News from Kol Ami

RELAX, this article is not about membership dues. Well, to be honest, it is somewhat about membership dues, but not about Kol Ami membership dues. Or Costco membership dues. Or gym membership dues. But I do promise not to use the words “membership dues” again in this article.

Why not?

Because Kol Ami is not a major retailer or an athletic facility. It is a community, supporting its members and supported by its members. Kol Ami provides us with what we want and need (e.g. religious events, learning, social events, holiday observance, music) and we sustain Kol Ami.

How do we do that? Through our voluntary contributions, commonly referred to as VCS (Voluntary Community Support). It costs a lot of money to run a congregation (more about that in future correspondence) and most of that has to come from members.

Kol Ami switched from membership dues (oops, I said it) to VCS last year and I am pleased to announce that it was a good start (more about that next time). But it’s a long road to full financial sustainability and we’ll be counting on you to do your part in the months ahead. We’ll provide lots of information, both for those of you who went through it last year, and those learning about it for the first time. And we’ll provide plenty of opportunities for you to ask questions about VCS and how important it is for you and for Kol Ami.

Since you’ve read this far, and I still have room on my page, here are a few important and completely truthful notifications:

• In recognition of her many years of tireless work on important social action issues, the Board of Directors has elected to rename the Social Action Fund as the Marleine Kay-Levin Social Action Fund. Marleine, who passed away recently, was the long-time Chair of the Social Action Committee.
• Purim is coming! Our Purim spiel and carnival is scheduled for Wednesday March 20. This year’s play is called Shushan Rhapsody, based on the music of Queen. If you’re not afraid of acting like a fool, let Michael know at michaelberger98@gmail.com
• Talking about acting like a fool, we will soon be accepting nominations for the 2019-20 Board of Directors. Let me know if you are interested in running for a spot on the board.

L’shalom, Elliot