Home > COMMUNITY > Legacy Circle

.

The Legacy Circle was created in 2011 and has over 100 members who have chosen to remember Shomrei Torah in their will and estate planning as a named beneficiary. Others have created an "endowment" to support a particular program.

By joining the Legacy Circle, you will become part of an extraordinary group of committed individuals who share a common vision for the future preservation of our community, our traditions and our heritage. As a part of your Legacy Circle commitment, you will also be eligible to attend events exclusive to Legacy Circle.

The Mission of the Legacy Circle is to provide a philanthropic environment that enables members to insure the future of Shomrei Torah in a format that is supportive of both the areas of interest of the donor and the anticipated needs of our Reform Jewish community.

As we look forward to many more years of service to the Jewish community of Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, your Legacy gift will play a large part in insuring that our congregation and its programming are strong and vibrant.

I'm Ready to Join the Legacy Circle!

To join, fill out this brief form.

Legacy Circle Gatherings

In October 2024, around 40 Legacy Circle members gathered at the home of Marlene and Martin Stein, in a Sukkah made by Dan Klonsky and Judith Richlin-Klonsky, for brunch and conversation with Rabbi Andi Berlin.

.

In September 2024, the Legacy Circle hosted a Planning for the Expected and Unexpected workshop that included an estate planning attorney, a certified financial planner and a longtime Legacy Circle member. This informational event was open to all members and covered the basics of estate planning (trusts, wills, power of health care, use of an attorney, etc) and building a legacy. To view this event, go to https://vimeo.com/1009318681

.

In April 2024, Legacy Circle members gathered at Rabbi George's home. Click Here to read about the history of the Legacy Circle, written by member Irv Rothenberg.

.

In February 2024, Legacy Circle members went Back to Shuul with our STaRS students!

.

Thoughts from Current Legacy Circle Members

“Shomrei Torah has given us so much - especially in the area of adult Jewish education. We wanted to leave a legacy that will ensure that this opportunity will be available for those who come after us.”

“Including Shomrei Torah in our estate plan was simple to do and will serve in perpetuity as a loving reminder of our devotion to this community.”

“Becoming a part of Legacy Circle is a great way to make sure our lives are remembered for a blessing.”

“We recognize that sustaining a strong and vibrant Jewish community for future generations is the best way to express our appreciation for the gifts of past generations that once welcomed us into the Shomrei Torah community.”

Wed, April 30 2025
2 Iyar 5785

Frequently Asked Questions

Q “We really don’t have that kind of money.”
A No specific amounts are required, any gift is appreciated. Most members leave a modest percentage of their net estate, and some have specified a dollar amount.

Q “We are concerned that our children will need the money we have.”
A Because there is no minimum amount required, you can leave the majority of your estate to your children and a smaller percent or amount to Legacy Circle.

Q “We get the impression that the Legacy Circle is a sort of club for people who are really wealthy.”
A Most members are not wealthy, and committing to the future of CST costs nothing in your lifetime. Members are those who want to make certain that CST is here for others in the future.

Q “We don’t know what we may need financially when we get older—one of us has health problems.”
A If you specifiy a percentage of your will or trust, you will have the money to meet your needs, and the congregation benefits only if assets are left after all of your needs have been met.

Q “We may be able to consider this in the future, but not right now.”
A The time to set up your legacy is now. Nobody can predict the future, so doing it now provides the satisfaction of knowing you are ensuring that Congregation Shomrei Torah will be there for future generations. By becoming a member now, you can enjoy companionship with many fellow members at the special events held regularly just for the Legacy Circle members to keep them apprised of current and future planning for CST.

Request more info about Legacy Circle

The Legacy Circle Committee is here to answer your questions, help you with the few necessary forms, and guide you through the process of guaranteeing the future of Congregation Shomrei Torah beyond your lifespan.

If you are interested but have questions before signing up, email the CST office.

Or call us at (707)578-5519.

Wed, April 30 2025 2 Iyar 5785

HOME | DONATE | CALENDAR | CONTACT US

A Progressive Reform Jewish Congregation

2600 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, California 95404

Congregation Shomrei Torah is an inclusive Jewish community open to people of all ages, races and abilities. Welcoming interfaith families, people who are single, and LGBTQIA+.

Privacy Settings | Privacy Policy | Member Terms

Legacy Circle

.