The Next 75 Years -

Highlights of the Project
Renderings are courtesy of William Rawn Associates and subject to minor changes.

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Renewed Sanctuary

We envision a renewed sanctuary that retains the intimacy and light we value while evolving into a modern, awe-inspiring worship space. It will feature expanded seating, additional windows, and improved access for all.

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New Secure Entry

We envision creating a beautiful and inviting entrance that elevates the experience of coming into our building, provides direct access to the sanctuary, and implements state-of-the-art security infrastructure.

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New Gathering Space

We envision enjoying a brand-new gathering space for our congregation that is full of light, joy, friendship, and connection, befitting the spirit of the vibrant community we have built together over the past 75 years.

Untitled - August 04, 2026 at 14.41.05-7 (2) Expanded Campus

We envision an expanded, accessible, sustainable campus featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure, expanded parking and improved lighting that will be able to support our thriving congregation for decades to come.

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Renovated Offices

We envision renovated and modernized offices for our clergy and staff so that you’ll always know where to find them and so that they can most effectively collaborate in serving our congregation.

TI Renders_16 New Community Space

We envision contemporary social spaces with flexibility, technology, and natural light – all which will support our educational programs, elevate joyful celebrations, and enhance our sense of community.

You are invited to attend one of four congregational events to learn more about this campaign and our vision for the future of TI.
Registration is required.

Wed Oct 14 | 7:00p

Fri Oct 16 | 10:00a

Wed Oct 21 | 7:00p

Sun Oct 25 | 9:00a

Click here to register for one of these meetings

FAQs

Why now?

Temple Israel is experiencing tremendous growth and momentum. As we look to the future, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create spaces that better serve our expanding community while preserving the warmth and spirit that make Temple Israel so special. By investing now, we are ensuring that our congregation remains vibrant, welcoming, and prepared to meet the needs of future generations.
How will donations be recognized?

Every gift to the campaign is meaningful and appreciated. Donors who make qualifying gifts will have opportunities for recognition through naming opportunities within the renovated campus. In addition, all campaign donors will be recognized in ways that honor their generosity while respecting the wishes of those who prefer to remain anonymous.
Can I fulfill my pledge over multiple years?

Absolutely. Most campaign commitments are fulfilled over a period of three years, making it easier for families to make a meaningful gift. We are happy to work with each donor to develop a payment schedule that is comfortable and works best for their financial situation.
Will annual dues increase because of this campaign?

No. Membership dues and the capital campaign are separate. Campaign gifts are voluntary and are designated specifically for capital improvements—they cannot be used for the Temple’s day-to-day operating expenses. Annual dues continue to support the programs, staff, worship, education, and services that make Temple Israel such a vibrant community.
Why should I give if I'm already paying membership dues and contributing to the Annual Fund?

Membership dues and gifts to our Annual Fund sustain Temple Israel’s daily operations—they keep our doors open, support our clergy and staff, and make our programs possible. Capital campaign gifts, however, invest in our future. They provide the resources needed to renovate, expand, and improve our campus in ways that annual operating funds simply cannot. Both are essential to ensuring Temple Israel remains a thriving Jewish home for generations to come.
Has the Board unanimously supported the campaign?

Yes. The campaign has been guided and supported by Temple Israel’s Board of Trustees throughout the planning process. After years of careful study, planning, and discussion, the Board approved moving forward with the campaign because of its importance to the congregation’s future and its alignment with Temple Israel’s long-term vision and mission.
What percentage of the goal has already been raised?

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our leadership donors, we have already raised more than $15 million toward our campaign goal. As we enter the public phase, our goal is to raise an additional $8.5 million over the coming months through the support of our congregation and community.

The remaining balance, if needed, will be financed through a carefully planned and fiscally responsible approach. Our intention is to limit financing to no more than $5 million, allowing construction to move forward while honoring multi-year pledge commitments and maintaining Temple Israel’s long-term financial stability.

This strong early momentum reflects the confidence our leadership donors have in Temple Israel’s future, and we are excited to invite the entire community to help bring this vision to life.
Do you have a timeline for construction?

We are working hard with our architects, engineers, and project team to develop a detailed construction timeline. While we are not yet able to share specific dates, part of the reason is that the project must go through the Town’s review and approval process. The timing of those approvals will help determine our final construction schedule. Our goal is to communicate a clear timeline well in advance of any work beginning. As plans are finalized and we move through the municipal approval process, we will provide regular updates so our community knows what to expect every step of the way.
How will this project impact our use of the building?

Our goal is to minimize disruption while construction is underway. Work will be carefully phased so that worship services, educational programs, lifecycle events, and community gatherings can continue with as little interruption as possible. We will communicate regularly with the congregation throughout the project and provide updates whenever temporary changes are needed. It is our intention to hold all life cycle events and services on our campus for the entire time during the construction.
How will the project improve security and safety?

The safety of our congregation has been a guiding principle throughout the planning process. The project includes significant investments in modern security infrastructure, improved building access and visibility, enhanced emergency preparedness, and upgrades that strengthen the safety of our campus while remaining welcoming to members and guests. These improvements build upon Temple Israel’s longstanding commitment to creating a secure environment for everyone who enters our doors.
Can I still have my lifecycle celebration here at the Temple?

Celebrating our community’s most meaningful moments remains a top priority. We recognize how important it is for families to mark occasions with celebrations at Temple Israel. As construction plans take shape, we will work creatively to minimize disruptions, adjust schedules when needed, and identify alternative spaces or solutions so these celebrations can continue.
Will the ECC and Kesher still be able to hold classes as normal?

Absolutely. Our Early Childhood Center and Kesher programs are at the heart of Temple Israel, and maintaining a safe, engaging, and high-quality experience for our students is one of our highest priorities. Construction will be carefully planned around our educational programs whenever possible, and if any adjustments become necessary, families will receive plenty of advance notice. Our commitment is to ensure that children continue to learn, grow, and thrive throughout the project.
Will the Temple have to finance a portion of the cost?

Yes. Like many successful capital campaigns, Temple Israel anticipates financing a portion of the project. Financing allows construction to move forward while pledge payments are fulfilled over several years. Our Board and Finance Committee are carefully evaluating this approach to ensure it is fiscally responsible and sustainable, balancing the needs of today with our commitment to the congregation’s long-term financial health. We expect to have a congregation meeting to vote on any financing that has to occur to complete the project.
What happens if we don't reach our fundraising goal?

Our campaign is being conducted in carefully planned phases, allowing us to evaluate progress and make informed decisions along the way. We are committed to being responsible stewards of our community’s resources. If necessary, project timelines or priorities can be adjusted to align with the funds raised, while ensuring we continue to address our most important needs.

Sponsorship Opportunities

CC Sponsors 9.8-1

Thank you to our Campaign Donors

$4,000,000+

Anonymous

$1,000,000+

Anonymous

Claudia and Art Cohen

Ellen and Paul Greenberg

$500,000+

Anonymous x2

Ellen and Daniel Crown and Family

Polly and Larry Klane

The Lebow Family

$250,000+

The Diamond Family

Jodi and Bill Felton

The Mondshine Family
Lawrence Zlatkin

$100,000+

Carol and Richard Eisner

Laurie and Scott Fortunoff

Lisa and Ed Friedland

Haley Lieberman and Rabbi Michael S. Friedman

Michelle and Kenny Gersh

Sheri and Paul Gordon

Ellen Lautenberg and Doug Hendel

Steve Lasner

Lillian and Gerald Luterman

Nancy and Daniel Magida

Debra Burnham and Ed Mally

Elizabeth and David Martin

Janet and Jacob Navon

Lisa and Anthony Pesco

The Plotkin, Weisenfeld and Kretz Families

Emily and Michael Rosnick

Barbara and Jonathan Roth

Marc Schechter and Evan Seigerman

Cindy and Alan Zuckerbrod

$50,000+

Cynthia and J. Norm Allen

Hallee and Dave Altman

Bonnie Ashman

Andreina and David Bauer

Arline and Joel Beckoff

Joyce N. Fensterstock

Meade and David Fogel

Liz and Michael Foster

Jenifer and Matt Gorin

Mary and Dan Hoffman

Nora and Steven Kalter

Linda Mandel and Arnold Lewis

Susan Greisman and Richard Lipton

Joan and Michael Miller

Lynn Rabinovici Park and Andrew Park

Margot and Jonathan Simmons

$25,000+

Jami and Daniel Aballi

Sarah and Seth Brody

Lauren and Sean Costello

Gretchen Rupp and David Fleisch

Rita Appel and Jon Fraade

Nanette and Perry Gandelman

Nancy and Larry Gorkin

Alissa and Sam Hendel

Claire Hurley and David Hertan

Laura and John Kaufman

Doree and Bob Levy

Robyn and Jeremy Matloff

Carlye Adler and Frank Nussbaum

Tami and Cliff Robinson

Leora Goren and Eric Shapiro

Danielle Schmelkin and Mary Wilson

$10,000+

Janet Albert

Lois and Joseph Block

Shelley and Mitch Driesman

Wendy and Kenneth Epstein

Elizabeth and Craig Flanders

Marci Sternheim and Sam Gardner

Ellen and Kenneth Greenwald

Sally and Michael Kliegman

Jill and Keith Lender

Gena and Billy Mann

Cheryl Hammer and Ken Mufson

Judith Meadows and Marc Krichavsky

Lauren and Gil Nathan

Judith and Brad Oren

Jennifer and Zachary Resnick

Valerie and Gary Schanzer

Steven Siegelaub

Dana and Steven Spencer

Lauren and Ted Traum

Betty and Adam Weiner

Aliza and Maury Wind

Susan and Stanley Witkow

Rebecca and Adam Zipkin

$5,000+

Sarah and Craig Cohen

Courtney and Michael Elgort

Peter Eliot

Amy and Marc Gare

Laurie and Dean Gaugler

Amy and Michael Gross

Candace and Mickey Herbst

Tammy and Brian Jersey

Michelle and Jeffrey Yanover

$360+

Lauren and Michael Bonifacius

Michele Corenman

Emma and Adam Kaye

Eileen and Allan Kleban

Rachel and Yaron Naymark

Jennifer Krasnow and Steve Snow

Kim and Eric Wiener

Suzy and Shaun Wolfson

Donations as of September 1, 2026

Please contact Karen Lafferty if you are interested in making a donation.

Send Karen an email

Call Karen at 203-227-1293 ext 346

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