The Book of Life

The Book of Life recognizes individuals and families who have made a commitment to secure the future of the Richmond Jewish community, either through a current gift to a permanent endowment fund or through a deferred gift. These legacy gifts help ensure the future of our Jewish community, guaranteeing that the strong and vibrant agencies, congregations, museums and schools that our parents and grandparents worked so hard to build will be here for our children, our grandchildren, and generations to come.

What is the Book of Life?

Donors are recognized in the Book of Life, a permanent archive for our community located in the lobby of the Weinstein JCC. In the spirit of an ethical will, the interactive Book of Life is a personal, not a legal commitment made by one generation to the next to secure the future of our Jewish community locally, in Israel, and worldwide.

Who is eligible to sign the Book of Life?

Anyone, regardless of age, wealth, or affiliation, who promises to establish an endowment or leave a bequest, in any amount is invited to sign their name in the Book of Life. By establishing an endowment, or leaving a bequest of $10,000 or more, you will have the opportunity to sign the Book and compose a personal statement of up to 300 words.

How do I prepare my personal statement?

Your statement, along with a photograph, details your personal thoughts, passions, and experiences that inspired the gift of a Jewish legacy to the Richmond Jewish community. Your Book of Life entry, will serve as a permanent testimony to your devotion to our Jewish heritage and community. If you are eligible to sign the Book of Life or need some help writing your statement, please contact the RJF office.