Welcome and Introduction
Serving as a Trustee or Officer on the Temple Adat Elohim (TAE) Board of Trustees is a meaningful way to lead and shape our community. TAE thrives on the dedication of individuals who step up to contribute their time, ideas, and passion. Board service not only supports the temple’s mission but also offers the opportunity to engage in impactful work, build lifelong friendships, and strengthen the foundation of our community.
About the Board of Trustees
The TAE Board of Trustees plays a vital role in fulfilling the temple’s mission:
“Temple Adat Elohim is a welcoming and fulfilling Jewish community embracing those who seek spirituality, knowledge, and a desire to heal the world.”
Board members are instrumental in creating policies, setting goals, and ensuring the overall well-being and growth of the congregation.
Responsibilities of a Trustee
Serving as a trustee is both a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Below are the key responsibilities and expectations:
- Leadership and Advocacy
- Uphold and promote TAE’s mission, values, and vision.
- Advocate for an inclusive, vibrant, and financially stable temple community.
- Support and Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with the lay and professional leadership of TAE.
- Support and participate in guiding temple policies and decisions.
- Act as an ambassador, fostering effective communication within the community.
- Engagement and Attendance
- Attend monthly board meetings and participate in committee meetings as selected.
- Participate in TAE functions throughout that align to your family and your interests.
- Volunteer to assist at and be present for high holy day services and other events that you attend.
- Governance and Planning
- Establish strategic and long-term plans for the congregation.
- Review temple programs and services to ensure they align with the congregation’s mission and goals.
- Assess program effectiveness and recommend adjustments as necessary.
- Encourage creative solutions and innovative ideas to address challenges and enhance the temple’s future.
- Evaluate the performance of senior leadership and clergy to ensure their efforts align with temple goals and objectives and are meeting the needs of TAE.
- Monitor financial performance, approve annual budgets, and support fundraising efforts.
- Lead committees and task forces as needed.
- Ensure that governance decisions reflect the diverse voices and needs of the congregation.
- Community Building
- Foster connections with new members, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
- Be a trusted resource and liaison for congregants seeking information or guidance.
- Personal and Ethical Commitment
- Lead by example through personal participation in temple events and financial contributions.
- Maintain confidentiality and avoid/manage conflicts of interest appropriately.
Why Serve on the Board?
Serving on the TAE board provides opportunities to:
- Make a meaningful impact on our synagogue and community.
- Build strong relationships with fellow congregants and leaders.
- Shape the future of TAE for generations to come.
What You Need to Know
- Time Commitment: Board members dedicate the equivalent of approximately one hour per week to board work and attend one evening meeting per month. Additional time may be required for committee work or special projects.
- Board Composition: The Board consists of 12 members, including officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer) and trustees. Officers and trustees are elected for two-year terms, with staggered elections held annually.
- Committees: Trustees may lead or participate in committees such as Budget/Finance, Human Resources, Leadership and Governance, Development, Program Council.
Is Board Experience or Deep TAE Knowledge Required?
Worried you may not have enough knowledge about the temple or experience to serve as a Trustee? Don’t be! While experience and knowledge can be helpful, they are not prerequisites for serving on the TAE Board of Trustees.
New trustees often bring fresh perspectives and creative ideas that enrich board discussions and decision-making. What matters most is a willingness to learn, a passion for contributing to the congregation, and a commitment to TAE’s mission and values.
Serving on the board is an opportunity to grow personally and as a leader. Many trustees start with limited experience and find that they learn and develop along the way. Current and past trustees, as well as members of the Nominating Committee, are available and welcome the opportunity to mentor and guide new board members.
Your unique voice is essential in ensuring the board reflects the diversity of our community. By stepping forward, you help shape the future of Temple Adat Elohim while gaining new skills, building relationships, and deepening your connection to the TAE and our congregational community.
Ready to Get Involved?
We’d love to hear from you! If you’re curious about serving as a TAE Trustee, please reach out to the our office manager at (805) 497-7101 or operations@adatelohim.com, who will connect you with the Chair of the Nominating Committee.
The Chair would be delighted to chat with you, answer any questions you might have, and connect you with others who can share their experiences and insights. Whether you’re exploring the possibility or ready to take the next step, we’re here to support and guide you every step of the way. Every former trustee started right where you are today. All they (and you) needed to do was take a first step.
Thank you for considering this exciting and meaningful opportunity to lead and serve your community