Generations Member “pays it forward” to Beth Tzedec
For Mitchell Rattner, a lawyer, husband, and father of two young daughters, donating to Beth Tzedec is more than just a way to give back—it’s an investment in the future of a community that has become an important part of his family’s life.
“The Generations Membership Program has opened the doors to so many young families,” Mitchell reflects, “allowing them to be part of this community without the financial barriers that often come with shul membership. We were already committed members, but this initiative alleviated the financial burden of membership and made us feel valued.”
The Generations Membership Program has been a remarkable success, drawing in over 650 new families and creating a community of more than 1,000 households under 40—the largest such cohort of any congregation worldwide. For Mitchell, this program is about more than just free membership; it’s about ensuring that Beth Tzedec remains a vibrant and inclusive community for everyone, regardless of financial means.
Understanding the substantial financial resources needed to maintain the Generations Membership initiative, Mitchell and his wife, Samantha, actively chose to contribute $180 annually—just $15 a month—as a meaningful way to give back to Beth Tzedec, a community that has profoundly enriched their lives.
“Beth Tzedec has been there for us, and supported us in meaningful ways at major milestones in our lives. Beth Tzedec is a religious, educational, and social hub for its many thousands of members, who come from various and diverse backgrounds, but all of whom find in Beth Tzedec – I imagine – some sense of community, connection, and belonging. We want to do our small part to help ensure that Beth Tzedec can continue serving this community effectively and meaningfully.”
Mitchell’s family has enjoyed participating in various Beth Tzedec programs, including the family Shabbat dinners. “The Shabbat dinner program is very well-crafted,” Mitchell notes, “from the engaging family service to the dinner itself, and the after-dinner activities. It’s a multigenerational event that brings people together, creating a sense of community. We tried it out based on positive feedback, and it exceeded our expectations.”
Mitchell is not alone in his enthusiasm. “I know many people who have joined Beth Tzedec because of the Generations program,” he shares. “People who may never have considered joining Beth Tzedec, or paying for membership at any synagogue, for that matter, now have a foot in the door, and will hopefully develop a further connection and sense of belonging to this congregation.”
The Rattners’ decision to donate reflects their appreciation for Beth Tzedec’s foresight in offering such an innovative program.
“I recognize that Beth Tzedec’s ability to offer Generations Membership requires ongoing financial support,” he explains. “It’s important for those with the ability to contribute to do so, to help ensure that the program can continue for future generations.”
Mitchell’s commitment is also a strategic one. He points out, “With just over 1000 Generations Members families, if every such family contributed just $15 a month – hopefully a manageable amount for many - it would generate nearly $200,000 annually. That’s a significant amount that can help sustain Beth Tzedec and ensure that future generations have access to the same opportunities we do.”
To make your gift to the 2024 Annual High Holy Day Appeal, visit https://bt.crowdchange.ca/beth-tzedec or contact Jonathan Ain, Director of Development, at jain@beth-tzedec.org or 416-781-3514 ext. 229.
