MCA celebrates 10 years

By Michael Sobol, MCA President

On Nov. 15, 2012, a group of men gathered at the Jewish Federation offices of to discuss the formation of a men’s group like that of the WCA. Items on the agenda that day included: Purpose/Structure/ Content; name ofgroup; ideas, suggestions; questionnaires; and signup sheets.

An opening luncheon was scheduled for Dec. 17, 2012 at Brio at Waterside Shops. This luncheon was limited to the first 60 men who RSVP’d. (See accompanying announcement.)

Among the names that were discussed for the group were NAPLES “MEL” (Men Enjoying Leisure), “GEL” (Gentlemen Enjoying Leisure) and “MCA” (Men’s Cultural Alliance). To stay consistent within the Federation, the name Men’s Cultural Alliance was selected. The original group included Steve Brazina, Les Nizin, Steve Weiss, Dick Janger, Mitch Dannenberg, Dan Kamm, Meir Kehila, Dick Lechtner and me.

From an initial base of 83 members, over 1,100 men have joined MCA during the past 10 years. Today, our membership hovers right around 700.

MCA programming has grown as well. Today, MCA offers dozens of programs including eight discussion groups, 10 sporting groups, 20 tours and trips, six luncheons, weekly breakfasts, dinearounds, volunteer opportunities, a highly regarded documentary film program, and more. We have become the premier men’s organization in the Greater Naples area.

As we begin our 11th season, MCA continues to look at new ways we can provide opportunities for the men of the Jewish community of Greater Naples. New ideas and new volunteers are always welcome. Contact me at president@ MCANaples.org if you would like to get involved.

Here’s to the next 10 years!