Legacy Giving

Creating your Jewish legacy ensures that you will be remembered and that your passion and your values will continue when you are no longer here. It also serves as an example to your loved ones that you believe it is important to support the Jewish community. The act of creating a legacy empowers you to complete the work of your heart. By leaving a legacy, you will help to ensure that the traditions and institutions important to you remain vibrant for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who do I contact, what are my next steps?
Please contact our Executive Director, Carly Litwok or fill out the Declaration of Intent and return it to the synagogue office.

2. Do I need to give you money now?
No! A Legacy Gift is a commitment that Har Shalom has been included in your will or estate planning.

3. Can I change my mind?
Yes. You can change your mind at any time. This is your gift and your legacy to Har Shalom.

4. Where is the money being managed?
Legacy funds were initially invested with the United Jewish Endowment Fund (UJEF) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.  With the guidance from our Investment Committee, we transitioned the investment to a group of diversified, low cost mutual funds with Vanguard.  Decisions on investment changes are made jointly between the President, Treasurer and Executive Director of Har Shalom.  The Board and Congregation will review and approve the Budget Committee's recommendation for usage of a portion of any investment earnings in the Congregation's operating budget.

5. How will Har Shalom use the funds?
Legacy Gifts will be used to extend the support you have provided Har Shalom during your lifetime and guarantee that your influence will continue to impact the future. The money will be used to partially fund future operating expenses as well to support religious, social, and educational programming.

6. Do I need a lawyer?
Yes and no. Although there are many simple options, i.e. naming Congregation Har Shalom as a beneficiary to receive a designated amount or percentage of the proceeds of a life insurance policy or the remaining balance of a retirement fund, you may wish to consult a lawyer for more complex Legacy Gifts.

The Har Shalom Legacy Circle is being created to recognize donors who thoughtfully provide for the future of Congregation Har Shalom through a Planned Legacy Gift.

When you create a bequest from a Will or Trust for the benefit of Congregation Har Shalom, or designate Congregation Har Shalom as a beneficiary to receive a percentage of the proceeds from a life insurance policy or retirement fund, or similar estate planning gift, you will be permanently honored as such as a member of the Legacy Circle.