This year's Appeal goal set at $650,000

Beth Tzedec is on the verge of something extraordinary. Our Annual High Holy Day Appeal has already seen remarkable generosity from our community, pushing results beyond the $400,00 mark. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Larry and Judy Tanenbaum Family Foundation, our lead donors who are matching contributions up to $150,000, we are well on our way to reaching this year’s ambitious goal of $650,000.

This year’s campaign, led by Co-Chairs Allan Kanee and Debbie Rothstein, is more crucial than ever as we focus on three central themes in the wake of the attacks of October 7th:

• Beth Tzedec as a caring community: Guided by our six core values—Care, Connect, Pray, Learn, Celebrate, and Tzedakah—Beth Tzedec remains a sanctuary of support, compassion, and spiritual growth.
• Beth Tzedec as a major Jewish organization: Our synagogue has evolved into a central voice within the Jewish community, not just in Toronto but across the Jewish world. Our rabbis are among the most respected voices in the country, regularly sought after by organizations and media for their insights.
• Beth Tzedec as a safe and secure place: We are committed to ensuring that our community can gather, worship, and celebrate in a safe and secure environment, a commitment that has become even more paramount in recent times.

“This is not your grandmother’s synagogue,” says Rothstein. “Beth Tzedec is alive with energy, driven by young people who are infusing new life into every corner of our community. We’re growing stronger every day, and the possibilities for our future are endless.”

Kanee echoes this sentiment, adding, “What’s truly unique is our ability to serve over 5,000 people—each as individuals with their own needs—while also playing such a significant role in the wider Jewish community.”

But with our success comes a stark reality: regular membership contributions only cover 30% of our annual budget. The remainder depends on the philanthropy of our members, much of which comes through the Annual High Holy Day Appeal. Last year, we broke records, raising $550,000. This year, with your help, we aim to surpass that by raising $650,000.

“For an appeal like this, participation is everything,” says Rothstein. “Imagine if every one of our 2,500 families contributed just $100—that’s another $250,000 for Beth Tzedec. Think about the impact those funds could have.”

While every contribution counts, Rothstein and Kanee are urging those who can give more to step forward. “Beth Tzedec is home to many generous philanthropists,” says Kanee. “If you have the ability to give $1,800 or more, I encourage you to do so. Your support is crucial to our continued growth and success.”

The Tzedec Circle, established last year, honors those who give $1,800 or more to the Annual Appeal. “Our members not only appreciate the recognition and special benefits but also take immense pride in knowing their generosity is helping to strengthen Beth Tzedec. They’re not just supporting a synagogue—they’re securing the future of a vital community.”

As we close in on our goal, now is the time to make your gift to the 2024 Annual High Holy Day Appeal. Visit bt.crowdchange.ca/beth-tzedec or contact Jonny Ain, Director of Development, at jain@beth-tzedec.org or (416) 781-3514 (Ext. 229) to contribute today. Your generosity will help ensure that Beth Tzedec remains a beacon of Jewish life for generations to come.