BRATTLEBORO — The Brattleboro Area Jewish Community says it has adopted an “audacious” change in its approach to membership.
Previously, BAJC membership involved a request for a specific financial commitment (aka “dues”), with the caveat that they “do not turn anyone away who wishes to be a member” and that “special arrangements are kept in complete confidence.”
The BAJC Board of Trustees felt that people might be reluctant to ask for “special arrangements” (aka “dues abatement”), an uncomfortable situation even when it was made as easy as possible.
Now, BAJC has decided to no longer ask for membership dues.
“We're not a gym,” said Faith Schuster, chair of the BAJC membership committee, in a news release. “We don't want to charge a fee for use of our services and facilities.
“We ought to ask for 'gifts from the heart' to support the mission of the congregation, not dues,” Schuster said she told the committee.
The BAJC Board of Trustees unanimously adopted the new approach after the membership committee researched systems in use at synagogues and Jewish communities throughout the country.
Board President Daniel Kasnitz said the “no set dues, give from the heart” method ”reflects our goal of welcoming members and the community at large.”
More information about BAJC membership and programs can be found at www.BAJCvermont.org.