November 10, 2011

Dear Friends and Supporters of Makom,

The beginning of a new Jewish year is the ideal time to reflect on past achievements and set future goals, both for individuals and our community as a whole.  The past year was an incredible period of growth for Makom: we offered 93 meaningful programs spanning arts, social and environmental activism, spirituality and learning.  Some highlights were our 27 bi-weekly soulful and song-filled Friday night services, a sold-out Tu bi-Shvat Eco-Kabbalistic Seder Dinner, and programs that integrated Jewish tradition and creativity for Purim and Tish`ah be-Av.

Our more recent outstanding achievements include the inauguration of Makom Families – monthly programming for kids and their families – and the launch of our Downtown Jewish Play School with its unique mix of Hebrew immersion play and creative Jewish content.  For the first time, we offered extensive High Holiday programming, including Lakeside Tashlikh, Nuit Blanche Rooftop Havdalah and Art Workshop, and multiple, alternative Yom Kippur afternoon experiences culminating in an incredibly spirited and beautiful Ne`ilah service.  None of these programs required any tickets or payment.

We are proud that we have been able to facilitate innovative, joyous and relevant ways to experience Judaism for our blossoming downtown community.  Makom creatively brings Judaism out of the sanctuary and into our multifaceted lives.  And we do all this – an average of eight programs each month, reaching more than a thousand people on our email list and hundreds more on Twitter and Facebook – on a shoestring budget.

Now in our third year, Makom is beginning to leave the start-up stage and enter a period of sustainable growth and organizational stability.  In order to keep operating and moving forward, we need the financial support of our community and champions.

Makom is funded almost entirely through individual donations.  While Makom has also been the beneficiary of four grants totaling $9,000, as an independent community, we must sustain ourselves.

So far in 2011, we have raised $21,145 and we need to raise another $48,855 to meet our fundraising goal of $70,000 and balance our budget.  That’s why we’re asking you – the people who truly know the importance of the distinctive blend of tradition and creativity that Makom brings to downtown Jewish life – to make a personally significant donation now to ensure the continued growth and development of Makom and vibrant Judaism in downtown Toronto.

We understand that not everyone’s financial situation is the same, and therefore we have outlined suggested giving levels based on financial ability. These are, of course, just recommendations and if you cannot give as much, or if you are able to donate more, please contribute generously within your means.

Suggested donations (per person):

• Student or Limited Income: $36 – $100
• Start Up (first few years out of school): $72 – $200
• Growth (already working for a few years): $150 – $300
• Established (profitable career): $250+

Supporting Makom financially is a direct investment in your community.  It’s a confirmation that you believe in what Makom accomplishes and value our presence downtown.

Please make your cheque payable to “Toronto Partnership Minyan” (our charitable-host organization) with Makom on the note line and send it to 141 Markham St., Toronto, ON M6J 2G4.  Tax receipts will be issued.  You can also contribute online using credit card via Canada Helps through Toronto Partnership Minyan; be sure to include a message that your gift is for Makom.  (Please note that Canada Helps will issue your tax receipt and will take 4% of your donation as a transaction fee, so if sending a cheque is an option, please do so.  If you don’t require a Canadian tax receipt, please make your cheque payable directly to “Makom.”)

We’d also like to request that you pass on this appeal to your family and friends who might value Makom’s creative approaches to Jewish life and community.

Thank you for reading this and for being part of Makom.  We look forward to your continued commitment and support.

With our warmest regards and thanks,

Rabbi Aaron Levy, Founder and Director  &
Felicia Brooker, Leadership Team Fundraising Chair

To learn more about Makom’s impact, check out our NEW VIDEO.