Bringing Light All Year: HBT’s Hanukkah Solar & Sustainability Campaign
This winter, Temple Hillel B’nai Torah is launching a season of light—our Hanukkah “Bringing Light All Year” Campaign—to care for our aging building and illuminate a more sustainable future.
For generations, HBT has been a home for progressive Jewish life, joyful learning, justice work, and a community where everyone belongs. Today, our building needs care—and we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make it stronger, greener, and more financially stable.
From November through January, we are rallying the community to raise $50,000 to unlock a matching grant from the Jewish Solar Challenge.
This campaign is a visionary plan for a new roof, solar array, and heat pump system that will transform HBT into a fully electrified, climate-conscious building powered by renewable energy.
Just as the Hanukkah story teaches that light can last beyond what anyone expected, our solar project will help HBT shine—not just for eight nights, but for decades to come.
Our Vision: A Greener, Stronger HBT
1. Replace the Roof
A safe, durable, solar-ready roof that protects our sanctuary, classrooms, and community spaces.
2. Install Solar Panels
Our plan includes a 126-panel solar array (54.81 kW-DC) producing 120% of our annual electric use—shifting HBT from burning oil to producing clean power.
Solar brings light in the darkest time of year and helps HBT shine year-round.
3. Electrify the Building with Heat Pumps
By installing high-efficiency heat pumps, we can retire our aging oil furnace, greatly reduce carbon emissions, and create a more comfortable environment for davening, learning, and gathering.
Why This Matters Now
A Roof at the End of Its Life
Our roof is nearly 30 years old and needs replacement, with an expected cost of $112,500. Delaying repairs risks leaks, interior damage, and rising costs.
A Moment of Possibility
Because we must replace the roof anyway, we can design it to support solar panels and electrification. Doing everything together—roof + solar + heat pumps—saves time, money, and disruption.
This is a chance to align HBT’s building with the values that define our community: sustainability, responsibility, and care for future generations.
Financial Impact: Responsible, Sustainable, Forward-Thinking
Annual solar loan payment: ~$14,000
Current electricity budget: ~$15,000/year
Over time, solar savings offset costs and protect HBT from rising energy prices.
Donations now reduce what we need to borrow—keeping more money in our community.
Your gift is part of a strategic, values-aligned investment in HBT’s long-term stability.
Your Gift Brings the Light
This year-end, tax-year–aligned campaign invites every household to participate.
Your gift will:
Replace the roof
Install solar panels
Add heat pumps
Reduce HBT’s carbon footprint
Unlock a matching grant when we reach our $50,000 campaign goal
Support the broader $150,000 annual goal that keeps our programs strong
Ways to Give
One-time donation
Multi-year pledge
Give in honor/memory of a loved one
Gifts of appreciated stock
End-of-year charitable giving (before December 31)
Every contribution helps!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why combine Hanukkah with a solar campaign?
Hanukkah celebrates resilience, resourcefulness, and the miracle of light. Solar brings energy independence and environmental responsibility—our modern expression of that ancient story.
Is this financially responsible?
Yes. The project stabilizes long-term energy costs, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and aligns with our mission and values.
How does this connect to HBT’s identity?
HBT has always adapted, evolved, and led—merging history with innovation. This project continues that legacy.
Can I speak to someone about a larger gift or pledge?
Yes—please contact [insert contact] to explore leadership giving, multiyear pledges, or naming opportunities.
Join Us: Help HBT Shine Brighter for Generations
Together, we can bring light into the winter and build a synagogue that shines—sustainably, responsibly, and joyfully—every single day of the year.
Help us meet the $50,000 goal. Help us unlock the match. Help us power HBT’s future.