From Our CEO: New beginnings this fall

Today marks the last day of camp for the summer. Though this year was certainly different than past summers, we are proud that we were able to successfully serve hundreds of kids in a safe environment. Getting to see our campers reconnecting with friends, taking part in activities, and having fun was an important reminder of why we do what we do at the JCC.

While we are all sad to see summer go, we know new beginnings lie ahead this fall. As things begin to reopen, we know we will have to navigate changing regulations, but it will be worth it in order to bring as many of our programs back as possible.

One of the things I am most excited about is the new school year starting. In addition to welcoming back our Early Childhood Education and First Foot Forward students, we will also be hosting students through the City’s Learning Bridges program. The program will allow us to serve students in the Department of Education’s blended learning model on days they are out of school. Our staff will facilitate remote learning as well as lead group activities, including sports and music. We are looking forward to this program starting and getting to work with some new and familiar faces throughout the school year.

As you may have heard, plans are also in the works to reopen our fitness center. We continue to work alongside City and State officials to make this happen sometime this fall. Other programs, like our cultural arts lectures, music lessons, and senior programs, will continue to operate virtually to ensure that as many people in our community as possible can access JCC programming.

On behalf of our board and staff, we are grateful for your patience as we continue to move forward. I am incredibly hopeful that this fall will bring new opportunities for the JCC and all of our members and participants.

​-Orit Lender

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