Annual Philanthropic Year
What is the Philanthropic Year?
Each year, RS offers an annual series of events and programs designed to help support our congregation. This year, our Philanthropic events invite us to honor profound milestones in Jewish time — the 50th anniversary of Beth Ahavah, the 50th anniversary of the Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art, and Rabbi Jill Maderer’s 25 years of leadership. Looking ahead, we anticipate another extraordinary moment in 2028, when we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of our historic sanctuary with a special commemoration.
Together, these milestones root us in memory, connect us to the present, and propel us toward the future.
What is a Patron?
Patrons actively support the philanthropic year by making a gift to RS at one of our Patron gift contribution levels. All of our patrons receive year-long access to events, with the opportunity to attend receptions preceding each event. In addition, with permission, each of our patrons are recognized for their generous contributions in print and digital publications. Register to become a Patron here.
What are the Patron benefits?
$7,500 – Pillar
- Six tickets to each program & reception
- Preferred seating at each program
- Recognition as a Patron in RS communications
$5,000 – Foundation
- Four tickets to each program & reception
- Preferred seating at each program
- Recognition as a Patron in RS communications
$2,500 – Cornerstone
- Two tickets to each program & reception PLUS two additional tickets to one event of your choice
- Preferred seating to each program
- Recognition as a Patron in RS communications
$1,250 – Steward
- Two tickets to each event & reception
- Preferred seating to each program
- Recognition as a Patron in RS communications
How do I learn more?
For more information on becoming a patron, contact Neil Wise, Philanthropy Director at 267-930-7291 or nwise@rodephshalom.org.
Event Highlights
Beth Ahavah Reunion & Celebration
Friday, November 14
Reconnect with old friends and celebrate the vibrant legacy of Beth Ahavah. This special evening honors the people, stories, and contributions of this beloved community within Rodeph Shalom. $36/person. Register here.
Aftermath: October 7 and the New Antisemitism: Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art Exhibit
Presented in partnership with the Jewish Art Salon NYC
Thursday, November 20
6:00 p.m. Reception • 7:00 p.m. Panel Discussion
Free and open to the community
Join us for the opening reception of this powerful new exhibit exploring artistic responses to October 7 and the rise of contemporary antisemitism. Enjoy food and drink, connect in meaningful conversation, and hear directly from featured artists as they share their personal stories, inspirations, and emotions behind this very recent work. Experience their vision and see how each piece offers a unique perspective on the theme and its ongoing resonance.
Please register here by November 13. Questions? Contact Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Latke Vodka Celebration & Curatorial Discussion
Thursday, December 11
6:00 p.m. Panel Discussion • 7:00 p.m. Latke Vodka Reception
Celebrate the season and the miracle of Hanukkah at our festive Latke Vodka reception! The evening begins with a curatorial discussion featuring Jewish Art Salon member-artists, reflecting on the creation of the exhibit Aftermath: October 7 and the New Antisemitism and the experience of shaping this work as events unfolded in Israel over the past two years. Then, join old friends and meet new ones for a lively reception with live music, fresh latkes, and delicious cuisine – plus a new highlight this year: The Maccabee Martini & Mocktail Bar. Raise your glass and share in the best l’chaim in town!
Open to the community • $95/person — register here. Reservations required by December 4. Philanthropic Year Patrons receive complimentary admission. Patrons, please register by contacting Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Spring Landmark Celebration
In Spring 2026, we will come together for a special celebration that reflects our congregation’s enduring spirit, our deep relationships, and our shared journey through Jewish time, while also honoring Rabbi Maderer’s 25th anniversary of leadership — a milestone woven into the fabric of our collective story.
Shabbat Service & Dinner: Friday, April 24: Reflections, music, and shared stories, with special guest, Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), followed by a Shabbat dinner.
An Evening of Celebration: Saturday, April 25: Patron reception, Havdalah, a special musical component, and dessert reception.
