On August 27, the 5th annual J’la Gala will bring supporters and community members together for an evening of philanthropy, fine dining, and lively auctions.
Centered on this year’s theme, Lighting the Way, the J’la will highlight the many ways in which the state’s only Jewish Community Center serves as a beacon of connection, programming, and support for the community. Proceeds directly fund the LJCC Scholarship Fund — eliminating financial barriers so local families can participate in summer camp, preschool, youth sports, and wellness programming.
Over the past four years, ticket holders and donors have helped raise more than $570,000. Demand for assistance remains high: during just the first half of this year, the Levite JCC has already invested more than $150,000 in scholarships and discounts.
Auction action
A centerpiece of the evening will be a live auction led by guest-favorite auctioneer Christie King, who returns to the J’la stage to run bidding on a selection of high-end items and exclusive travel packages. Highlights include a luxury vacation for four to Sierra de Grata, Spain.
In addition to the live auction, guests and members of the wider community will have the opportunity to bid on a variety of silent auction packages, including:
- Themed classroom parties for young learners at the Cohn Early Childhood Learning Center.
- Family-friendly outings plus tickets to concerts and local entertainment events.
- A curated collection of date-night packages featuring dining and cultural experiences.
Attendees will enjoy a three-course gourmet kosher dinner created by acclaimed Chef Maureen Holt. The menu will feature braised beef short ribs served alongside smashed potatoes and fresh green beans.
The J’la will take place on site in the LJCC Pizitz Auditorium. For ticket information or to make a donation to the scholarship fund, visit our event page.