The Avis Foundation
You Belong Here—Let Us Help You Join
At Temple Israel, we believe every family should have a place to grow, connect, and celebrate Jewish life—regardless of financial circumstances. Thanks to the Avis Foundation, young families with children up to age 12 can receive reduced membership costs.
The Avis Foundation: Investing in Our Future
The Avis Foundation was established in 2017 through the generosity of Dr. Ronald Avis, a devoted Temple Israel member with a vision for our synagogue’s future.
The Foundation has two main goals:
Support Young Families
The Foundation helps families with children (up to age 12) become part of Temple Israel by offering:
- Reduced membership fees for the first six years, leading to full membership in year seven.
- Free Religious School and help with building fund payments.
- Festival celebrations, cultural activities, and museum trips—all at no cost.
- Access to our adult and children’s choirs.
Build Future Leaders
The Foundation also supports parents with:
- Family participation in services led by Rabbi Michael Howald and Cantor Suzanne
Bernstein - Free adult education classes
- Opportunities to engage and grow as leaders in the Temple community

For more information: