A Better Way than Kollel Checks

After devoting many posts to the problems with the current system of kollel checks, its time to come up with some suggestions. Many would just say, “Let’s abolish the whole check in its entirety.” However, its usually a far better suggestion to come up with creative new ways of doing things instead of just abolishing them outright.

The problems with kollel checks is that there is no accountability, no standards, and they are just simply not efficient.

Here is a suggestion that is exclusive to the Lakewood kollel. The current system of learning in Bais Medrash Govoha is known as the “chaburah” system. For those unfamiliar with the term, it means that the learning is done in groups of men learning the same topic, and the chaburah is headed by someone who brought the group together initially, establishes the curriculum, and sets the overall tone for the group. The leader, referred to as the “Rosh Chaburah” is not paid extra for his duties, all he gets is a regular kollel check (if that).

Since the Rosh Chaburah is in effect running his own “mini-yeshiva” it would make sense for him to receive a mini salary in return for his efforts. The amount of compensation should be dependent on a number of criteria, each which would serve to enhance the status and image of both the chaburah and the yeshiva as a whole. He could be compensated based on a number of varying factors, such as: chaburah longevity, number of members, its desirability, the frequency of shiurim from within the chaburah, satisfaction of its members, and its successful completion of set milestones – such as entire mesechtos or topics.

In effect, the new kollel check would serve a dual purpose – it will drive those with leadership qualities to the top, and those without it out the door. It would create mini yeshivas within the greater Lakewood yeshiva – which is what the Chaburah system is in effect. A portion of the Rosh Chaburah’s responsibility could involve fund raising for the members of his chaburah, which would ensure that his chaburah would not be overrun by thrill seekers and those seeking just to get a good name for themselves.

Take the current money that is being spent on the kollel budget, cut it down to 1/5th, and use that to fund salaries for the Roshei Chaburah. These Roshei Chaburah would in turn go out and independently raise funds to pay the members of their “mini-yeshiva”, branding it as their own yeshiva and not just as generic “Lakewood”.

This would free up so much money that is needed to be raised every year for the yeshiva, while at the same time prepare the future leaders of the next generation for their eventual roles. It’s a win win for everyone – except for those who rely on the $300 a month they automatically get just for breathing, without any accountability or responsibility.

Which way do you prefer? Leave your comments below – make your voice heard!

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Filed Under: Kollel Finances

Tags: kollel check • Lakewood yeshiva