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 introduce 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:

GIVING VEHICLE	ADVANTAGE
Bequests	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.
Annuities	Provides a guaranteed income stream for life while making a future gift to Beth Tzedec. May offer immediate tax benefits and fixed payments.
Gifts of Life Insurance	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.
RRSPs, RRIFs, and TFSAs	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	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.

Learn More: How to begin my Legacy Gift journey

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.