December State of the Temple…and help?
Happy Hanukkah to all of the Temple Beth El family! I offer wishes of light and love to you all.
You are an integral part of this warm and welcoming congregation. Thank you for your continuing support of your Temple home; your generosity and commitment ensure our ability to serve the congregation with outstanding clergy, diverse programs and services, and so much more. As you review your year, we are doing the same.
With the halfway point of our fiscal year fast approaching, we are writing with an update on the state of Temple’s financial affairs, and to ask for your help.
Income to date from annual membership pledges is $1.34 million or 92% of the budgeted goal. Although not unusual to have uncollected pledges going into the end of the calendar year, a deficit of 8%, representing $122,000, is troubling. The shortfall also reflects some congregants making smaller commitments than in previous years, no doubt a reaction to their struggles with the ongoing troubled economy.
There has been incremental progress in addressing the challenge of those who make no membership commitment or pay below the expected amount, currently estimated at near half of the congregation. Now in its second year, Temple policy is for staff to screen each abatement request and refer congregants to Jewish Family Services for a confidential consultation where appropriate.
On the positive note, income from religious school tuition and High Holiday Days ticket sales have already met or exceeded budgeted amount, and facility rentals are on track to meet or exceed projections.
Temple is holding the line on expenses with two major exceptions. The first High Holy Days season in the new building was a tremendous success with virtually no logistical hitches and minimal complaints. However, there were unanticipated expenses such as extra security and transportation needs that, while well received and appreciated, put us $25,000 over budget. Most of that budgeting was not under our control. We also continue to wrestle with pegging precise utility and other costs to operate the new building. Estimates are good and experience will be our final guide.
In summary, Temple is in generally solid financial shape but faces a significant projected deficit if current revenue trends continue. The major fundraiser of the year, Casino Night which will take place in March 2012, will help, but by itself will not be enough. If you are able, please consider making an additional, tax-deductible contribution to Temple to help us bridge the gap before December 31 or after. We believe our High Holidays investments were the right answers. We also hope that pledge income will begin to right itself as the year continues. But we do not want to be caught short.
As Hanukkah and the secular New Year begin, we ask your help and your generosity. As always, we welcome your questions or comments. Thank you for your continued support.
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