A Closer Look: Tikkun Olam’s 2022 Project Prom

By Erica Slutsky | Communications Manager For three days at Temple Emanu-El, spanning donations, setup, and two boutique days, Project Prom not only brings people together, but grew out of the same need for generosity and community service that emboldens Tikkun Olam at Emanu-El. And so, this past April, close to 300 high school students …

Behind the Scenes With Emanu-El’s Volunteer Thanksgiving Turkey Carvers

“Just follow Norden’s instructions.” That’s the most important turkey carving tip from the seasoned volunteer carvers at Temple Emanu-El’s Thanksgiving Dinner. The Dinner isn’t for our members, but for those less fortunate who have nowhere to go on Thanksgiving. Our members coordinated volunteers, delegated, and prepared an entire meal for 200 guests — which involved …

Mitzvah Day 5780

A huge thank you to everyone: Wise Hall looked abundantly full on Mitzvah Day, when we all came together as one Temple community to volunteer, side by side. In the space of a morning, we accomplished an amazing mitzvah: 2,200 gift packages were assembled with love, ranging from dignity kits to Purim treats for the …

Thanksgiving Dinner 5780

From the appetizer to the delicious desserts, which included Thanksgiving cupcakes festively decorated by our volunteers, cinnamon doughnuts and a chocolate and vanilla parfait topped with fresh blueberries and raspberries, this Thanksgiving meal was a special way to share the warmth of the holiday with those who would otherwise be alone. All of our guests …

Planned Giving


“The strength of our community is measured not only by what we build in our time, but by the future we secure for those who will follow us. A legacy gift is a promise that Jewish life at Emanu-El will flourish for generations to come.” – Rabbi Joshua M. Davidson

Your Legacy. Your Values. Temple Emanu-El’s Future.

For over 180 years, Temple Emanu-El has been a spiritual home, a place of celebration, comfort, learning, and connection. Today, you can help ensure that our community remains strong for generations to come.

Planned Giving is a powerful way to support what you love, maximize your impact, and reduce your tax burden—all while preserving your values for the future.


Ways to Give

Gift in Your Will or Trust
Leave a dollar amount, a percentage, or the remainder of your estate to Temple Emanu-El.

  • Easy to set up
  • No cost today
  • May reduce estate taxes

Retirement Plans (IRA, 401(k), 403(b))
Name Emanu-El as a beneficiary—this is one of the most tax-smart ways to give.

  • 100% tax-free to Emanu-El
  • Avoids income tax heirs would otherwise pay
  • Simple form—no lawyer needed

Life Insurance
Name Emanu-El as a primary or secondary beneficiary, or donate a policy you no longer need.

  • Turn a small annual premium into a major gift
  • Adjust your plans anytime
  • May reduce estate taxes

Other Options
Depending on your goals, you might consider:

  • Charitable Remainder Trusts (income now, gift later)
  • Donor-Advised Funds (simplified charitable giving)
  • Appreciated assets (stock, real estate, etc.)

We’re happy to talk through what’s right for you. No commitment required.

Why Make a Legacy Gift?

Simple: Most gifts take just minutes to set up.

Flexible: You can adjust your plans at any time.

Impactful: Your legacy helps secure Jewish life, learning, and leadership.

Tax-Wise: Many options reduce estate or income tax, helping your gift go further.


Let’s Talk

We’re here to help you create a lasting legacy that works for your life, your family, and your values. It’s confidential and there’s no commitment—just a conversation.

Livia Massuda Kutsher
Director of Planned Giving and Endowments

212.507.9568

Join the Heritage Society

When you include Emanu-El in your plans, you become part of the Heritage Society—a warm, welcoming community of members who are building the future of Jewish life.

Heritage Society members enjoy:

  • Special recognition in publications and events
  • Invitations to exclusive gatherings with clergy and musicians
  • Opportunities to connect with others who share your values