At the direction of CBJ’s Board of Directors, a comprehensive Reserve Study was completed in May 2022. That study revealed that our current reserves (approximately $200,000) fall far short of the projected $2.5 million needed to maintain and replace critical elements of our building.
The time for action is now. Our building, the physical expression of our tradition and the emotional anchor for our community, requires essential updates, renovations, and long-deferred maintenance. Like our homes, these needs grow with time and use.
Campaign Eit-Ratzon is a time-limited, community-wide effort to ensure that CBJ remains strong for generations. Funds raised will address urgent capital needs, pay off our mortgage, and add funds to our endowment.
Every dollar raised supports four key areas:
Unfortunately, no. Like many synagogues, CBJ’s annual dues and Building Fund (CAT) payments are not enough to cover the Reserve Study needs.
An endowment is like a savings account for the future: the principal is invested and preserved, and a portion of the interest helps cover ongoing costs — in this case, the upkeep of our facilities. CBJ’s endowments are overseen by our Investment and Finance Committees to balance growth, safety, and steady support for our mission.
A reserve study is a detailed planning tool that assesses the condition of major facility components and projects when repairs or replacements will be needed. This ensures we have a clear roadmap for maintaining CBJ’s building, both practically and financially, protecting our spiritual home for years to come.
Eit-Ratzon is a special, time-limited capital campaign focused on critical building needs and our endowment. It is separate from CBJ’s annual fundraising, which supports daily operations, worship, education, and programming. We hope every congregant will continue supporting our annual fundraising while contributing to Eit-Ratzon.
All campaign expenses are covered within the funds raised for Eit-Ratzon and will not impact CBJ’s operating budget.
When we say full community support, we mean that Eit-Ratzon is a shared effort that invites participation from every part of our synagogue community, not just a small group of donors or leaders. Ultimately, our goal is for 100% of our congregation to make a meaningful pledge to Eit-Ratzon, at a level that feels right for each household.
Your pledge is a personal decision. We hope each gift will be thoughtful, caring, and meaningful to you. Every contribution — no matter the size — brings us closer to our goal. Our strength comes from all of us participating together.
You may make a one-time gift or a multi-year commitment. Contributions can be fulfilled by:
In general, pledge payments made to Eit-Ratzon may be tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, as they are considered charitable contributions to our synagogue. Tax deductibility can vary based on individual circumstances, the structure of the gift, and applicable IRS regulations.
We encourage all donors to consult with their tax advisor to understand how a pledge to Eit-Ratzon may apply to their personal tax situation. As always, please consult your tax advisor.
Unless you request anonymity, your name will be acknowledged in CBJ publications, on our website, and in other ways. Naming opportunities are available for gifts starting at $36,000.
Me’ah Fund:
Capital Assets Trust Fund (CAT Fund):
Project 613 was launched to reduce Religious School tuition and strengthen engagement among CBJ’s young families — making Jewish education more accessible for all. While Project 613 has already increased religious school enrollment and youth participation, it does not address our building’s significant capital needs.
In addition to making your own pledge, you can be an ambassador for Eit-Ratzon: host a parlor meeting, spread the word to friends, or help us reach new supporters. Please let us know if you’d like to get involved!
For any questions or to discuss your pledge, please reach out to Lisa Neiman or one of our campaign chairs.