Legacy of Light - Bequest and Estate Giving
נֵר לְאֶחָד, נֵר לְמֵאָה A candle for one is a candle for a hundred. - Talmud, Shabbat 23b
For generations, Beth Tzedec has been at the heart of our community—a spiritual home where members are inspired to live meaningful Jewish lives.
In honor of Beth Tzedec’s 70th anniversary, we introduced the Legacy of Light Program—a meaningful way for members to sustain the congregation through a bequest or estate gift. This initiative strengthens Beth Tzedec’s future by building a lasting endowment, ensuring vibrant Jewish life, meaningful worship, and a thriving community for generations to come.
Leaving a legacy is simple, impactful, and ensures that Beth Tzedec remains a beacon of Jewish life for generations to come.
No matter what form your legacy gift takes, your generosity will strengthen Jewish life, enhance our spiritual and educational programs, and help secure Beth Tzedec’s future as a vibrant center of Jewish learning, prayer, and community.
Ways of Giving
Simple and flexible; can be a specific amount, percentage, or residual gift. Provides a lasting impact while allowing full use of assets during your lifetime. Potential estate tax benefits.
Provides a guaranteed income stream for life while making a future gift to Beth Tzedec. May offer immediate tax benefits and fixed payments.
Allows you to make a significant gift at a relatively low cost. May provide tax benefits if ownership of the policy is transferred. No impact on estate liquidity.
Naming Beth Tzedec as a beneficiary can reduce estate taxes while ensuring your retirement assets support the Jewish community. Avoids probate fees.
Additional funding vehicles are also available, and Beth Tzedec or your financial estate planner can help you select the option that best suits your goals and needs. For more information, visit our Glossary of Terms.
Directing Your Legacy Gift
Your legacy gift can be directed to Beth Tzedec’s highest priority needs or to major synagogue programs such as:
- Generations Members Shabbat Dinners
- Worship and celebration
- The Building Fund
You may also choose to create a Legacy Membership Contribution—an endowed gift that ensures you continue supporting Beth Tzedec on an annual basis beyond your lifetime.
Legacy Giving is for Everyone
As stewards of our Jewish community, we have both the privilege and duty to ensure its continuity. Legacy giving is not limited by age or wealth—everyone has the ability to leave a meaningful impact.
Your legacy gift, no matter the size, can be tailored to fit your personal dreams, lifestyle, family, and financial situation. Leaving a legacy is simple, impactful, and ensures that Beth Tzedec remains a beacon of Jewish life for generations to come.
This information is not intended to constitute or replace specific professional advice. Donors considering a legacy gift should speak to an advisor with appropriate tax and other expertise to implement a strategy that achieves their objectives.