Communal finances – Money troubles in shuls, schools and organizations

כספי מוסדות וקהילה – קשיים כלכליים במוסדות

The Rebbe's guidance to those running shuls, schools and communal organizations through financial difficulty:

Communal money is a trust. The Torah cares for the property of every Jew — individuals, communities, even the Beis HaMikdash — so avoid needless costs even in how funds are transferred (IK 012). Take responsibility for debts in communal projects such as publishing (IK 213).

Don't let a deficit pile up. When a shul fell behind on paying its Rav, the Rebbe advised that the members advance the money now, then hold an appeal at the first opportunity and set up a special fund so loans won't be needed again (IK 930). An institution struggling financially needs someone who devotes himself to its finances — ideally someone with a personal stake in it — and careful planning before expanding (IK 2153). Consult with the community on financial problems rather than carrying them alone (IK 6278). For a community's collective debt, an organized plan such as a bank loan with proper security can be the right step (IK 6978).

Rely on yourselves. Organizations should raise their own funds actively rather than depend on outside support, and staff should value stability over a quick payout (IK 6378).

Keep going. Difficulties are to be expected — the holier the undertaking, the greater the obstacles — and success depends above all on the strong will of those who run it, especially in Jewish education (IK 7149). Don't cut back the work because of financial strain (IK 970), and supporting Torah institutions should go hand in hand with one's own spiritual growth (IK 6167).

Keep in touch. Report regularly and promptly, especially when there are financial difficulties, so help can be given in time (IK 131, 2153).

See also: Livelihood – Financial hardship and money trouble (for personal and family finances).

Shiurim in this topic

930. Practical Action, Divine Presence, and the Value of Physical Deeds מעשה בפועל, שכינה, וערך המעשים הגשמיים

›

970. Awaiting Good News on Support for Work in Africa ממתין לבשורות טובות על תמיכה בעבודה באפריקה

›

2153. Delayed Correspondence, Financial Concerns, and Exam Preparation עיכוב התכתבות, דאגות כספיות, והכנה לבחינות

›

6167. Financial Support, Shidduch Guidance, and the Necessity of Pnimiyus HaTorah תמיכה כספית, הדרכה בשידוך, והצורך בפנימיות התורה

›

6278. Growth in Torah Study, Influence on Friends, and Financial Guidance התפתחות בלימוד התורה, השפעה על חברים, והדרכה כלכלית