This year’s Annual Campaign officially launched on Erev Yom Kippur. We hope that each member will do their part in helping us to reach the goal of raising $1,300,000 by Chanukah. These funds will be used to support the many services, programs and events held at our beloved Temple – and online – that enrich the lives of our members and the community.
Our gratitude goes out to each donor who already participated in this congregation-wide endeavour – thank you! For those of you who have not yet made your pledge, you can donate online now or connect with our Development Administrator, Mercy Afuye at [email protected] or by phone at 416-789-3291 ext. 261.
The 2023 Annual Campaign Committee
Marla Speigel, VP, Development
Ellen Cole
Joan Garson
Elana Paice Lidsky
Albert Oppenheimer
Sam Sapera
Shira Lester, Director of Development and Donor Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I contribute to the 2023 Annual Campaign?
This money is vital for funding the operations of the Temple.
Perhaps you read “Operations” and think, “that’s not exciting. I want to put my money towards something important.” Well, operations are very important – and we would feel the pinch if there wasn’t proper funding for the Temple’s operations. Things like lights, heating and air conditioning, security services, cleaning and upkeep of the grounds and our newly renewed building… these things all fall under operations. So does all the work which goes on behind the scenes to plan and execute the daily programming led by our clergy, professional educators and committed volunteers. Then there are the many public, community-wide programs, such as adult education or Israel dialogues, all of which cost to run.
What does it take to run a cemetery? A school? A nursery program? To host over a thousand people in a building? Holy Blossom is fortunate to have a talented team of people who can answer these questions so that the membership can learn, pray, and be present in the moment, assured that the details have been handled by a terrific group of professionals. Of course, the Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and direction – and is committed to supporting the Temple 100%.
I already pay a lot in membership fees. Why are you asking for more money for the Annual Campaign?
Membership contributions make up less than half of the revenue needed to enable all the amazing things that we do at HBT. We organize the Annual Campaign to bring in additional funding so that we can continue to keep offering our community the array of services and programs that make Holy Blossom Temple such a special sacred congregation.
I made a donation to celebrate Rabbi Splansky’s 25th Anniversary. Is this the same thing?
Thank you so much for your contribution in recognition of Rabbi Splansky’s 25th. She is overwhelmed by the outpouring of warmth and generosity from the membership and these gifts will be used specifically to support Excellence in Jewish education. The Annual Campaign is distinct – it collects unrestricted funds that are spent on operations of the Temple, which includes educational programming and many other activities that are foundational to Temple life.
How will my donation be recognized?
All Annual Campaign Gifts will be recognized online and in the Temple Bulletin.
The Annual Campaign Donor Wall will be updated in time for Chanukah celebrations and will list the donors who contributed $720 or more to the Annual Campaign.
