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Memorial Board Improvement Campaign

Memorial Board Improvement Campaign 2025

The memorial plaques in our CBI Sanctuary regularly serve as a link to our past and as a source of comfort to many of us. Seeing these reminders of our loved ones on a regular basis and memorializing them in our sacred space is a fitting tribute to all who came before us. It is deeply meaningful to see all the memorial lights illuminated during Yizkor services as well as each week when those with Yahrzeits come to recognize and remember their family members.

After many years of use, the memorial boards which hold the individual memorial plaques are showing their age and the CBI Board of Trustees has approved a plan for much needed improvements to be completed by High Holidays 2025. 

Improvements and installation is estimated to be $90,000. Some donations have already been pledged to offset the cost of these necessary improvements. We would like to invite our entire congregation to participate in this worthwhile fundraising campaign.

Why New Boards are Needed:

  • Boards are over 20 years old and mismatched from previous upgrades
  • The light next to each plaque can only be illuminated manually through a labor-intensive process
  • Many of the lights are malfunctioning beyond repair with replacement parts no longer available
  • Boards are approaching capacity with only limited space available and only in the highest locations

What New Boards Will Add: 

  • New memorial boards will match the current Sanctuary decor
  • A digital calendar will automatically light plaques when Yahrzeits are observed
  • LED lighting will be much brighter and will last considerably longer
  • Capacity will be increased to accommodate an additional 400 illuminated plaques

FAQs

What will happen to my existing plaques on the wall?

Existing plaques will remain in similar locations and family groupings will remain intact even though we will be adding additional new boards.  

If you would like to see your plaques moved during this renovation process please be in touch with Rabbi Tilman.

What is our timeline?

We are asking for donations by July 31, 2025.

Current boards will be taken down in August.

New boards will be installed by High Holidays 2025 with the first full use on Yizkor during Yom Kippur services.

How do I donate to the campaign?

Please consider a donation of $180, $360 or the amount of your choosing.

Donations of $1800+ will receive permanent recognition at CBI and include the ability to make the donation in memory of others. 

Click here to pay with credit card.

Have a check sent to the CBI office.

Speak to Aviva Tilles about options.

How do I buy new plaques?

Plaques are $400 each and take 6 to 8 weeks to process.

Purchase of plaques is separate from your donation.

Click here to complete the form and payment.

For new plaques to be illuminated on Yizkor during Yom Kippur 2025 plaque orders must be placed by July 3, 2025.

Additional Questions?

Contact Aviva Tilles at avivat@cbisp.org or call the office at 908-889-1830.

Thu, June 19 2025 23 Sivan 5785