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. Throughout the year, Philanthropic Year Patrons enjoy exclusive opportunities to learn, celebrate, connect, and experience Jewish life in extraordinary ways.
What is a Patron?
The Philanthropic Year Patron Program brings together a community of generous supporters who believe in Congregation Rodeph Shalom’s mission and future. Through your annual Patron commitment, you help sustain inspiring worship, lifelong Jewish learning, meaningful acts of caring, and vibrant community engagement.
As a Patron, you’ll also enjoy a thoughtfully curated series of exclusive experiences celebrating Jewish history, culture, music, art, and meaningful conversation. Throughout the year, these events provide opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate with fellow Patrons while strengthening the bonds that make our community so special.
All Patrons will have the opportunity to attend receptions before each program.
Register to become a Patron here.
Event Highlights
The First Salute: An Untold Story of the American Revolution
Thursday, October 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Begin the Patron year with a reception and special program. Explore The First Salute: An Untold Story of the American Revolution, a remarkable exhibition that tells the little-known story of the Jewish merchants whose support helped shape the outcome of the American Revolution. As our nation commemorates America 250, this special evening offers a fascinating look at an often-overlooked chapter of American and Jewish history. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Multifaith Clergy Voices: A Panel Moderated by CNN Anchor & Chief Political Correspondent Dana Bash
Wednesday, November 11 at 7:00 p.m. at RS
Our multifaith dialogue series culminates with an authentic conversation with Rabbi Eli Freedman, Pastor Kevin Brown, and Imam Idris Abdul Zahir. Sponsored by the Alfred & Helen O. Sellers Fund. Join for a patron reception before the program. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art Presentation & Latke Vodka Celebration
Thursday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m. at RS
Enjoy an engaging presentation by Dr. Sophie Lynford, Annette Woolard-Provine Curator of the Bancroft Pre-Raphaelite Collection at the Delaware Art Museum, featuring a preview of the museum’s upcoming exhibition, Simeon Solomon: Jewish and Queer in Victorian London. The evening continues with our signature Latke Vodka Celebration featuring exceptional cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, music, festive holiday spirit, and a live auction. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Delaware Art Museum Experience | Date TBD
Continue the journey with a visit to the Delaware Art Museum to experience Simeon Solomon: Jewish and Queer in Victorian London. Building on Dr. Sophie Lynford’s December presentation, this special outing offers the opportunity to experience the exhibition firsthand. Additional details, including transportation and programming, will be shared. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
Spring Sips & Sounds | Date TBD
Celebrate another remarkable Patron year with an elegant evening featuring handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, a curated whiskey tasting led by Executive Director Josh Laster, chef-inspired small bites, live music, and wonderful conversation. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate our Patron community and the impact of your generosity throughout the year. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
The Afro-Semitic Experience | Date TBD
An inspiring performance celebrating Jewish and American musical traditions born out of the Black community, demonstrating how music builds bridges between people and communities. A Patron reception will be held before the program. Patrons: RSVP to Neil Wise at nwise@rodephshalom.org or 267-930-7291.
What are the Patron benefits?
- Six tickets to all Patron experiences
- Invitations to all VIP receptions
- Recognition on the website, RS Bulletin, and event materials
- Patron communications throughout the year
- Exclusive Visionary Experience
- Six tickets to all Patron experiences
- Invitations to all VIP receptions
- Recognition on the website, RS Bulletin, and event materials
- Patron communications throughout the year
- Four tickets to all Patron experiences
- Invitations to all VIP receptions
- Recognition on the website, RS Bulletin, and event materials
- Patron communications throughout the year
- Two tickets to all Patron experiences
- Invitations to all VIP receptions
- Recognition on the website, RS Bulletin, and event materials
- Patron communications throughout the year
- Two tickets to four Patron experiences
- Invitation to VIP Receptions when attending Patron Events
- Recognition on the website, RS Bulletin, and event materials
- Patron communications throughout the year
- Two tickets to two Patron experiences
- Recognition on the website and RS Bulletin
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.
