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Dear Friends;

     Year after year, our congregation struggles to raise the funds needed
to continue to run and grow our programming. As these programs grow, so do
the financial obligations associated with them. As an offset to this need,
many of you have been asking " how can I endow money to the Shul ? ".

     We are pleased to announce that B'nai Shalom is establishing an
endowment program. The creation of an endowment is important to the future
well being and vitality of our Synagogue. It will provide financial
security and ensure that our children and grandchildren will always have
access to inspiring and creative Jewish education and religious activities.
Specific endowment funds will be carefully developed over time to expand
and secure our important programs and will enable us to improve and carry
on our mission to support our members and the community around us. At the
same time, some of these gifts can also be an important source of income
for you, the giver !

     Funding for the endowment will be provided through bequests,
charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities as well as funds
that YOU will create and the Synagogue will be the beneficiary of. To that
end, we expect B'nai Shalom will be assisted in this endeavor by the Jewish
Community Foundation of Metro West. The Foundation was established in 1949
and it is the largest federated foundation in New Jersey and is one of the
leading Jewish foundations across the country. The Foundation currently has
over $175 million in assets from member congregations and over $100 million
in future commitments. The Foundation is able to offer confidential
consultations for members of our congregation. In addition, a full range of
support services associated with the administration of the endowment
program is offered as well.

     In the near future, we will share with you additional information
about the endowment program. If you have any questions in the meantime,
please do not hesitate to contact me via the Shul office ( 973 ) 731 - 0160
or by e-mail bnaicoffee@aol.com

     We look forward to strengthening B'nai Shalom with your continued
support

Sincerely
Steven D. Colten, Chair