4 min read
After the member portal has been set up, the next step is to send an email announcing the synagogue’s new ShulCloud Member Portal to the community. This helps generate excitement, encourages engagement, and ensures members know how to access and use the new features.
Whether unveiling a brand-new ShulCloud Member Portal, website, or both, this announcement encourages the congregation to feel connected, informed, and empowered to take control of their synagogue experience.
Remember to Share the Good News!
- Post to Facebook, Instagram, any other social media platforms or in newsletters.
- Mention it in your next Shabbat bulletin or email blast.
- Create a link to the Member Portal in your email signature.
Create Announcement Email
ShulCloud offers multiple tools for sending bulk emails to the shul community. Here's how to get started in each of the ShulCloud email platforms:
Email Marketing:
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Email Marketing: Create a New Email (How To):
Be sure to utilize ShulCloud's Email Marketings Login option. -
Create and Manage Groups (How to & Reference):
Create groups for members only.
MailBuilder:
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Creating Emails with the MailBuilder:
Be sure to review 'Login Links' section in the MailBuilder article to learn how create a first-time login link for members.
Legacy Mail:
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Legacy Mail: Email - Rich Text:
Be sure to review how to create the login link for Rich Text article to learn how to create a first-time login link for members - Login Link - Rich Text
HELPFUL TIP: The sample email below can be copied and pasted into any ShulCloud email platform. Remember to customize the email message to match each synagogue’s unique branding, tone, and functionality.
Sample: Member Portal Announcement Email
Subject: Our New Member Portal is Here!
Hi [First Name],
We’re excited to introduce our brand-new website—along with a secure Member Portal that makes it easier than ever to stay connected with [Synagogue Name]! Check it out here: [Link Your Website URL].
Access Our New Member Portal powered by ShulCloud, members can now do the following:
✔️ Confirm and update household information.
✔️ Update family yahrzeits.
✔️ Register for events and programs.
✔️ Make donations, dues payments, and view payment history.
✔️ Enroll in Religious School (if applicable).
✔️ Access the member directory (if applicable).
✔️ Manage your account—all in one place.
Login for the first time and to set password:
1. Visit: [Login URL].
2. The email address associated with the member account is the login for the member portal.
3. Set 12-character secure password to login to the member portal.
Once you're in:
4. Review and update your profile info.
5. Make any needed payments or donations here: [Payment Link].
Explore our portal and try out its features! Need help? Reach out anytime at [Your Office Email].
We hope you enjoy this new way to connect with [Synagogue Name]!
Warmly,
[Your Name or Office Name]
Important Tips for a Successful Launch
- Take screenshots of the new member portal - as a member would see it. Include a short description explaining the purpose of each tile. Refer to: Member Portal Walk Thru (Reference).
- Organize a test group - include other staff members or board members to send out the email announcement to. Have them report back if anything needs improvement, before sending out the official announcement email to the entire congregation.
If staff are part of the test group:
- Create a test account with NO admin permissions.
- Ensure the testers use a different email address from their main admin account email.
- Ensure testers have a specific member account type assigned to their account.
- Have test group simulate the member experience from reading the announcement email, logging in for the first time, navigating the member portal and/or website
- Preview your message in both desktop and mobile view.
- Plan a follow-up email 3–7 days later.
Related Resources
- Member Portal Set Up (How To)
- Member Portal Walk Thru (Reference)
- Adding Accounts
- Create New Account Types