Membership dues are essential, but they only cover a portion of our operating costs. The remainder ($300,000) must come from generous donations, fundraising campaigns, and legacy gifts.
This isn’t unique to us. Across North America, most synagogues rely on fundraising to sustain their communities. According to the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ), dues typically cover only 45% to 85% of a synagogue’s budget. That means fundraising isn’t a bonus—it’s a necessity. It supports everything from staff and programming to building upkeep, Kiddush and extra security costs. Like most synagogues, we rely on fundraising to sustain the full breadth of our programming, spiritual life, and community services. Dues are a baseline. Donations are what make our community thrive.
Fundraising helps us:
- Plan openly and thoughtfully for the future
- Welcome members regardless of financial ability
- Sustain cherished traditions like kiddush lunch
- Invest in outreach, education, and multigenerational engagement, including Shabbat School
- Keep our building safe and welcoming
Our budget is shared annually and voted on by members. If this comes as a surprise, you’re not alone. Many people don’t realize that dues only cover part of our operating costs. The rest must be raised through donations.
We encourage you to review the materials sent before our Special and Annual General Meetings and to attend, either virtually or in person. Transparency is a core value, and your engagement helps us plan responsibly and inclusively.
Yes. Like many growing communities, we took on a mortgage to build and expand our space and at one point refinanced our mortgage. At the time of writing the mortgage is approximately $900,000 which is, roughly 10% of the property value of our home.
Our tradition of a full kiddush lunch is one of the most cherished parts of Shabbat. Attendance is rising, and we are thrilled. At the same time, food costs have increased dramatically. We remain committed to keeping this tradition alive. It is a hallmark of our community and helps build intergenerational bonds. The current reality is that we may need to reduce the variety of food provided each week in order to manage this expense. The cost per person for our Kiddush lunch is between $10 and $14 per week.
This is an entirely personal choice. All gifts are valued.
If you are looking for guidance, Torah says 10% of net earnings should be donated to charitable purposes. Some suggest that 1.5% to 2% of gross earnings as your minimum contribution to the synagogue is a way to think about it.
Don’t forget that our governments want us to be generous and provide tax credits for all donations to registered charities.
It is, but even a 15-year-old building needs care. HVAC systems, roof repairs, accessibility upgrades, sound systems, and energy efficiency improvements all come with price tags. We want our space to be safe, welcoming, and functional for everyone, from toddlers to elders.
We have received security grants and are grateful for them. However, they do not cover everything. Ongoing staffing, training, and infrastructure are not fully funded. In today’s climate, ensuring safety is essential. Your donations help us protect what matters most.
We are building for the future. Our senior rabbi will retire in June 2026, and we are preparing thoughtfully for that transition. These hires reflect a strategic investment in programming, outreach, and pastoral care.
Over the past year, Darchei Noam has made thoughtful staffing decisions that reflect both fiscal responsibility and a commitment to excellence. When Reb Aaron joined our team, he brought a depth of skill and consistency that allowed us to consolidate several contract roles into one cohesive position. This shift enhanced the quality of service we provide to our members and it also reduced overall costs, allowing us to do more with less.
No. When our President spoke about antisemitism during Kol Nidre, he did not mean to suggest that this is the focus of our fundraising. He was speaking to a broader reality, encouraging awareness and engagement. The campaign itself is focused on strengthening our own community.
From this Moment is the name of our fundraising campaign. It signifies that every service, every class, every prayer, every Shabbat meal, every interaction with one of our Rabbis, every blessing under the tallit of our neighbour in shul is precious and must be sustained. Darchei Noam is built on shared generosity. As Toronto’s only Reconstructionist synagogue, we believe Judaism is an evolving civilization. Darchei Noam must evolve to meet the present and future moments.
From this moment, we commit to:
• Welcoming all with dignity and warmth
• Sustaining our traditions, including Shabbat hospitality
• Protecting our community with increased security
• Investing in our building
• Expanding our reach to younger, unaffiliated Jews
• Honouring our experienced members, whose generosity makes it all possible
We are a Reconstructionist congregation, guided by the conviction that shared responsibility is central to Jewish life. Judaism flourishes when everyone is engaged. Whether you lead a service, join a committee, or lend support in your own way, each person contributes as they are able. Together, we create a vibrant and welcoming congregation.
Whether it is a modest gift or a major one, your support affirms our shared future. Please give what you can.
For members who choose to take advantage of a newer tax benefit, you can donate Canadian securities directly to Darchei Noam. Please speak with your financial advisor to see if this option is right for you, and contact David Friendly at treasurer@darcheinoam.ca for details on how to make your donation.