Our Community Story

For decades, Manhattan Jewish Congregation (MJC) has been the spiritual home for the Jewish community across north central Kansas. As a completely volunteer-led organization without clergy or paid staff, we embody the true meaning of a covenantal community: Judaism thrives here because our members make it happen.

From Salina to Wamego, including Kansas State University and Fort Riley, our congregation serves residents, students, soldiers, and families throughout the region. Our impact extends beyond our walls:

• 180 families receive our weekly newsletter, with 20 new additions just this past year

• 30 dues-paying members (including 7 new members this year) and many more served

• A vibrant calendar including Shabbat services, family programs, festival celebrations, and cultural events

• Community engagement through interfaith partnerships, educational outreach, and social action

A Building That Serves Our Mission

For over fifty years, our building has been our congregation's home—a place where we gather to pray, celebrate, learn, and connect. We're fortunate to own it outright, but after a half-century of faithful service, our beloved home needs critical improvements to continue serving our community for generations to come.

Why These Improvements Matter

1. Creating an Accessible Space for All

• Our current bathrooms are not fully accessible

• These renovations will ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can fully participate in our community

2. Building a Functional Kitchen for Community Gathering

• Our current kitchen allows only two people to work simultaneously

• Limited storage forces us to use our coat closet for kitchen supplies

• A functional kitchen will enable:

  • Easier preparation for our annual Passover Seder and other celebrations

  • Community cooking classes and shared meal preparation

  • Proper storage and dishwashing facilities for all our events

3. Enhancing Our Outdoor Space

• A permanent pergola will provide structure for our annual Sukkah

• The beautiful outdoor area will become usable year-round

• Improved access from the parking lot will enhance both security and convenience

A Sound Investment in Our Future

Unlike previous proposed building projects, these improvements:

• Address essential needs regardless of our population size

• Provide immediate benefits while serving our community for decades

• Maintain the architectural integrity and modest beauty of our original building

• Enable us to continue our tradition of affordable membership for all

• Architectural diagram depicting our future site plan

The Financial Picture

Total Project Cost: $308,000

We've already secured:

• $105,000 from our building account, raised for a previous classroom expansion project that was cancelled

• $113,000 in pledges from generous donors

Our Goal: Raise the remaining $90,000

Any additional funds raised will serve as a contingency and strengthen our endowment to support ongoing activities.

Join Us in Building Our Future

The strength of Manhattan Jewish Congregation has always been our members—people who understand that Judaism thrives when we work together to make it happen. Today, we invite you to make an investment in our community's future.

Your contribution ensures that MJC will continue to be a vibrant Jewish home in north central Kansas for decades to come—a place where we can gather to celebrate our traditions, educate our children, support each other, and repair the world.

Ways to Contribute:

• One-time gifts

• Multi-year pledges

• Gifts of appreciated securities

• Legacy gifts

• Naming opportunities available

For more information or to discuss your gift, please email manhattanjc@gmail.com

Manhattan Jewish Congregation is a 501(c)(3) organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

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