Sustainability FAQs

Q: What is the Sustainability Model?

A: The Sustainability Model relies on annual financial contributions from every Adat Ari El member household rather than traditional membership dues to sustain our operations, facilities, programs, and services. Our schools will continue to remain funded primarily through tuition. We encourage members to meet, or exceed, the current average “sustainability” amount of $2,800 needed to ensure Adat Ari El remains financially stable.

Q: Does this mean membership is free?

A: No. Each member of our community is relied upon to make an annual financial contribution.

Q: Will members take advantage of the ability to choose their annual contribution?

A: We trust the integrity and commitment of the Adat Ari El community, and we are confident our members will do what they can each year to ensure the sustained future of Adat Ari El.

Q: How was the $2,800 average sustainability level determined?

A: We simply divided the total revenue needed to sustain our operations by the number of anticipated contributing households.

Q: What if I cannot afford to contribute at one of the suggested Contribution Levels?

A: If this year you cannot afford to give at the sustaining level, we ask that you pledge at the highest level you are able, and that each year you faithfully reevaluate your ability to support Adat Ari El.

Q: Why should I contribute more than the current $2,800 average sustainability level?

A: Our Sustainability Model depends upon a sufficient number of member households contributing above the $2,800 average sustainability level. We know many households can contribute more than this amount, and some will need to contribute less. We are counting on those who can generously support Adat Ari El to continue doing so in order to sustain this congregation and keep our community thriving.

Q: Why did Adat Ari El changing from traditional membership dues to the Sustainability Model?

A: Many Conservative and Reform congregations are reexamining how they best can support and grow their communities using revenue models that most effectively attract and retain congregants. We believe our Sustainability Model will make it easier for all to feel welcome at Adat Ari El.  We are excited to have welcomed nearly 200 new member units since we launched this new model in 2018.

Q: Will I be asked to make other contributions to Adat Ari El?

A: The Sustainability Model completely replaces all traditional membership dues, security fees, etc. We will maintain other fundraising campaigns and events. Each spring we will ask that you pledge your annual contribution to Adat Ari El for the coming fiscal year.

We are eager to simplify this process for you and answer any questions you may have. Please contact Jessica Biber, our Director of Community Relations, at 818-766-9426 ext. 257 if you have further questions.