A Note from the Board in this Time of Challenge

We have a remarkable community that always steps up in extraordinary ways.  The board had the opportunity to step up first when Michael Saxe-Taller, our beloved ED, went out on medical leave, and then with the attack of the corona virus.  We worked in partnership with Rabbi Dev, Hazzan Shulamit, Rabbi Gray, Natalie, Maya, Dee and the rest of the staff, to move with the ever changing landscape and ever changing need to alter plans that had been made only a day (or less) prior.  We are fortunate to have as a board member, Ori Tzvieli, deputy health officer for Contra Costa County, to advise us and to help us see what might be in store for us down the line.  

But the day to day administrative needs continue.  The Generosity Committee, which had worked so hard in planning the Climate Justice event, has had to dismantle the plans that were in place and is strategizing how to creatively fundraise.  The work of putting next year’s budget together continues, with Michael focussing on this as his strength improves.  We know that we are going to have to make some significant changes to the budget.  The personnel committee has continued the searches that were underway.   

We invite everyone into conversation with us.  We had one small group Zoom meeting to discuss the dues structure; we welcome more of these discussions, whether about dues or any other aspect of Kehilla life.  All board meetings are open – we had a successful first Zoom board meeting this week, with a number of non-board members joining.  All board minutes and agendas are now posted on the website under calendar and communications.  

And we are very, very grateful to the spiritual leaders who are streaming services, Kehilla Sings, and meditation, who are reaching out to those in our community most at risk and isolated.  This is the fuel we need to continue, and why we are very grateful to have the opportunity to serve on the Kehilla Board of Trustees.