A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
From the Director Dear JCC Family and Friends, It is an outstanding privilege to be a part of the JCC of Greater New Haven as it marks its centennial. Witnessing the behind the scenes planning for a year of celebration, and rewinding all that has transpired over the past century, has been truly awe-inspiring. From humble beginnings in New Haven in 1912 to our current facility in Woodbridge, the size, scope and impact of the JCC has grown immensely. As you will read throughout this commemorative booklet there is much to celebrate and acknowledge. Excitement is high and observances are planned all year long. We warmly invite you to join us for all the fun and revelry. Two of the celebrations you may want to note on your calendar are our spring and fall events:
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Spring 2012 Basketball Brunch
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Fall 2012 100 year Birthday Bash
We are proud of our accomplishments and what the JCC means to Greater New Haven. However we would be remiss if we did not recognize first and foremost the reason for our progress and growing significance to the community we serve. So to our members, volunteers, sponsors and donors we say please take a well deserved bow. You, our faithful family, are the reason we have reached this milestone. It is sure to be an exhilarating and gratifying year. As the festivities wind down however, and we pivot to set our sights on the century ahead, we look forward to building on our successful record with the principles of Judaism, and you, as our foundation. Sincerely
Shelley Gans 2
Celebrating 100 Years of Service
A Place to Blossom-A Welcome for All The Jewish Community Center of Greater New Haven provides a friendly atmosphere for health, thought, learning and values. Our mission is to facilitate total wellness through programs that stimulate mind, body and spirit. Young and old, individuals and families, Jews and non-Jews, are all greeted with a warm welcome at the JCC.
Tradition, Family and Community
We make a tangible link with Judaism available to every Jewish individual but also provide a common meeting ground for all segments of society. Our goal is to strengthen family ties and increase understanding of our role in making a positive contribution to the community.
Proud of Our Past-Poised for Our Future
Throughout our rich history there have been physical moves, expansion of facilities and services and widening of our reach and impact. Most important however, there have been stories—Individual stories of personal growth and advancement-Family stories of teaming up to achieve a common goal-and heartwarming Stories of a community banding together in a time of need—it is these moments we cherish most.
We envision more stories of personal achievement, family celebrations and community rapport as we advance through our second 100 years. We thank you in advance for helping make them happen. 3
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
Fitness & Health
…building bodies inside and out With a 106,000 square foot facility that includes a state of the art fitness center, the latest equipment, classes, professional trainers, personal fitness regimens and nutrition programs; the JCC is an oasis of support for physical well being. Our goal is to provide the best environment and program options to help our members meet their fitness goals.
A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
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The Largest Loser is a Family of Winners rothers Owen and Larry and wives Bonnie and Jen were chosen after a spring 2011 casting call for JCC’s Largest Loser. They were urged to try out by father Stanley, a long time JCC member, concerned about their health and weight. After some debate, the group decided dad was right and action had to be taken— though it took a bit more goading from son Ben for Owen to yield. Now, a combined 286 lbs. later, the Steins wonder how they ever lived without their new found regimen of good nutrition and exercise. But the smaller waistlines are only part of the story. The ability to walk, breathe easier, travel and participate more freely in other simple pleasures, often taken for granted, was life changing. When you add the new sense of teamwork, camaraderie and support that caught fire with three generations of Steins, you can see why these Largest Losers are the program’s biggest fans.
“The goal was to just lose weight-but our lives and family were transformed”
-The Stein Family
1912
founded in New Haven
Young Men’s Hebrew Association
TIMELINE
1918
YMHA purchases land on Crown Street 5
1921
YWHA joins with YMHA
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
Education
‌stimulating the mind from childhood to maturity From comprehensive programs to enhance a child’s development during their most formative years, to enrichment classes for youth and adults, the JCC offers a rich and diverse curriculum. Our distinguished instructors and counselors are experts in their field and dedicated to providing an enjoyable, fulfilling experience. At the JCC, you are never too young or old to learn.
A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
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Life Lessons t the age of 3, Adam Weber began participating in JCC Educational Programs. Now 16, his thirteen year journey has taken him from Pre-School programs to Summer Camps, where he has been both a camper and counselor, to New Haven MAKOM Jewish High School,
where he plays in the band, community service projects and on field trips related to Jewish heritage and culture. In 2012 Adam will travel to Poland and Israel as part of the International March of the Living, a program coordinated locally through MAKOM. A resident of Milford, Adam believes time spent at the JCC in Woodbridge exposed him to a variety of experiences that brought greater knowledge of his heritage, groomed communication skills and helped polish his musical talent.
“Because of the JCC I now have more awareness of my culture and feel more connected to my Jewish roots� - Adam Weber
1938
YMHA, YWHA, Hebrew Institute merge - New Haven JCC relocated to Dwight Street
TIMELINE
1945
Capital campaign for new facility begins 7
1952
Groundbreaking for Chapel Street location
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
Children
... a better start today for a brighter tomorrow Responsibility to our children and young adults is an essential principle of the JCC’s province. We are diligent in our efforts to provide programs and services that help them grow intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.
A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Discovery, Imagination and Companionship
J
CC programs for children often seem to have the most spirited fan base. Mother of four, Dena Schulman Green, is among the vocal supporters. Having watched Eve age 9, twins Benjamin and Mia age 6, and Lily age 4, all participate in the Yeladim Early Learning Center curriculum is the reason why. For example Eve, involved since infancy, reached developmental milestones like walking at an accelerated pace thanks to the group environment. Most important to Dena, however, was that every stage Yeladim immersed her children in the Jewish culture, complementing their home environment. Seeing her most precious gifts explore, learn and have their first experiences and interaction with people outside the family is an experience mom will never forget.
“I know my children are in a safe, caring, nurturing environment at the JCC�
-Dena Schulman Green
1954
New Jewish Community Center dedicated on Chapel Street
TIMELINE
1976
JCC Wins National Basketball Tournament 9
1981
Jewish Welfare Board recommends relocating
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
Arts & Culture
‌ dreams pursued and creativity nourished Some people take advantage of the diverse Arts & Culture opportunities available at JCC out of simple curiosity, or for a nice way to spend some time. For others it may be an inner voice calling them to pursue a lifelong interest, or flex their creative muscles. Whatever the motivation, the JCC can satisfy the urge to learn and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
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Keeping it in Perspective ward winning author, journalist and well known speaker with numerous television appearances, Marc Wortman has been a member of the JCC of Greater New Haven for over 20 years. Now also serving in his fifth year on the board, Marc has witnessed the JCC evolve during his tenure and couldn’t be happier with the results. In his opinion the JCC just keeps getting better and better. A basketball enthusiast, he has also participated in softball and numerous exercise classes. To Marc, leagues at the JCC are among the most fun and rewarding around, as are the many Arts and Culture programs. As he puts it, “You can always find an interesting conversation because our members are diverse, strong and informed.” That observation led Marc to join with other members to develop the popular JCC Perspectives series, bringing in noted speakers and performers from around the world.
“The JCC is a place for a lifetime of learning, play and sharing” -Marc Wortman
1985
of JCC West Rock Facility
JCC leases and begins renovation
TIMELINE
1986
Transition satellite locations headquartered at Whalley Avenue 11
1987
Diamond Jubilee celebration of 75 years
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF GREATER NEW HAVEN
Community
…a place for recreation, joy and comfort To us it doesn’t matter what your relationship with the JCC might be. We only have one classification for everyone—and that is family. By being part of the fabric of the greater New Haven community, we hope it is evident that we are here whenever the need arises, or for whatever it might be. In times of triumph or tragedy, our doors are always open.
A CENTURY OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
A Safe Haven from the Storm
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ne of the most devastating storms to ever hit the Northeast, Hurricane Irene caused widespread destruction, monetary losses and left thousands in Connecticut without power for over a week. Damage to homes, communications and food problems made the situation extremely dire. For many, it seemed there was nowhere to turn. The JCC of Greater New Haven, thankfully, was one shining beacon of hope and refuge for its neighbors until the State returned to normal and people could return home. Scott Cohen, COO of The Jewish Federation, remembers it all too well. “I had never seen Connecticut hit so hard and so many people in such a state of despair.” Since the Woodbridge facility held up fine during Irene’s relentless onslaught and, the power was on, the JCC opened its doors to help by providing warm showers, power to charge cell phones and some friendly company.
“They were our neighbors that needed help—we were happy we could offer people a place of safety and comfort”
1991
Groundbreaking for JCC Woodbridge facility
- Scott Cohen
TIMELINE
1993
New facility on Amity Road, Woodbridge dedicated 13
2012
100 Year Centennial Celebration
A Road Well Traveled One hundred years, thousands of challenges, achievements and success stories. It is a record that speaks of our passion, commitment and value to the greater New Haven community.
…and the Journey Continues
We recognize however that the JCC legacy speaks even louder about our commitment to the future. A commitment that drives us every day to keep discovering the more we can do, the next life we can change for the better and the team that will get us there. To ensure the future of the JCC and our ability to continue to provide services and resources to the community on a long-term, sustainable basis we are seeking the support of our friends and neighbors who share our interest in seeing the JCC remain a vital and positive resource in Greater New Haven.
We thank you for your support then, now and tomorrow 14
Let the Jubilation Begin!
COMMEMORATE-PARTICIPATE- CELEBRATE
2012 CENTENNIAL EVENTS Basketball Brunch Basketball has been, and remains, an integral part of what the JCC of Greater New Haven is all about—teamwork, sportsmanship, bonding, competing and reaching for higher levels of achievement. Join us on June 10th to honor the four legendary coaches of the JCC Varsity basketball program over the past 50 years: Red Kleinberg, Jimmy Wolf, David Beckerman, and Mark Sklarz, and to recognize the 1979 JCC National Basketball Champions. Please join us for all the excitement and ceremonies this spring at the JCC Basketball Brunch. Contact: Tanya Weinberg at tanyaw@jccnh.org, or 203-387-2522 ext. 216 for more information on attending or sponsoring.
100 Year Birthday Bash You can’t have a birthday without having a birthday party. It just doesn’t seem right--especially when the celebrant is turning the impressive age of 100. We are lighting the candles on October 20th to honor our past presidents and all those who have made a difference at the JCC. Celebrate 100 years of history at the JCC, and help keep us growing strong for the next 100 years. You don’t want to miss this one! Please join us for all the excitement and ceremonies this fall at the JCC 100 Year Birthday Bash Contact: Tanya Weinberg at tanyaw@jccnh.org, or 203-387-2522, ext. 216 for more information on attending or sponsoring. 15
Individual Pursuits - Family Support - Community Service Since 1912 n
Lecture hall and classrooms
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Pool
After-school programs
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Assembly space
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Youth basketball
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Playscape
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Jewish learning
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Sports programs
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Summer day camps
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Jewish holiday celebrations
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Sports leagues
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Art exhibitions
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Enrichment programs
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Personal Training
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Lectures
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Fitness center
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Group exercise classes
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Community gatherings
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Full service spa
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Spinning速
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Music
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Basketball courts
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Swim classes
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Dance and theater
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Racquetball courts
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Swim team
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Yeladim Early Learning Center
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For more information about the JCC Centennial Visit us at jccnh.org. Or Contact: Tanya Weinberg 203-387-2522, ext. 216, tanyaw@jccnh.org.