Why are we doing this project now?
From a project and cost standpoint, Temple Sholom’s core infrastructure—including cooling, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems—requires critical renovation. Without action, the congregation is projected to spend over $4 million on temporary fixes over the next decade. Investing in a comprehensive solution now is both more cost-effective and essential to ensuring our building can serve the community for generations to come. But this project is about more than just infrastructure. It’s about meeting this moment—creating a safe, joyful, and vibrant hub for Jewish life in Chicago. By reimagining our space, we are investing in a future where community, connection, and belonging can flourish.  

What is the total cost of the project?
The total cost to reconstruct, redevelop, and reimagine our building is estimated at $32 million. This will be funded primarily through private philanthropy, through the Be The Flame campaign.

What is the timeline for construction?
Depending on the progress of the Be The Flame campaign, our aim is to break ground after the High Holy Days in 2027. Accounting for approximately two years of construction, our goal is to return to a renewed Temple Sholom by Rosh Hashanah 2029 in time to celebrate our 100th anniversary on Lake Shore Drive. 

Where will Temple Sholom go during construction?
Depending on the phasing of the project, Temple Sholom will relocate to a temporary nearby space(s) for Shabbat, religious school, early childhood education, staff offices, community programming, and one High Holy Day season. At this juncture, it is too early to identify exact spaces for relocation. That said, a task force is currently working to identify appropriate temporary opportunities. 

What is the plan for b’nai mitzvah ceremonies during construction?
Temple Sholom is committed to ensuring that all b’nai mitzvah ceremonies remain meaningful and memorable milestones. During the construction period, we are offering our families four different options - to either move the b'nai mitzvah date earlier or later at Temple Sholom, hold b’nai mitzvah services at our temporary Shabbat space nearby, or our clergy will travel to officiate b’nai mitzvah ceremonies at your chosen venue. Our clergy and staff will continue to provide personalized support, tutoring, and preparation to ensure that your child and your family has a incredible experience.

What is the plan for parking?
Temple Sholom has thoroughly explored all options regarding parking on our existing lot. After a professional assessment, there are considerable obstacles to expanding parking capacity above or below the existing lot for this campaign. While a structure is not feasible at this time, we are actively exploring creative parking solutions, including shuttle services, valet, and partnerships with nearby lots. 

Will any of the new spaces generate revenue?
Yes. The Be The Flame project is designed not only to enhance our sacred space but also to support long-term financial sustainability. New and renovated areas—such as flexible event spaces, a refreshed sanctuary suitable for performances, and an expanded Gan Shalom early childhood program—will create new revenue-generating opportunities. In addition, by upgrading our building’s infrastructure with modern, energy-efficient systems, we anticipate significant cost savings over time through reduced utility and maintenance expenses. These improvements will help ensure that Temple Sholom remains both vibrant and fiscally responsible for years to come.

Who will be asked to participate in the campaign?
Everyone in the Temple Sholom community will be invited to participate in the Be The Flame campaign. This is a collective effort to secure the future of our sacred home, and every gift—regardless of size—makes a meaningful impact. Together, we can ensure that Temple Sholom continues to be a vibrant center for Jewish life for generations to come.

How can I be sure my gift goes toward fulfilling the campaign goals?
Transparency and accountability are central to the Be The Flame campaign. Temple Sholom is both morally and legally committed to ensuring that all funds raised are used exclusively for the purposes outlined in the campaign—namely, the redevelopment and renewal of our sacred home. Contributions are tracked and managed separately from annual operating funds, and regular updates will be shared with the community to demonstrate how gifts are being used to bring our shared vision to life.

I already give to the Annual Fund. Why should I give to this campaign too?
Thank you for supporting the Annual Fund—your generosity helps sustain the day-to-day operations that keep Temple Sholom running, from clergy and staff salaries to programming, worship, and education. The Be The Flame campaign, however, is a separate, once-in-a-generation capital initiative focused on the physical transformation of our building. While the Annual Fund supports our present, Be The Flame is an investment in our future. It addresses long-term needs like infrastructure upgrades, sanctuary renewal, and the creation of modern, flexible spaces for learning and gathering. These are improvements that cannot be funded through annual giving alone.

Will my gift be recognized?
Yes. All donors will be acknowledged with gratitude and gifts at all levels will be recognized at the end of the campaign. There are special recognition opportunities that begin at $25,000 and named spaces recognition opportunities start at $100,000. You may also choose to give anonymously if you prefer. 

What are my giving options?
Temple Sholom is flexible on how you pay out your gift as well as the timing for paying your gift. Options include:

• Multi-year pledges
• Cash or check
• Credit card or EFT
• Stock or appreciated securities
• Donor Advised Funds (DAFs)
• Private or family foundations
• IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
• Bequests, on a case-by-case basis 

We encourage you to consult your financial advisor and reach out to Tal Rosen, Director of Development, (tal@sholomchicago.org) for personalized support.

Can I pay my pledge over multiple years?
Yes. Most donors choose to fulfill their pledge over a period of three to five years, making it easier to give a meaningful gift that aligns with their financial planning. You can set up a payment schedule that works best for you—monthly, quarterly, or annually. Our Development Office is happy to work with you to create a plan that’s convenient and manageable.

Can I combine different types of gifts?
Absolutely. Many donors combine a cash pledge with a planned gift or stock donation. This flexibility allows you to make a meaningful impact in a way that aligns with your financial goals.

Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes. Temple Sholom of Chicago is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Who can I talk to about my gift or with questions?
Please contact Tal Rosen, Director of Development (tal@sholomchicago.org) or Stephanie Feldbein, Development Manager (stephanie@sholomchicago.org). 
 

Thank you very much for your support of the Be the Flame Campaign at Temple Sholom! Each gift that we receive is incredibly meaningful and helps get us closer to revitalizing our building for our community and future generations.  

Every gift to the Be the Flame Campaign will be recognized in the Be the Flame Book that will be produced at the conclusion of the Campaign. We have several recognition options so if you are making a gift in memory or honor of a loved one, as a family, or prefer to remain anonymous, we will have options that will work for you.  

Gifts of $25,000 will be recognized through our permanent Be the Flame Campaign donor recognition area that will reside in our newly renovated space.  

Gifts of $50,000 will receive prominent placement in our donor recognition area and will be offered the opportunity to record your family’s Temple Sholom story for your personal use and use in our digital archive. 

For gifts of $100,000 or more, we have unique named space opportunities throughout the newly renovated space. A full list of opportunities can be found here. If you are interested in a named space opportunity, please contract Tal Rosen, Director of Development, at tal@sholomchicago.org