Shomrei Torah is the Hebrew Academy’s Annual Fundraising Campaign that helps bridge the gap between tuition income and actual operating expenses. The Annual Campaign is an essential component of our school’s financial model and the largest source of unrestricted dollars that can be used to support our growing needs. Tuition covers roughly 70% of the cost of educating each child. The funds raised from this campaign support the general operating budget and have a direct impact on the everyday lives of HAMC students. The funds raised help with scholarships, technology upgrades, professional development, teacher enrichment, unique programming, and building enhancements. Unrestricted gifts made to Shomrei Torah also gives the school the flexibility to take advantage of unexpected opportunities and address unforeseen challenges as they emerge during the year.

Why is tuition not enough?

Shomrei Torah allows us to keep the cost of tuition down so that a Jewish education from the Hebrew Academy is accessible to a diverse population. Private schools rely on tuition, endowment income and fundraising proceeds to meet their operating expenses.

Who contributes to the Annual Campaign?

The Hebrew Academy relies on funds from many different groups, including current and past parents, alumni and former students, current and past grandparents, faculty, staff and friends of the greater community.

Why should I give?

Your support of Shomrei Torah demonstrates confidence in the overall mission and goals of the school. In addition, since the award of community grants is partially determined by annual campaign participation levels, your actions prove that the community at large is committed to the Hebrew Academy’s future. Our school is growing, and as we strive to meet our expanding needs, we continually seek increased participation in our campaign, enabling us to continue to provide scholarships and build upon our academic and community excellence. Our goal is to have 100% participation by our current families, staff, and Board members. In the last few years, the amount raised through Shomrei Torah has greatly increased, as has the number of donors. Participation among K-8 parents has gone from 22% to more than 85%. In addition, we have seen an increase in participation by many ECC parents, alumni, alumni parents, grandparents, staff, and friends. Your gift makes a difference. You will further our present success and pave the way for our future growth by making the Hebrew Academy of Morris County your philanthropic priority. For your convenience, you can make a tax deductible contribution to the HAMC by sending a check directly to the school or by using the DONATE found at the bottom of each page to make an online donation.

How much should I give?

Shomrei Torah levels begin at $180. To be a member of the Shomrei Torah Society, you must give $180 or more. However, contributions of any amount are welcome and acknowledged.

How will my donation be recognized?

All donations are recognized in various school publications, and each year, the names of the members of the Shomrei Torah Society are inscribed on a plaque in the school. In addition, each spring, the school sponsors an event to recognize members of the Shomrei Torah Society and our accomplishments.

Are matching gifts from employers accepted?

Absolutely. Numerous companies offer a matching gift program for their employees and their families. Check if your company participates in the corporate match program, and, if they do, obtain a matching gift form from your company's Matching Gift Coordinator (usually in the Human Resources or Community Relations department), fill it out, and send it in with your contribution.

For more information on Shomrei Torah, please call Naomi Bacharach, Director of Marketing and Development, at 973-584-5530, ext 3015, or nbacharach@hamc.org