 2023-2024 year. We are inviting you to become a member at Chabad; we are inviting YOUR family to join OUR family. In the past many years, we have relied on our annual fundraiser along with suggested donations to cover the operating costs of running a Synagogue, above and beyond tuition and event tickets. This spring our Board approved a membership model that will allow us to retain and continue to hire faculty, administration, and security, as well as to secure our financial
sustainability.
The increase in inflation coupled with the rising costs of our new beautiful Chabad building has had a significant impact on program costs. Starting in the fall of 2023, we will be moving to a membership-based model for our community. A base level family membership of $1,800 will include all High Holiday seats for your family, as well as membership discounts at all events and other membership benefits. Membership levels will rise from there.
Our annual budget in the coming year 5784 is $1.2 million with 25% allocated to faculty, staff, and administration. Approximately 30% of Chabad’s revenue comes from Hebrew School, Preschool & Bar/Bat Mitzvah tuition; 30% comes from annual charitable donations; and 15% comes from our yearly gala fundraiser.
We anticipate a growing number of families and community connections through all that we do in the coming year as well. From Sisterhood events, to expanded JLI courses and CTeen programming, to Holiday Services & Events, we will continue to ensure that each dollar is thoughtfully allocated.
Chabad of Bedford remains committed to keeping an open door for all those who seek a Jewish spiritual home in our area. Financial assistance remains available always and Sara and Rabbi Arik will continue to reach out to those who need it most. Of course, if you have specific needs that have not been addressed, please reach out to them directly.
If you are able, we ask that you please complete your membership contract online or by bringing a check to our offices at 220 South Bedford Road, Bedford Corners NY 10549 by September 1.
Our dear Chabad of Bedford is in the midst of its strongest period of growth yet, with thanks to G‑d and to our incredibly dedicated, generous community. And we are most grateful for your ongoing partnership. We wouldn’t be here without you and we look forward to a meaningful year ahead.
With gratitude and appreciation,
Chabad Executive Committee
Moran Forman, Bruce Jakubovitz, Brad Klein, Matt Ludmer, Lisa Lubart, Daphne Viders, Zachary Viders, Evan Wildstein
