National Shul Leaders Brainstorm on Budget, March 17

06 Mar 2009

The Orthodox Union will present a special brainstorming discussion for synagogue presidents and treasurers to address budgetary concerns and considerations in the current economic climate. The session, to originate on Tuesday, March 17 at 6:00 p.m. EDT, will use conference call and website technology to enable shuls all over North America to participate.

A committee of current and former presidents and treasurers have already begun preparing the agenda, and will share a number of specific cost-cutting approaches. Topics will include expenditures, membership dues, high holiday considerations, fundraising and other significant issues. A list-serv will be developed as an outgrowth of deliberations for future dialogue. With their president’s permission, executive directors may participate as well.

According to Frank Buchweitz, OU National Director of Community Services and Special Projects, synagogues will be asked to share cost-cutting ideas they already implement and to suggest concerns they would like to see discussed. “No matter what the size of the shul, there are certain common considerations that can be addressed,” he said.

To be part of the conference call, live website or to attend in person at OU headquarters, register at .