Since opening its’ doors in 1914, the Jewish Community Center (JCC) has always stood by its creed of creating an environment to build and strengthen the quality of life in Indianapolis.
The organization was started to provide recreational, social and educational services to members of the community and inspire people to live healthier, more active lives.
“JCC is open to all ages, genders, and races,” said Ira Jaffee, executive director of JCC of Indianapolis.
Even though JCC doesn’t place intensity on the Jewish community, the organization says they still want community members to have an appreciation of Jewish thoughts and values. Jaffee said he wants non-Jewish members of JCC to have a connection and to experience the Jewish culture and its activities such as special events, and food preparation through informal classes.
Events that are enjoyed by JCC members and the Jewish community includes a yearly indoor triathlon, an Israeli film series, and the newly designed event, “Jewish Mission to Cuba” where members will get the chance to go to Cuba. In addition, JCC members can learn about the different foods offered in the Jewish culture including bread making, stuffed derma, goulash and kasha.
JCC recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, and members were able to help honor the center by participating in small activities.
“One of the highlights of the year was a big celebration we had,” said Jaffee. “There was a lot of music, dances and performances to help celebrate, and Mayor Ballard made a dedication to the center.”
Alongside various celebrations, JCC also welcomes the community to take part in its camps. Programs are open to all ethnicities and religions, as 50 percent of its membership is non-Jewish.
Programs offered include activities for early childhood, youth and senior citizens. The center also offers a school-aged after school program. Adults have a wide-range of programs to choose from such as fundamentals of photography, silver jewelry making, an actor’s workshop and Spanish classes.
“We also have a summer day camp for kids two-years-old all the way up to middle school aged children,” said Jaffee. “We average about 300 to 350 kids per week.”
Youth can also choose from a list to determine which camp they are interested in participating in. According to Jaffee, the list includes sports, traditional and diverse visual arts, and a special needs camp.
Jaffee insists membership is always open, and at anytime people can become members. He also said no one is denied membership due to financial status.
“If people can’t afford our programs, we offer financial aid by adjusting their fee schedule so that it will work within their budget,” said Jaffee.
For more information about JCC camps and membership, call Susan Gaboditch at (317) 251-9467 or visit www.jccindy.org.
