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Our values
TEKVA's approach is rooted in ancient wisdom about what it means to truly help another person. Not charity. Justice. Not handouts. Partnerships. Not programs. Infrastructure for human dignity.
Rambam's ladder
Maimonides (Rambam) codified eight levels of tzedakah over 800 years ago. The highest level isn't about giving more money—it's about giving a person the means to never need help again.
"Give unwillingly"
Traditional charity asks for money but treats giving as obligation, not opportunity.
"Give less than you should, but graciously"
Well-meaning but under-resourced programs that can't match the scale of need.
"Give after being asked"
Reactive welfare systems that wait for crisis before responding.
"Give before being asked"
Early intervention—reaching people before they hit rock bottom.
"Recipient knows the giver, but giver doesn't know the recipient"
Funders invest in infrastructure, not individual cases. Dignity preserved.
"Giver knows the recipient, but recipient doesn't know the giver"
Anonymous support that removes the power imbalance of traditional charity.
"Neither party knows the other"
Systemic support through pooled funds and community infrastructure.
"Help the person become self-sufficient"
The highest level: a partnership, a job, an investment in their capacity. This is TEKVA's mission — practical support that builds independence, not dependence.
Rambam, Mishneh TorahThe highest degree of charity is to help a person help themselves—through a gift, a loan, a partnership, or finding them employment.
Living principles
These values are rooted in Jewish tradition but serve everyone. TEKVA supports all Australians regardless of faith, background, or community.
The Hebrew word tzedakah doesn't mean charity. It means justice, righteousness. It's not about generosity. It's about obligation. Supporting people in crisis isn't optional kindness. It's what a just society requires.
Following the Torah's prohibition on interest, TEKVA never charges interest on any support. Funding is an investment in the person's success, not a debt that compounds their hardship.
Every person is created in the image of God, with inherent dignity, capability, and worth. Our service design starts from this premise. We never build systems that diminish, patronise, or control.
Repairing the world isn't abstract philosophy. It's operational practice. Every participant stabilised, every person who contributes back to help the next: this is tikkun olam in action.
Whether you need support or want to provide it, there's a place for you.