The Institute for Jewish Spirituality

Donor Covenant

“My God, help me to become a “giver.”  Help me give… and go on giving.  You’ve called on us to be charitable; show me how.  Show me how to give with a pure heart, with an open heart, with a heart filled with joy.”  Rebbe Nachman of Breslov

In Jewish tradition, charitable giving (tzedakah) is both a responsibility, a privilege and a mitzvah–an offering that connects us more deeply with the Source of Holiness in our lives.  At IJS, we view tzedakah as a spiritual practice and as a sacred partnership.  We are committed to honoring the trust our donors place in us.  We seek to build a supportive culture for and with our donors as part of our IJS community. 

What You Can Expect from Us

  1. Respect & Human Dignity
    • We value every donor equally, regardless of the size of the gift.
    • You will never be pressured, shamed, or coerced into giving.
    • Your relationship with our community matters more than any donation.
  1. Faithful Stewardship
    • We use contributions responsibly and in alignment with our mission and values.
    • We apply gifts to the purpose for which they are given.
    • We are committed to prudent and mindful stewardship of financial resources.
  1. Transparency & Accountability 
    • We clearly communicate our mission, leadership, and programs.
    • We make our financial information publicly available on our website.
    • Our fundraising practices align with our spiritual practices of honesty, integrity, and accountability.
    1. Privacy & Confidentiality 
      • We keep personal and financial information confidential at all times.
      • We never sell, rent, or trade donor information.
    1. Gratitude & Communication
      • You will receive timely acknowledgment and appropriate tax documentation.
      • We will share the impact your generosity has on our community.
      • You may opt out of communications at any time.
    1. Access & Responsiveness
      • You may ask questions about our work or your gift and expect a prompt, respectful response.
      • You have the right to speak with staff or leadership.
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    What We Ask of Our Donors

    1. Partnership in Sacred Work
      • We invite donors to engage as partners in sustaining and strengthening IJS.
      • We ask that you consider sharing your IJS experiences with others to expand our network and help us grow.
    1. Clear Intentions 
      • We ask you to communicate wishes related to your gift, which allows us to honor them faithfully.
    1. Trust in Communal Leadership
      • We depend on your trust in our lay and professional leadership to steward resources wisely for the benefit of our community as a whole.
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