Give

Stephen Wise Free Synagogue encourages and enables our members and friends to participate in the mitzvah of giving.

In Torah we learn that a half shekel was collected from each Israelite to "enroll." And the Israelites were also asked to give as they were able, as their hearts moved them. It is written that they contributed so wholeheartedly that Moses had to stop them… they had given "more than enough."

The synagogue relies in large measure on such generosity of spirit, beyond membership dues. While each household contributes to membership, it is important for each of us to respond to the general needs of the congregation, to give when the calls goes out for a special project, to contribute time, expertise, and funds as we are able. And as a congregation, we urge participation in drives for goods, services, and dollars that will aid those in need in the broader community, in Israel, and around the world. "Justice, justice shall you pursue." The word "justice" is written twice, emphasizing its importance and giving us the clue that we must care for ourselves – our family and immediate community – as well as for others.

Contributions are acknowledged to the donor and, upon request, to the person honored or the family of the person remembered. As well the acknowledgement will appear in the monthly Bulletin.

Following is a list of giving opportunities. This is not a comprehensive list, but a starting point. We welcome your suggestions and support to enhance and strengthen the synagogue community and ability to address our mission as Jews… to serve as a light unto the nations. Feel free to call upon the president and professional staff with your ideas and to discuss naming opportunities.

GENERAL FUND enables unrestricted contributions to support the broad range of SWFS activities

YOM KIPPUR APPEAL is a customary gift of the High Holy Day Season, an expression of tzedakah that makes real the concept, “Repentance, Prayer and Charity temper judgment’s severe decree.” 

SPRING APPEAL expresses appreciation and support for SWFS

RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND and CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND contributions honor our clergy and enable them to provide assistance to those in need and to support those causes which reflect Jewish values. Such contributions are appropriately made on the occasion of life-cycle ceremonies.

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND, established in 2005, enables innovative educational programs and special projects for our next generation

SWFS BALFOUR BRICKNER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER gifts enhance the creative, growing program for pre-school children in our synagogue

RABBI EDWARD E. KLEIN MEMORIAL LIBRARY gifts sustain and enhance this remarkable resource with books, subscriptions and audio/video materials and programs for all generations

CENTER FOR COMMUNITY LEARNING is our adult education venue for an array of programs that bring the teachings of Judaism to life.

SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE pursues and advocates for social justice and welfare issues in accordance with the Judaism’s teachings and mandates

EMERGENCY FOOD PROGRAM provides meals for the hungry in our community every Saturday morning, year-round.

HOMELESS SHELTER, funded by the Partnership for the Homeless, is the first shelter in a NYC synagogue; providing sleeping quarters for 6-10 men, 4 nights per week Sept. thru June, SWFS seeks volunteers to help prepare dinner and stay overnight.   

WOMEN’S ORGANIZATION, an affiliate of Women of Reform Judaism, has been an important part of SWFS for nearly 100 years as a resource on women’s issues.

YOUTH GROUP, an affiliate of the National Federation of Temple Youth, SWFSTY enhances the lives of our high school student through social and social justice activities as they learn and live the principles of Judaism.

ONEG, KIDDUSH and BIMAH FLOWERS sponsorships, enhance our Shabbat and Holiday observances

MEMORIAL PLAQUE, in tribute to a loved one, a light next to this bronze plaque in our sanctuary denotes the week of  Yahrzeit and ensures that the name will be read before Kaddish. ($1500 minimum contribution)

YAHRZEITcontributions are part of the Jewish custom of memory, given on the anniversary of the death of a loved one.  Our Annual Yom Kippur Yizkor Service Memorial Book offers another special opportunity to enable tzedakah to appropriately memorialize a loved one.

PLANNED GIVING is a worthwhile exploration for many – designed to benefit the donor while providing support to the synagogue. Consult with your financial advisor regarding such arrangements as Bequests, Donations of Appreciated Assets such as Real Estate, Stock, etc., Life Insurance, and Charitable Remainder Trusts.