Direct Billing:
Presenting the Idea

Who should be there?

• Since Direct Billing is a decision that affects the entire synagogue in many different venues, there should be a variety of people at the Direct Billing presentation. Some people that should be present at the presentation include the Chapter Advisors and Youth Directors, the Chapter President, Youth Commission chairpeople, the synagogue Executive Board, bookkeepers, Rabbis, and anyone else who would be part of your decision.

Know your stuff!

• The success of Direct Billing is largely dependent upon the presentation. It is very important to read through all the materials and understand Direct Billing before presenting. As the presenter, you are the expert on Direct Billing. You should be able to answer any question about Direct Billing and how it would work for your synagogue specifically. Try a practice run through of the presentation to make sure you are prepared.

What should you say?

• Start with the very beginning. Even if the idea of Direct Billing has come up within the synagogue previously, you should thoroughly explain exactly what Direct Billing is and its purpose. Also describe the benefits of Direct Billing specifically for your synagogue. In your presentation, explain why you believe in the concept of Direct Billing, and how this would greatly benefit your chapter. Outline all the benefits of Direct Billing. Handouts outlining Direct Billing are great to pass out, not only because visuals are great, but because this gives the presentees something concrete to hang on to and look at, and to go home and think about more.

What if they say no?

• If they say no, find out why. Is it too late in the year to change over the accounting software? Does someone on the Board of Directors strongly oppose this because they don't like USY? Perhaps this year won't work for Direct Billing. Try and look for a compromise. Try taking steps in the right direction. Perhaps the first step in getting Direct Billing is inserting a flyer with the membership dues invoice about joining USY and Kadima. Another option is a variation on Direct Billing by having check boxes on the synagogue membership bill for USY and Kadima. If parents check off the boxes for USY and Kadima, it means that they have included their USY and/or Kadima dues with their payment. Work with the adults in the synagogue to find a compromise that will work for everyone.