Get Involved: HBT Committees
Temple Hillel B'nai Torah is a vibrant community guided by our core values of Avodah (Worship), Tikkun Olam (Social Action), Havurah (Community), and Torah (Learning). Much of our work happens through our committees — and their success depends on people like you.
Joining a committee is a great way to contribute to HBT's mission, build relationships, and deepen your connection to our community. Time commitments are flexible, and even small contributions help.
Below is a brief overview of each committee. If one sparks your interest, reach out to the listed contact, or to Benita Block, Director of Administration & Communication.
Avodah Committee
Addresses policy for religious practice at the Temple.
Contacts: Susannah Sirkin (smsirkin@gmail.com) & Henry Barber (henry.barber@comcast.net)
Banner Committee
Oversees banners, signs, and flags inside and outside the building, and maintains the banner policy.
Contact: Benita Block (bblock@templehbt.org)
Bitachon Committee (Security Taskforce)
Balances protecting our community with staying welcoming and open.
Contact: Benita Block (bblock@templehbt.org)
Chavurah Committee
Sets up small gatherings between congregants and Rabbi Aliza to build connection, and explores community-building ideas for HBT leadership to consider.
Contact: Rich Moche (rhmoche@gmail.com)
Chesed Committee
Organizes and provides support in times of joy and sorrow.
Contact: Jan Snitzer (jansnitzer22@gmail.com)
Finance Committee
Advises the Treasurer on the budget and manages the Temple's finances.
Contacts: Sheeri Cabral (me@sheeri.com) & Steve Leferrierre (slaferr@gmail.com)
Fundraising Committee
Plans and runs projects to raise money for the Temple's general fund.
Contact: Rahel Gruenberg (rahel.s.gruenberg@gmail.com)
Green Space Committee
Explores creating green space on the north end of the parking lot for the Chaverim School and congregation, and maintains the outside gardens.
Contact: Hillary Engler (hpengler@templehbt.org)
Israeli Palestinian Program Committee
Engages HBT members with varying perspectives through forums for learning and conversation that deepen understanding of the region's history and present-day realities.
Contacts: Sherry Flashman (sflashman@gmail.com) & Keren Sammett (k.sammett@comcast.com)
Lifelong Learning Committee
Plans educational programs for adults on Jewish culture, religion, social justice, and more.
Contact: Shelley Stevens (shelleystevens34@gmail.com)
Membership Committee
Develops and runs strategies for attracting and welcoming new members.
Contact: Rachel Nenner Payton (hbtrachelnp@gmail.com)
Operations Committee
Ensures the facilities are well maintained and energy-efficient.
Contact: Steve Leferrierre (slaferr@gmail.com)
School Committee
Oversees the operations and budget of the Chaverim (Hebrew) School.
Contact: Hillary Engler (hpengler@templehbt.org)
Tikkun Olam Committee
Plans activities and educational events on social awareness, social justice, and social responsibility.
Contact: Sherry Flashman (sflashman@gmail.com)
Ad Hoc Committees
Formed throughout the year for one-time and ongoing initiatives — past examples include Friday night dinners, the HBT Retreat, and the Sanctuary Campaign.
Contact: Benita Block (bblock@templehbt.org)
Interested in a committee that doesn't have a contact listed, or not sure where to start? Reach out to Benita Block and she'll point you in the right direction.