Get Involved

Tree of Life Committees

Tree of Life’s Committee structure is the basis of our organizational strength. It is often the first step on the ladder of leadership.

Be “where it’s happening!” Please review this list of Temple committees and email us with the ones on which you might like to serve. Your name will be shared with the appropriate committee chairs.

Adult Education - This committee promotes activities and programs for the Congregation and community in order ot increase knowledge of our Jewish heritage.  Get involved in the Adult Education Committee.

Caring Committee - This committee acts as caring representatives of the Congregation in reaching out to the sick, the grieving, and to other needy members of the community.  If you know of someone in our Congregation who needs help, or if you would like to volunteer on this contact the chairperson of the Caring Committee.

Finance - This committee is responsible for facilitating the orderly collection of appropriate dues from members, taking into account the needs of the Congregation and the individual circumstance of each member.  Members on this committee use the utmost discretion and confidentiality when considering the financial commitments of each member.  Get involved in the Finance Committee.

Fundraising - Members of the Fundraising Committee use their energetic talents to raise additional funds for the budgeted programs of the Congregation, as well as for a variety of special projects.  This committee has raised funds to support many improvements to our building, such as a renovation of the small Chapel and major repairs to our building's roof.  When you fundraise for the Tree of Life and ask someone to give, not only do you help further our mission and programs, but you give them an opportunity to perform a mitzvah.  Get involved in the Fundraising Committee.

House and Grounds - The House and Grounds Committee is responsible for keeping the building and property of the Congregation in good order and repair.  In collaboration with the Safety and Security Committee, this committee also maintains the security components of the building, including alarm systems, cameras, and door locks.

Among the recent efforts of this Committee are repairs to the well and irrigation system, clearing brush around the building and in the adjacent Rain Garden, repair of roof leaks and damaged ceiling tiles after a major rain storm, repairing large appliances in the kitchen, and helping prepare the school wing for the opening of the Religious School.  This committee works best when it is composed of members who have a range of skills and interests.  Get involved in the House and grounds Committee.

Marketing and Communications - The Marketing and Communications Committee is responsible for general publicity and TOL publications (i.e., our monthly newlsetter, Kol Tol) of the Congregation.  It ensures that our Congregation's programs and goals are understood, and advises the Rabbi and the TOL Board on matters of communication both with the member and the broader Columbia community.  Get involved in the Marketing and Communications Committee.

Membership - The Membership Committee is responsible for developing a program for the recruitment, orientation, activation, and retention of new members of the Tree of Life.  Get involved in the Membership Committee.

Religious School - Parents of children who attend our Religious School and other congregants with a passion for Jewish education are invited to serve on the Board of our Religious School.  This group is responsible for engaging in a variety of programs and projects for the benefit of the Religious School. Get involved in the Religious School Committee.

Ritual - The Ritual Committee works with the Rabbi in an advisory role to consider ways to enhance the rituals and observances of our Congregation.  Its goal is to assure that our Shabbat, holiday, and life cycle experiences are spiritually enriching.  This committee also coordinates participation of musicians and cantorial soloists in our services.  Get involved in the Ritual Committee.

Programming Committee - is responsible for organizing a wide range of programs for the congregation, including adult, family, and fundraising activities. The committee collaborates closely with leadership to plan various events throughout the year, with a focus on engaging both current and prospective members. Their mission is to create enriching experiences tailored to different segments of the community, ensuring that everyone feels connected and involved. Get involved in the Programming Committee.

Safety and Security - The Safety and Security Committee informs, advises, and educates the TOL Board and Congregation membership about health and safety concerns, issues, and threats.  It coordinates with TOL organizations, committees, and events to ensure the safety of our members and guests by reducing the risks of unsafe conditions and situations.  This committee also communicates availability of safety-related training to our congregants, many that are offered by the South Carolina Security Community Network, and ensures that our members receive appropriate training. 
Get involved in the Safety and Security Committee.

Social Action - The Social Justice Action Committee (SJAC) is committed to building bridges with the TOL congregation and the broader community by valuing, supporting, and creating common cause through education, outreach, and advocacy. If you are interested in joining our Congregation’s efforts to improve the lives of others in our broader Columbia community, consider becoming a member of our Social Justice Action Committee.