Three years ago, the Jewish Community Foundation awarded grants to twelve Jewish organizations in San Diego to create or continue their endowment programs. Our synagogue was one of the fortunate recipients.

As part of the agreement with JCF, we created an endowment plan and revised our endowment investment policy. Our plan was to establish Chevrat Bonim, to seek bequests from congregants, and that the membership of Chevrat Bonim would reach 38 legacy gifts by the end of the 3-year period. The period ends June 30, 2007. We are fortunate; we have 42 members of Chevrat Bonim.

To become a member of Chevrat Bonim, we ask that you commit to making a bequest to the Endowment Fund. The amount is up to you, and we will not ask you how much your gift will be. You continue to manage the money while you are alive. Donations to the Endowment Fund are held at the Jewish Community Foundation and are invested for us according to our investment policy. We are permitted to withdraw the dividends and income from the investments but not the principal.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Chevrat Bonim, please speak to Rabbi Rosenthal, Scott Blumen, Seth Krosner, or Susy Lerner or call the office at 619 697-6001.