Guide to Fundraising for Reconstructionist Congregations
Thriving Communities is pleased to offer a new online Guide to Fundraising for Reconstructionist Congregations available as a benefit to affiliated Reconstructionist communities and designed to support congregational leaders as they build sustainable fundraising practices and plan for long-term financial health. This guide is also a valuable resource for Reconstructionist rabbis seeking to support their congregations’ fundraising efforts.
This resource brings together practical tools, templates and ideas in one centralized place, making it easier for congregations to access guidance that is both usable and aligned with Reconstructionist values.
Inside the hub, you will find resources including:
- Fundraising guides and frameworks
- Practical tools and templates for immediate use
- Ideas for donor engagement and campaign planning
- Resources for both short-term initiatives and long-term strategy
The hub is designed as an evergreen resource, intended to support congregations throughout the year as needs evolve.
Already have the password?
Need the password?
To receive the password, please email Maurice Harris, Associate Director of Thriving Communities.
Testimonials
David Gordon, Past Chair and Member of Board of Trustees, B’nai Havurah (Denver, CO)
Thank you to Reconstructing Judaism for providing such a thoughtful and comprehensive guide. Our community will benefit immensely from the valuable information provided.
Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein, Congregation Shir Shalom (Williamsville, NY)
“Fundraising is one of the hardest things we do in our synagogue communities. Generating new ideas and effective strategies to support the operating expenses is challenging to say the least. The website really holds your hand and offers concrete solutions to any of your fundraising challenges. I highly recommend checking it out.”
Merle Potchinsky, Temple Bnai Israel (Willimantic, CT)
“This website is a one-stop shop for ideas and explorations for [Reconstructionist] communities to use … as they make complicated decisions about fundraising, and how to effectively use (and determine) resources and assets. It provides Jewish values-based gleanings to support and encourage the often difficult work of fundraising. It is truly a valuable resource…”
Jane Ralph, Community Engagement Director, Congregation Sha’arei Shamayim (Madison, WI)
“The Guide to Fundraising for Reconstructionist Congregations takes the things our congregations are already good at — bringing people together, strengthening relationships, talking about things that matter — and shows how they are consistent with best practices in fundraising. It’s practical and easy to use as well as honest about the investment it takes to develop strong fundraising practices.”
Rabbi Shira Singelenberg, Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Community (St. Louis, MO)
“As I begin my own journey with fundraising at my congregation, I can already see how helpful this tool will be! It offers practical resources that can help rabbis feel more confident and excited about fundraising, while also grounding the work in sacred texts and Jewish values. I’m excited to use it myself and see how it supports this work in my own community.”
A Former President of a Reconstructionist congregation
Fundraising in a Reconstructionist congregation can be an overwhelming project — not only because most people find it difficult to discuss money publicly, but also because many Reconstructionist congregations are so egalitarian that recognizing donors can seem counter to Reconstructionist values. This guide provides a wonderful background to the concept of fundraising, builds on a backbone of Jewish values, and dispels the negative baggage associated with fundraising. It is easy to follow and allows the user to pick and choose the parts needed for any and all fundraising projects.
