Tom Ruderman knew that he wanted to honor the memory of his wife, Jan (z”l), by giving back to their synagogue, Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation – Emek Shalom, choosing to establish the Jan L. Ruderman Membership Support Fund. Tom shared his reasons why in this heartfelt tribute below, which was originally featured in his synagogue’s newsletter.

At the end of 2023, my wife, Jan, died of pancreatic cancer. We have been members of FVJC-ES for many years and raised our children in the community. Jan was a former board member and valued being part of the welcoming and supportive community that Rabbi Bekah and the board have built. She also took comfort from Rabbi Bekah’s support during her illness and would have wanted as many people as possible to be able to join and benefit from membership in the FVJC-ES community.

In meeting with lay leaders at FVJC-ES and discussing Jan’s values, I became aware of the financial challenge the synagogue faces in welcoming members without regard for their ability to pay. I immediately saw an opportunity to support the congregation in Jan’s name. At this moment, as we face alarming levels of antisemitism, it’s important for Jews to embrace their Judaism and be part of a community, especially one as warm and inclusive as FVJC. I believe that’s how we get through this difficult time and I know that Jan would have wanted to help make membership possible for everyone.

FVJC-ES has always welcomed members without regard for their ability to pay. Each year, FVJC covers approximately $70,000 in abated dues. Some members cannot pay any dues at all and others require smaller abatements, but Jan’s fund will make it easier for FVJG-ES to continue to welcome everyone into the community.

The Jan L. Ruderman Membership Support Fund has been established at the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford as an endowment fund. A percentage of the income from the fund will be directed to FVJC-Emek Shalom each year to help cover abated dues. The more the fund grows, the larger the income to FVJC-ES. This fund will support the congregation in perpetuity, ensuring that the community can continue to thrive with a diverse and welcoming membership.