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Thank goodness. If you think about it, I highly doubt they are going to turn someone down that wants to make monthly payments instead of a lump sum, but you never know. I was reading the requirements of another shul about 100 miles from here - you are expected to contribute far more than $1800 AND volunteer. While I like to volunteer, my time is limited if I'm off trying to make money to pay dues!
Thank goodness. If you think about it, I highly doubt they are going to turn someone down that wants to make monthly payments instead of a lump sum, but you never know. I was reading the requirements of another shul about 100 miles from here - you are expected to contribute far more than $1800 AND volunteer. While I like to volunteer, my time is limited if I'm off trying to make money to pay dues!
between the pragmatic acceptance that some dues is better than none at all, and the notion that a SHUL should not be turning away people who can't afford dues, my sense is that every shul I have at all been involved with is willing to negotiate both total dues and payment plans. I think SOME might ask for financial information to back up a request for a break, and some will consider discounted dues to be a loan and expect repayment eventually.
Requiring volunteering is kind of unusual, but isnt a bad idea - trying to get members to really be active, and not just think of it like a theater subscription. The extreme would be a havurah or indie minyan, with zero or very low dues, but heavy expectation of volunteering.
It depends on your synagogue's leadership. In some places, they knew I was in college and/or low-income. So they actually came out and told me I could get a reduced rate. In other instances, they don't volunteer that information so you have to ask. Now I'm at a point where if the dues are too high, I go elsewhere.
If you can't afford the dues, PLEASE ask for a payment plan or reduced dues. This is extremely common. Those who are more fortunate will donate to make up any shortfall and do so happily.
Update: I sent in my application, indicating I'd contact them to make a payment plan. Apparently, they trust me and aren't too concerned with it, because I'm getting New Member paperwork and an invitation to make aliyah on Rosh Hashanah. Horray!
There was no mention in the letters of trying to track me down for payment. They must trust me that I'm good for it. It's a nice feeling.
There was no mention in the letters of trying to track me down for payment.
Old joke ...
Neither were sure why, but suddenly the plane's engine died and the Max and Sarah had no option but to effect an emergency landing. The island was small and rugged. Still, a reasonably straight stretch of beach lay ahead of them, and they skillfully brought their small craft down.
But there was no chance of taking off again, and no one seemed to hear their radio broadcasts.
"We're lost ...REALLY lost!" cried Max.
"Perhaps not," replied Sarah. "Have you sent in our JUF pledge?"
"No. I was planning to do it when we got home. Why?" murmured Max, still feeling pretty forlorn.
"Then don't worry," said Sarah happily, "the JUF will find us!"
Neither were sure why, but suddenly the plane's engine died and the Max and Sarah had no option but to effect an emergency landing. The island was small and rugged. Still, a reasonably straight stretch of beach lay ahead of them, and they skillfully brought their small craft down.
But there was no chance of taking off again, and no one seemed to hear their radio broadcasts.
"We're lost ...REALLY lost!" cried Max.
"Perhaps not," replied Sarah. "Have you sent in our JUF pledge?"
"No. I was planning to do it when we got home. Why?" murmured Max, still feeling pretty forlorn.
"Then don't worry," said Sarah happily, "the JUF will find us!"
They may want to see your income or tax papers if your requesting to pay a lesser amount.
I'm not in a situation where I would request to pay a lesser amount. Sometimes it's difficult to come up with the money all up front, and they do take payment plans, thankfully.
It's been a relief financially to not pay dues for 2 years now.
Our rabbi left the conservative Schul we had belonged to for 6 years.
We weren't happy with the direction the board wanted to go.
We pay for Sunday school, sponsor a few events, volunteer every chance we get, help the Rabbi paint the Schul, help the rabbis and their families with with huge Sukkah, and just basically help whenever asked, or step up to the plate several times a month.
We were asked once to become members at our local Chabad.
When we explained we could not afford school and dues, they were more than understanding.
We have been so much happier with the Chabad community.
To us, it boiled down to being stagnant and not motivated to learn. We felt we were not spiritually growing and being challenged. We felt like unless we came up with$$$$$
We didn't feel part of the congregation.
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