Two years with no raise . . .

It's budget season and once again many synagogues (and other non-profit organizations) are facing income projections lower than they had hoped for when they were doing last year's budget. Many of you took real and extensive measures to trim our budgets last year. The results, in many instances, was a lean budget with almost no fat left. Now in the Spring of 2010, many synagogues are engaged in putting together a 2010-2011 budget that has not significantly eased since last spring.
Last year many synagogues gave no raises to non-contract staff and even asked contractual staff to forego increases they were contractually entitled to. This year many are contemplating a similar situation for non-contract staff again. While every employee should be grateful to have a job in this economy, we must also keep in mind that staff morale is a real issue that effects productivity.
If you cannot give money this year. Consider giving things that cost the synagogue little or nothing to give. For instance, perhaps you could offer an additional week of vacation in lieu of an increase. You could also offer free high holiday tickets, synagogue membership, and building usage for little or no impact on your bottom line.
Afterall, expenses have gone up for your staff. They are paying more for health insurance, property taxes and grocery bills. As their incomes have stagnated their ability to afford what they need has narrowed. I encourage you to get creative so your staff will know that they are valued by your community even when you cannot show them in the form of money.
B'shalom, Lisa