Jewish Community Centers across North America have a “big tent” mindset. JCCs aim to be a place where all people can feel comfortable and embraced, where there is room for everyone under the big tent. The Jewish value of kehillah | creating community is at the forefront of everything we do here at the Levite JCC.
But 2024 was not an easy year. The war in Israel and the unprecedented level of antisemitism kept our Jewish community unsettled, fearful, and confused. And the fierce political climate led to increased division.
“But the year still turned out to have been meaningful and productive despite — or perhaps in no small part because of — the situation around us,” says Executive Director Brooke Bowles.
“I have to admit that I was apprehensive about stepping into the role of board president,” says Isa Dorsky, who began her two-year term in January. But, she adds, 2024 proved to be a year where our board and staff worked together to continue The J’s momentum and growth.
“I’ve spent my entire life at The J, but never before has it been so important to me that our Jewish and non-Jewish communities come together,” Isa continues. “I believe the relationships made here at The J throughout the year — at events like the Jewish Food and Culture Fest and the J’la, plus in group fitness classes and in hallways, around the pool, and on the fitness floor — are the most effective way to address antisemitism.”
A place for everyone
Brooke notes how this year The J leaned into the idea that so many in our community are hurt and confused, and want a better future. “It seems that this approach made ‘creating community’ easier, with our board, staff, and members all demonstrating compassion toward one other.
“The J was truly a place for everyone,” she says.
With the help of our facilities committee, The J did not slow down its day-to-day operations as it spent close to $900,000 in major building projects for new roofing, continued HVAC repairs, and new indoor pool equipment.
Our newly created Office of Jewish Life prioritized the idea of “Jewish Joy” this year, most recently by hosting our second annual “Community Canvas” event and serving made-to-order omelets and latkes in the lobby. Meanwhile, our community outreach increased by welcoming children with disabilities to J Camp, hosting three sold-out performances of Annie Jr. in our inclusive theater program, enhancing the health and wellness of more than 150 veterans and adults with disabilities, and giving out more than $170,000 in need-based scholarships.
Brooke says that 2025 will focus on tikvah | hope. “Our hope is that we continue to be a place where people from all across our community can feel welcome.”
Learn more
LJCC members can expect to receive our 2024 annual report in the mail by late January and learn more about our plans for 2025 by attending our annual meeting on Thursday, January 30, 5-6:30 p.m.
