I received this email from a Jewish leader and dear friend...
“We’re distracted right now and not operating on all cylinders. Maybe write something that would michazek us to reapply ourselves to our work, because Klal Yisrael needs us more than ever!”
We’re all busy and distracted at the moment. And there's a good chance we might not be communicating with our donors as we should.
Even if you're not asking for a donation right now, showing your cause in light of what's happening in Klal Yisrael is key.
How can you do that?
First take a look at this email - one leader I work with penned - this past week.
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Dear Kollel Family,
Other than those found in Sefer Tehillim, there are no words to express the intense shock, grief, and anxiety which we are all feeling so acutely at this time.
Those emotions are, in some measure, counterbalanced by concurrent feelings of hope, confidence, and pride in the Ribono Shel Olam and Klal Yisroel. We are lucky the Jewish heart is so big. How else could it contain so much at once?
It is due to these heavy sentiments that we have decided to postpone the upcoming Trustees Melaveh Malkah which was scheduled for October 21st.
The event itself would not be in contradiction with our current state. The program promises to be meaningful and Torah-focused and has the goal of raising funds to support the Harbatzas HaTorah of our Kollel, an important piece of supporting and sustaining Am Yisroel in Eretz Yisroel, especially now.
However, as critical as the funds are, it is impossible to imagine soliciting donations for anything other than the rescue, rehabilitation, and war efforts for Bnei Eretz Yisroel at this time. *Our hearts, minds, and wallets should be focused on saving and healing our People in our Homeland.*
You can continue to support the Kollel and the Milchemes Mitzvah by joining us in the Beis Medrash for davening and learning daily and nightly.
We look forward to a time at which we can again focus on building our makom Torah and celebrating its grand achievements together.
With a heavy, prayerful heart,
Rabbi …
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Isn't it amazing how a simple letter can bridge the gap between the heart of an organization and its supporters?
Here's what touched me from this heartfelt letter and how it can inspire us all:
Heartfelt Start: Right from the beginning, the letter reaches out, not as an organization to a donor, but as one heart to another. There's this beautiful, vulnerable moment that connects us all.
We're in This Together: When they talk about "hope, confidence, and pride," they're inviting us into the collective story of Klal Yisroel. It's not just about funds; it's about a shared journey.
We Get You: Deciding to delay the fundraising event? That's not just a strategic move. It shows that they genuinely understand what's going on around and the broader heartbeat of the Jewish world.
Trust Building: In mentioning the postponed event, they are open about its significance, reinforcing its importance and how it contributes to our community's strength. This kind of honesty builds trust. And that's gold.
Creating Connection: Their invite for "davening and learning daily and nightly" isn't about platitudes. It’s real. It's about staying connected to our mission. Reminding us all that our efforts matter, even in times of turmoil.
Brighter Days Ahead: The closing lines? They're filled with hope for a future when we’ll build our community. And celebrate together. And raise funds for our vital cause!
Be Personal: Phrases like "With a heavy, prayerful heart" don't just add words; they add depth. They make it so much more personal.
So, my friend, inspired by this letter, how will you reach out to your donors and supporters this week? How will you connect and deepen those ties that bind us all?
Besoros Tovos,
Avraham
© Avraham Lewis & Co.