Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2010 INNOVATION & EXEMPLARY AWARDS
BENCHMARKING AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Member and User Engagement – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Platinum Service Standards: ongoing professional development
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
The Platinum Service Standards is an internal and external customer service initiative. Specific staff
behaviors to support these standards and encourage increasing the key benchmarking metric of
informal staff conversations were presented at staff meetings. Staff techniques for engaging members
include; the 24 hour rule established requiring all staff to respond to all emails and phone messages
within 24 hours; 5/10 rule established indicating all staff are to look up when walking through halls and
make eye contact with anyone within 10 feet and verbally greet anyone within 5 feet. Staff is more
conscious of need to respond timely to and engage members in the halls and more aware of when other
staff is exhibiting these positive behaviors by acknowledging their efforts with Kudos at every staff
meeting.
Staff Motivation
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Increased staff satisfaction
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
Using the data and feedback from benchmarking staff surveys, the executive management team
developed these concepts resulting in increased staff satisfaction. Staff communication was increased
through e‐update emails from executive director regularly sharing agency information, monthly program
happenings newsletter, and all staff meetings to discuss budget and financial issues. Recognition of staff
was increased through monthly program happenings showcase staff efforts, kudos agenda item added
to all staff meetings to encourage staff to acknowledge each other. Efforts to show staff is appreciated
were achieved through a fitness competition and management staff cooked and served staff luncheon
Strategic Decision Making – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Shabbat Opening
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Laura Lewkowict
By being open on Shabbat the MJCCA will help enhance the connections to the Jewish community and
continue the MJCCA's vital support of creating and supporting meaningful Jewish journeys. It is often
said that as much as the Jews have maintained Shabbat, it is even truer that Shabbat has maintained the
Jewish people. By expanding its hours of operation, the MJCCA will be helping sustain and strengthen
the Atlanta Jewish community in conjunction with the sustaining nature of Shabbat itself.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Member and User Engagement – Gold Star
JCC of Houston, Houston, TX
Benchmarking Task Force
President: Dan Steiner
Executive Vice President: Jerry Wische
Chair: Joel Dinkin
To increase member retention, the JCC developed an e‐communication plan for members with targeted
messages sent at key times though out the year. This process would encourage their involvement at the
JCC and increase the likelihood that they will renew their JCC membership.
Strategic Decision Making – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore ‐ Park Heights Branch, Baltimore, MD
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Buddy Sapolksy
Over an extended period of time, the Baltimore Jewish Community and the JCC have been wrestling
with opening our Owings Mills facility on Saturday. In last year's benchmarking unsolicited comments,
there were 115 references to unhappiness about the facility not being open. These comments helped
serve as an impetus to regalvanize a process that was last looked at 12 years ago. We had never asked
this question in any of our previous customer surveys and these unsolicited remarks were critical with
leadership from the JCC and the Federation to ultimately achieve the goal of opening one of our two
buildings on Shabbat.
FINANCIAL RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
INNOVATION AWARDS
Special events – Gold Star
Addison‐Penzak JCC of Silicon Valley, Los Gatos, CA
Dancing With the Stars ‐ Honoring JCC Past Presidents
President: Virginia Hess
Executive Director: Hal Bordy
Chair: Hal Bordy
Dancing with the Stars was a wonderful opportunity to bring past presidents back into the fold of the
JCC while utilizing a current television and activity fad ‐ ballroom dancing, capitalizing on it and
extending its interest within the JCC's program base. The event with over 300 in attendance was
highlighted by a dance competition between seven past presidents who trained for three months with
professional dance partners for the competition. It not only involved them, but their family and friends
who could vote on line and buy votes at the event. Combined with the silent and live auctions, the event
raised more than the $100,000 that it was budgeted and became the talk of the town.
Special events – Gold Star
JCC of Metropolitan Detroit, West Bloomfield, MI
Super Raffle
President: Mark Davidoff
Executive Director: Mark Lit
Chair: Suzanne Lichtman
For the first time ever, the Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit formed a partnership with
three other local Jewish not‐for‐profit agencies to raise funds for programs serving individuals with
developmental disabilities. Dubbed Super Raffle, the venture provided ticket purchasers with the
opportunity to win one of four fabulous prize packages while supporting the four agencies. Additionally,
the project brought together the executive and development staffs from the agencies, engendered
friendly competition between boards of directors and generated positive press in local Jewish and
general media.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Annual Campaign – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
Chai Maintenance
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Laura Adler
The triple‐entendre usage of the words "Chai Maintenance" drove support for the JCC of Northern
Virginia's building that, after 18 years of life, is in need of repair and replacement of many capital items.
The tri‐fold brochure incorporated the use of a magnifying glass to point to areas and of the Center that
need maintenance with the sub‐heading, "When's the last time you looked closely at the JCCNV?" To
make the process of giving easier, a remittance envelope was inserted into the tabbed brochure, online
donations were also encouraged. To encourage bigger giving, donors could specify where to allocate the
funds.
Annual Campaign – Gold Star
Mandell Jewish Community Center, West Hartford, CT
2,4,6,8 Annual Campaign
President: Brian Newman
Executive Director: David Jacobs
Chair: David Jacobs
In a difficult economy with funding sources like the Jewish Federation and United Way giving less to the
JCC, the Mandell JCC developed a campaign that would be presented to the members of the JCC. The
campaign was implemented in a way to make giving easy and possible for all members by asking them
to contribute a small amount each month in addition to their monthly dues. In addition, this campaign
changes the conversation that we have with members who have not previously been donors. This new
donor base has strengthened our potential for future campaigns.
Development of a written and executed financial resource development plan with
clearly identified objectives – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Development Plan
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Janel Margaretta Schwartz
The MJCCA created a Development Plan for FY 2010 in order to maintain financial stability and achieve
our fundraising goals. Approximately 25% of the agency's income relies on contributions. This plan
serves to outline how the MJCCA will raise the necessary annual funds and provides a framework for
solicitors, fundraising chairs, and MJCCA departments. The Development Plan ensures that MJCCA
fundraising is centralized with uniform messages and communication and minimizes multiple donor
solicitations at the same time. Through this Development Plan, the MJCCA will be able sustain our
position as the cornerstone of the Atlanta Jewish community.
Financial Resource Development Endowment Campaign – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Create a Jewish Legacy Program
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
The Create a Jewish Legacy program is a community wide endowment fund initiative to raise permanent
endowment funds to support Jewish agencies in the community. The legacy program is designed to
promote awareness of planned giving opportunities and specifically targets current and prior donors
and key volunteers involved in the community to make a commitment to include the JCC in their Estate
plans.
Financial Resource Development Special events ‐ Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
50 Years on Hoover Road
President: Michael Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Martha Karatz
“50 Years on Hoover Road” was the theme for 2008 at the Arthur M. Glick JCC in Indianapolis. A logo
and branded look, in keeping with the JCCA brand in color and style, was created to promote the theme
throughout the building and grounds, electronic and print materials as well as programs and activities.
Several events were specifically designed around the theme. Several existing programs incorporated the
theme. Activities included a reunion party for baby boomers, an annual meeting honoring past
presidents and a culminating party for 300 including a sit‐down dinner, live and silent auctions,
entertainment and honors.
Financial Resource Development Special events – Gold Star
JCC of Staten Island, Staten Island, NY
80th Anniversary Gala
President: Meirav Lev‐Ari
Executive Director: David Sorkin
Chair: Anita Bruckmeir
The JCC of Staten Island was dedicated to creating a meaningful event in honor of the agency's 80th
anniversary. We engaged our past and future leadership in honoring our history and sharing a vision of
our future as we look forward to another 80 years. This gala evening and its program helped us to
honor, engage and reconnect with members of our community who have the strongest, long‐time
relationship with the agency. In so doing, we continue to build on a glorious history of fostering and
strengthening our Jewish community.
Financial Resource Development Special events – Gold Star
Milton & Betty Katz JCC, Margate City, NJ
Atlantic City Marathon
President: Richard Steinberg
Executive Director: Jack Fox
Chair: Brian Barry
The Atlantic City Marathon is the 3rd oldest running event in the country. It offers something for
everyone from a Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 2M walk and Kids Fun Run. This event is something
that allows the Milton & Betty Katz the opportunity to move beyond our walls to help bring together our
community and promote not just our mission, but the area as a whole.
JEWISH LIVING AND LEARNING AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Initiatives that foster intra‐ and inter‐ agency collaboration, support, and development
to strengthen Jewish life in your community
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, WI
Community Slichot Weekend
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Jody Hirsh
In January of 2008, the JCC acquired a grant from the local Jewish Community Foundation to bring in
Jerusalem rabbi and teacher, Levi Weiman‐Kelman. The 21 month process activated a coalition of all the
liberal synagogues in Milwaukee as well as other organizations such as the Coalition for Jewish Learning,
the Wisconsin Society for Jewish Learning, Hillel, and BBYO. The event was a huge success with
hundreds of people participating in services and study sessions in the synagogues and at the JCC, as well
a city‐wide Slichot dinner, study and services.
Programs that demonstrate how your JCC inspires Jewish journeys – Gold Star
Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
KaleidoFest: Celebrate Israel at 60
Chair of the Board: Michael Staenberg
Executive Director: Lynn Wittels
Chair: Rabbi Brad Horwitz
The St. Louis JCC planned a week's worth of programs and festivities to celebrate Israel's 60th
anniversary called KaleidoFest: Celebrate Israel at 60. The JCC gym was transformed into an elaborate
Israeli Artists bazaar with ten artist booths and over twelve separate programs and events attracted
over 5000 participants from young to old during the week.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Initiatives that foster intra‐ and inter‐ agency collaboration, support, and development
to strengthen Jewish life in your community – Gold Star
Addison‐Penzak JCC of Silicon Valley, Los Gatos, CA
Grandpals Shabbat
President: Virginia Hess
Executive Director: Hal Bordy
Chair: Cyndi Sherman
Grandpals Shabbat meets the growing needs of families living far away from older family members.
Bringing together preschool aged children and older adults in song, study, and activity helps build lasting
relationships. Over time and alongside AES, Grandpals Shabbat builds community between generations
in a Jewish context that is positive and warm. Preschoolers make friendships with older adults. Seniors
get to participate in "super cute" preschool programming, while also engaging in more sophisticated
adult education. Most importantly, everyone has a great time!!! Relationships bloom between children
and Grandpals
Programs that demonstrate how your JCC inspires Jewish journeys – Gold Star
Adolph and Rose Levis JCC, Parkland, FL
Sha’ar
President: Stephanie Owitz
Executive Director: Martin Schneer
Chair: Marsha Jaquays
Targeting children in grades K‐2, Sha’ar engages families in Jewish lifelong learning through a curriculum
that will create Jewish experiences, introduce Jewish religious leadership and provide a forum for
interacting in a Jewish environment. This program is a gateway to synagogue affiliation as well as the
organized Jewish community.
Programs that demonstrate how your JCC inspires Jewish journeys – Gold Star
Betty & Milton Katz JCC, Cherry Hill, NJ
To Laugh, To Life! A History of Jewish Comedy
President: Glenn Fuhrman
Executive Director: Les Cohen
Chair: Ruth Gluck
"To Laugh, To Life! A History of Jewish Comedy" is a highly interactive collaboration of the JCCA Journeys
initiative and the Betty and Milton Katz JCC in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. During its first run in Cherry Hill in
the summer of 2009, the program attracted nearly 90 Jewish adults who came together for six weeks of
laughter and learning as they explored the development of Jewish comedy across time, geography,
language, and style. Participants delighted in this multi‐sensory class, which navigates through identity,
culture, religion, history, and taboo.
Programs that demonstrate how your JCC inspires Jewish journeys – Gold Star
92nd Street Y, New York, NY
Shababa Community: Jewish Family Experiences with Karina
President: Thomas Kaplan
Executive Director: Sol Adler
Chair: Martin Maskowitz
Shababa is the umbrella for multigenerational Jewish Family programs, experiences and celebrations at
the 92nd Street Y. Shababa provides an invitation for parents with young children to come together in a
warm, welcoming, inclusive environment to enjoy planting the seeds of Jewish life and learning in our
children. Children are at the center of the Shababa experience and parents are involved through their
children, in a way that simultaneously engages adult sensibilities as well. Shababa helps families create
shared Jewish learning and experiences in a supportive community environment.
Programs, activities, and experiences that enhance the Jewish ambiance and
environment of the JCC – Gold Star
Betty & Milton Katz JCC, Cherry Hill, NJ
Shomray Adamah and Going Green
President: Glenn Fuhrman
Executive Director: Les Cohen
Chair: Aaron Greenberg
The Betty and Milton Katz JCC jumped on the bandwagon of Going Green and protecting the
environment, and did so by promoting the Jewish value of Shomray Adamah. We created a new logo
and a new committee, but most importantly changed the culture of the JCC and its members and staff.
The JCC is significantly more paperless and its operation is more environmentally friendly. With a
modest initial investment, we have reduced costs and reduced our carbon footprint. Our members and
staff feel good that they are part of a successful ongoing initiative that is rooted in Jewish tradition.
Programs, activities, and experiences that enhance the Jewish ambiance and
environment of the JCC – Gold Star
Omaha JCC, Omaha, NE
Israel@60‐ 2008 Yom Ha'Atzmaut Celebration
President: Kimberly Robinson
Executive Director: Jeffrey Aizenberg
Chair: Lisa Shkolnick
The Omaha JCC held the community‐wide "Israel@60" Celebration, providing a special, unique event
utilizing a wide variety of volunteers and professionals from our community. The Celebration focused on
the following 9 activities: 1. Israel Vendor Fair, 2. Community "Walk for Israel", 3. Children's Arts, Crafts,
and Activities, 4. Israeli Film/Documentary Series, 5. Israel Trivia Quiz, 6. "Reflections on Israel and the
Next 60 Yrs"...a round‐robin experience with 5 local Rabbis, 7. Book Award Contest, 8. Presentation of
Teen Leadership Awards, 9. Live Performance of Israeli Band‐ Kolot Ort.
Programs/activities that enhance Jewish knowledge and commitment to Jewish life –
Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Book Fest
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Stephanie Singer
Book Fest is a day of conversations, book talks and signings that takes place on the first Sunday in
November each year at the JCCSF. At Book Fest, patrons discover the freshest new voices in the thriving
contemporary Jewish literary scene and get the chance to meet and mingle with award‐winning writers
from around the world. Free and open to the public, this popular annual festival brings together twenty
to thirty authors, thirty community partners, and 1200 – 1500 patrons, many of whom are newcomers
to the JCCSF. By bringing everyone together under one roof, Book Fest creates new organic
communities of readers while fostering interest in Jewish literature. Also at Book Fest 2009 was the
Moment Magazine‐Karma Foundation Short Fiction contest awards ceremony. Book Fest is truly a
celebration of the best of today’s Jewish literary landscape.
Programs/activities that enhance Jewish knowledge and commitment to Jewish life –
Gold Star
Barshop JCC of San Antonio, San Antonio, NM
Anne Frank A History for Today; a Lesson for Tomorrow
President: Sharon Stern
Executive Director: Saul Levenshus
Chair: Michael Waldman
Anne Frank: A History for Today, A Lesson for Tomorrow engaged more than 7,500 people through
tours, programs and events in February of 2009. Anne Frank: A History for Today, from the Anne Frank
Center, NYC juxtaposes photographs of the Frank family with those of historical events of the time, and
shows how persecuted people such as the Franks were affected by political decisions and by the actions
of individuals. The exhibit educated more than 7,500 visitors, engaged 100 volunteers and increased
interaction between Jewish agencies.
Programs/activities that enhance Jewish knowledge and commitment to Jewish life –
Gold Star
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, WI
Introduction to Judaism
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Rabbi Shari Shamah
Introduction to Judaism is a course designed to engage those who are seeking to become Jewish, those
who are in relationship with someone who is Jewish but not necessarily to convert, as well as those who
were born Jewish but would like additional basic Jewish education. It is an example of a positive
partnership between the JCC, area synagogues and the Wisconsin Council of Rabbis. The sessions are
team taught between rabbis and JCC Jewish educators. An additional component of this class is a basic
Hebrew background for the students who enroll.
Programs/activities that enhance Jewish knowledge and commitment to Jewish life –
Gold Star
Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
Sichot Kodesh: Holy Conversations with the Rabbis
President: Michael Staenberg
Executive Director: Lynn Wittels
Chair: Rabbi Brad Horwitz
The St. Louis JCC partnered with the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and the Central Agency for Jewish
Education to offer a new series of adult Jewish learning workshops for the community. Sichot Kodesh:
Holy Conversations with the Rabbis offered twenty‐one different classes with twenty‐one different
community rabbis. Each month three rabbis give their unique perspective on a similar topic. All classes
were held at the JCC.
Programs/activities that enhance Jewish knowledge and commitment to Jewish life –
Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Sukkot Outside In
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Nathaniel Bergson‐Michelson
Sukkot Outside In... Sukkot celebrated in a brand new way. The JCCSF brought the outside in by
converting its entire central atrium into a sukkah and hosting a week of unique events. A city park clean‐
up kicked off the week, which also included a farmers' market, tastings of the Seven Sacred Species
native to Israel, an organic happy hour hosted by members of the Tuv Ha'Aretz Community‐Supported
Agriculture Project, a Raw Shabbat with insights into the new Jewish food movement, a family Shabbat,
three separate sukkahs offering opportunities for both public engagement and halakhic observance, and
more
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Board Development Comprehensive board development curriculum and new
initiatives – Gold Star
Tucson JCC, Tucson, AZ
Hineni ‐ Board Recruitment/Training/Expectations
President: Fran Katz
Executive Director: Kenneth Light
Chair: Philip Pepper
The Board felt we could be doing a better job of recruiting, training, and educating both prospective and
current Board members. As special task force on Directors and Governance was formed using current
and prospective leadership. This followed a shift in governance and leadership the previous year and
began to take a look at the next issues facing us. We sought to interview key individuals for potential JCC
involvement (perhaps Board membership but also just getting them involved) who met criteria
developed on a matrix to match with the needs of the agency with the skill set and interests of the
individual. The goal of this is to engage more key individuals with leadership potential, into a formalized
training program meshed with expectations leading to greater involvement, giving, and participation.
Reaching out to prospects fitting our model who were not previously engaged opened a brand new
arena of possibility for us. By reaching new members of the community and including/engaging them in
Jewish life, we continue to build Jewish community. This has led to: * Fewer raw "asks" and declinations;
rather, more thorough screening and compatibility matching. * Greater numbers of newly involved
individuals. * More thorough training leading to more effective participation and support. * Clearer
expectations with greater financial support generated both directly and indirectly.
Board Development Program/activities that help the board inspire Jewish journeys –
Gold Star
Leo Yassenoff JCC of Greater Columbus, Columbus, OH
JCC Board Family Shabbat Dinner
President: Marc Fishel
Executive Director: Carol Folkerth
Chair: Carol Folkerth
The Board President wanted to create an opportunity for Board members and their families to come
together and celebrate Shabbat. The program was held prior to the first meeting to allow Board
members an opportunity to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. Three families were given
the responsibility for each set of blessings: Candles, Kiddush & HaMotzi. Each shared a memory or
thought about their own family experience. The dinner was held at the JCC and prepared by the JCC's
own chef. This allowed participants to taste the JCC's great cuisine and experience dining at the JCC.
Families were charged for the cost of the dinner.
Board Development Training modules for board and/or committees – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Twelve Principles of Governance Exercise
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
During the Fall Board retreat in August, 2008, an exercise was conducted to identify current strengths
and gaps in governance using the Board Source 12 principles of Governance as a text. The board broke
into groups and then compared notes to complete the exercise. The objectives of this initiative were to
educate board about the 12 principles, identify and determine how to maximize current governance
strengths, identify gaps in practice, developed ideas for addressing gaps, assign to individual committees
follow up tasks and track and report progress back to Board on status of initiatives. The project is
ongoing and has provided significant direction and increased awareness.
New leaders programs developed for those not yet on the board or on the board for
less than two years ‐ Innovative ways to engage board members – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Board Extranet
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
The Weinstein JCC created a password protected extranet page on their website where all materials and
information to be presented at board meetings is posted prior to meetings to enable board members to
review information and come to meetings prepared for discussion. The access of this information
enables board members not present to review materials and new board members to review information
from past meetings.
New leaders programs developed for those not yet on the board or on the board for
less than two years ‐ Program/activities to involve new leaders in JCC leadership roles
– Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
ArtsFest Volunteer and Leadership Retention Task Force
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Carla Rosenfeld
The JCC Maccabi ArtsFest Volunteer and Leadership Retention Task Force were created after an amazing
response from the community to volunteer for JCC Maccabi ArtsFest in August 2008. In order to keep
the momentum going and the community engaged the task force was set up by volunteer chairs to meet
with staff liaisons and assess all the individuals who had volunteered for ArtsFest. At the meetings each
volunteer was discussed as to their potential to be a future volunteer, committee member or potential
leader in the JCCNV. Notes were made on a spreadsheet about each volunteer’s potential role within
the JCCNV Volunteer Corps and how to best utilize each person.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Board Development Training modules for board and/or committees – Gold Star
JCC of Houston, Houston, TX
Leadership Development
President: Dan Steiner
Executive Director: Jerry Wische
Chair: Joel Dinkin
The goals of the four part Leadership Development program were to engage 20 ‐ 25 individuals,
broadening their leadership skills, educating them about the JCC, roles and responsibilities of lay leaders
and staff, and to meet other members of the community. As a result, participants would become
involved with the JCC on committees and projects.
New leaders programs developed for those not yet on the board or on the board for
less than two years ‐ Orientation programs to engage new leaders to the JCC and its
mission – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore, Owings Mills, MD
JCC 101
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Gail Zuskin
Identifying, recruiting, developing and retaining leadership has never been more important for
Baltimore’s Jewish Community Center. In an effort to attract new talent, the JCC, specifically the
Governance Committee, has inaugurated a leadership program, JCC 101. Participants are identified and
invited to two learning sessions where they are presented an overview of the JCC and its role in the
Community. The sessions are developed to provide maximum opportunity for group interaction,
including case Jewish studies and Learning. Following the program, the Governance Committee
convenes to assess each person’s interests and potential effectiveness as someone to pursue for JCC lay
leadership. Leadership recruitment and development can no longer be left to chance and the Baltimore
JCC has found that JCC 101 is a proactive, effective way of our achieving goal of finding “the best and the
brightest”.
New leaders programs developed for those not yet on the board or on the board for
less than two years ‐ Orientation programs to engage new leaders to the JCC and its
mission – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
Committee/Task Force Leadership Development Program
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Eric Koehler
A committee and task force leadership orientation and development program that connects each
committee to the broader agency mission and vision. Promotes establishment of purpose setting, goal
setting, program budget understanding and FRD to help program move to break even or contributing
financially to the agency. A formalized meeting structure is set up with each leader and staff liaison as
well as follows up meetings to provide networking, community building, formal and informal learning
from communal leaders and professionals. Now that our Strategic Think Process has been completed
and approved by the board, follow up meeting will include connecting and educating each work group
to this new framework as well as hand outs to add to each binder. This is an invaluable program that
each JCC should undertake.
New leaders programs developed for those not yet on the board or on the board for
less than two years ‐ Programs for leadership development or board development
committees – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Erwin Zaban Leadership Development Program (EZLDP)
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Janel Margaretta Schwartz
The MJCCA Erwin Zaban Leadership Development Program is an eight session program designed to
educate individuals who demonstrate leadership promise within the MJCCA and the Atlanta Jewish
community. This popular and successful program enables its participants to develop leadership skills
while obtaining a better understanding of the MJCCA and its role in the community. The program offers
opportunities for participants to connect with their Jewish identity, become more involved in the
Atlanta Jewish community, and play an active leadership role at the MJCCA.
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Incentives to enhance membership recruitment
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
Hanukah Campaign
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Janet Leavitt
The St. Paul JCC developed a Happy Hanukah postcard mailer showing members 8 significant things that
are included in their membership to enjoy at this time of year, and always. Hanukah is a time for family
gathering. We used the symbolism of the candles on the menorah to bring meaning and enlightenment
to their lives through their JCC membership.
Initiatives for member retention – Gold Star
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, IL
JCC Chai Life Game
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Holly Williamson
The JCC CHAI Life game was designed with several purposes in mind: to add value to membership
(support retention), to cross‐promote programs (enhance revenue) and to encourage communication
between members and staff. The compact, portable and colorful paper game board is distributed to
members so that they will attend classes and events and make purchases, thus earning stamps on the
board and winning prizes (18 stamps = $25 JCC gift card, 36 stamps = $100 credit on account). Buzz
about the game is being created through posters, e‐mail messages and newsletter articles. Members
have a year from date of issue to play the game “we’ll” know in 2011 if it was successful.
Initiatives for member retention – Gold Star
Allentown JCC, Allentown, PA
jPerks
President: Robert Hammel
Executive Director: Carol Kranitz
Chair: Phyllis Fogel
jPerks is a membership retention program launched in March 2009. Our words say it all. We value your
membership to the Jewish Community Center of Allentown. Thank you for your continued support. The
JCC has joined together with Lehigh Valley local merchants to present you with discounts and special
savings. Over 30 businesses in your community encourage you to use your jPerks card and enjoy the
reductions and exclusive offers for JCC members. Please check our website at www.allentownjcc.org for
an up to date list of businesses and services available. Look for the jPerks link on the homepage and read
the details. Visit (or call) and show your jPerks card to take advantage of another reason to say YOU
BELONG HERE; Current offers expire December 31, 2009.
New membership structure, model, or promotion – Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
Membership Promotions
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Hollie Arnold
The direct mail marketing pieces for new member marketing included the following two successful
promotions. The Polar Body Age Fitness Assessment and (4) 1/2 hour personal training sessions were
offered to all new members upon joining. The fitness assessment gave the member and the trainer a
synopsis of the new member's current physical health so that a more personalized fitness plan could be
developed. Our Family Value Packs contain 15 coupons ($280 value) offering discounts on various JCA
programs such as sports leagues, swim lessons, swim team, art classes, Early Childhood enrichment
programs, Youth programs and more. According to the new member's interests, the membership staff
encouraged the new member to use the coupons upon enrolling. The Value Packs have been a big
success and have increased participation in JCC programs.
New membership structure, model, or promotion ‐ Gold Star
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
Membership/Camp Butwin Promotion 2009
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Janet Leavitt
The St. Paul JCC developed a new initiative to increase our membership base and camp registration,
offering the opportunity for non‐members to enroll in camp at a higher amount that could be applied
towards a membership within 2 months of their camp experience.
New membership structure, model, or promotion
Tucson JCC, Tucson, AZ
Targeted Marketing May 2009 Promotion
President: Fran Katz
Executive Director: Kenneth Light
Chair: Sue Gawera
During our May, 2009 membership promotion, we targeted our marketing pieces to the demographics
of the prospects we were sending them to. We created two post cards, one with a baby splashing in
water to appeal to families, and the other with a beach ball that would connote fun. The tag line was
“The ultimate summer vacation”; right around the corner”. Two separate mailing lists were generated,
both with the same financial demographics, both in the same three zip codes, but with one list directed
at those with children and the other for those without. We increased our new families by 3%, which in
turn increased camp during the summer and our after school program in the fall.
New membership structure, model, or promotion – Gold Star
JCC of Metropolitan Detroit, West Bloomfield, MI
JCC Healthy U
President: Mark Davidoff
Executive Director: Mark Lit
Chair: Suzanne Lichtman
JCC Healthy U serves the surrounding communities of the Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan
Detroit by providing health and wellness education programs that extend beyond those of a typical
fitness center or gym. Through partnerships and sponsors, JCC Healthy U is implemented via a series of
one to two‐day events with health fairs, product sampling, food demonstrations, educational seminars
and aggressive membership campaigns. In addition to adding value to existing members and program
participants, this program has attracted new members and resulted in our most successful membership
campaigns ever.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Incentives to enhance membership recruitment – Gold Star
Addison‐Penzak JCC of Silicon Valley, Los Gatos, CA
Business Alliance
President: Virginia Hess
Executive Director: Hal Bordy
Chair: Dina Jacobson
The APJCC Business Alliance provides local businesses with an opportunity to reach the highly sought
after JCC member population. In turn, the JCC is able to produce member mixers from revenue
generated by the Business Alliance. Business Alliance members get business, JCC members get to
connect, and the APJCC enjoys increased retention as a result. Everybody wins!
Incentives to enhance membership recruitment – Gold Star
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC, Bridgewater, NJ
Corporate Memberships
President: Peter Horowitz
Executive Director: Susan Greenbaum
Chair: Debbie Golden
The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC Corporate Membership program reaches out to local businesses to
build our corporate membership base. Staff reaches out to the Human Resource liaison to explore
membership interest and opportunity. Staff visits the company location to meet with employees, offer
presentation on JCC programs/services. Company is invited to JCC for group information session/tour,
provides guest passes. Individual tours are also offered. The key to the success of this program is to treat
each business prospect as unique, and to respond with a membership program that delivers what the
employees want in regard to health and wellness.
Initiatives for member retention – Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
Make It Fit & Membership Appreciation
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Hollie Arnold
Initiatives for member retention: 1. Make‐It‐Fit Program: We offer members who have not used the
facility for several months (4) ½ hour personal training sessions at no charge. These members are the
ones who more than likely would cancel their memberships due to lack of use. This program has been
successful. 2. We have a Membership Appreciation event every 6 months. Free chair messages have
been a big hit along with the light refreshments. Our valued added free agency wide events (such as
Sukkot, Chanukah, and Family Fun Days) have been extremely successful and reinforce the value of
membership.
Initiatives for member retention – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
Membership Recruitment and Retention
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Eric Koehler
The JCCNV's focus on recruitment and retention is achieved through various activities that dedicate
itself to offering quality programs and services to emphasize Jewish culture and identity and connect
people of all backgrounds in a central hub. Through continued appreciation of our members and
showing new members the broader spectrum of our facility, the JCCNV strives to present its staff as
continuously accessible, devoted, and involved in both improving community relationships and quality
programming.
Initiatives for member retention – Gold Star
Mandell Jewish Community Center, West Hartford, CT
Member Retention Program
President: Brian Newman
Executive Director: David Jacobs
Chair: Annie Keith
In a time when the people of our community are looking for a place to bring their family and call home,
the Mandell JCC made a decision to focus on Membership Retention and satisfaction that goes above
and beyond the current standards and membership practices. By treating all new members as
individuals instead of giving each the same level of follow‐up we have been able to identify those
members who need extra help getting connected to the center, our programs and our services. In
addition, we offer a volunteer program that at its core exists to bring members a strong sense of
belonging and purpose as part of our JCC family.
New membership structure, model, or promotion – Gold Star
Sabes JCC, St. Louis Park, MN
New Membership Models
President: Robin Neidorf
Executive Director: Stuart Wachs
Chair: Sara Rubinett
Sabes JCC leadership felt that our membership categories were limiting participation by individuals who
were not partaking of our fitness center offerings. As a result, staff and board created 2 new
membership categories ‐ a Community Membership designed for those individuals and families who do
not have a need or interest in using the health & wellness facilities but do want to be members and get
discounts on our programs and events, and a Sustaining Membership, which is a fully philanthropic and
tax‐deductible membership. These options, combined with our traditional health & wellness
membership, eliminate our one‐size‐fits‐all membership structure.
New membership structure, model, or promotion – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
Restructuring of Membership Categories and Fees
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Eric Koehler
The revision of membership structures and fees focused on consolidating the number of categories in
order to create more program‐inclusive membership types with greater payment options. The program
created flexible memberships allowing JCCNV members to pick the membership term length that best
suits their needs. Additionally, as part of the new membership structure, incorporation of group exercise
classes enable us to promote good health, add value to the membership, and encourage members to
participate in the larger JCCNV community activities.
PLANNING AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
A process leading to the adoption of a new or re‐affirmed mission and/or vision for
the JCC – Gold Star
Capital Camp & Retreat Center, Rockville, MD
Curriculum Guide
Executive Director: David Phillips
Chair: Karen Bernstein
Our mission is to nurture and develop productive Jewish citizens. This, in turn, results in more vibrant
Jewish and secular communities. The immersion environment we call “Camp” is the means to that end.
Fun and adventure are the prime motivates for attendance, yet our program provides content on
multiple levels, and parents should be aware of this approach as it reinforces their decision to send their
child to our camp. In fact, every experience is unique and as camp professionals we understand there is
far more to camp than simple fun. With this in mind, we’ve created our curriculum guide which provides
camp families with a detailed explanation of the camp magic and how, through careful design, it
benefits their child. People often associate developmental growth with activities such as sports or
drama. We believe every interaction and activity can impact personal growth. Whether it is a communal
meal served in the dining hall or a lively song session, the experience leaves an indelible impression.
These “moments in time” are the puzzle pieces that challenge children to reflect and contemplate their
place in the world. Camp is a place of extraordinary highs and occasional lows: just as in everyday life.
Campers learn, grow, challenge, fail, invent and discover themselves, all in a uniquely Jewish setting. We
are committed to providing a rewarding summer that grows in intensity as our campers mature. We
have developed this guide so that our camp families will feel good about choosing Capital Camps as the
vehicle for their child’s physical, emotional and spiritual growth.
A strategic thinking process – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
JCCNV Strategic Thinking Process
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Eric Koehler
The Strategic Thinking and Planning Process are part of a three stage process ‐ Stage 1: Strategic
Thinking, Outcome: Gaining Perspective; Stage 2: Strategic Planning, Outcome: Determining Position;
Stage 3: Tactical Planning. Stage one outcome: Achieving Performance. Strategic thinking with
engagement at 30,000 ft. level through the entire board, CEO, senior management actively involved;
department heads engaged. The following are the quality of thinking required: Forward‐thinking,
Independent, Change‐ready and Patient. Strategic thinking affirms or refines the "why" of the JCC, gains
you perspective and provides focus, is about the "big picture", will suggest future‐oriented strategies
and is a pre‐requisite for planning, the intermediate step in developing the JCC's future strategic profile.
A strategic thinking process – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Jewish Life and Learning
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Laura Lewkowict
Arts, culture, and Jewish education programs at the MJCCA build Jewish community and inspire Jewish
journeys. These programs have proven to be a key outreach tool for building a connection to the Jewish
community+; particularly to the unaffiliated. These programs, primarily targeted at adults, are a feeder
to bring people to the MJCCA, engage them in programming, and create membership opportunities. The
creation of Jewish Life and Learning is to centralize all programs and grow and expand the myriad of
innovative programs throughout Atlanta.
A strategic thinking process – Gold Star
Asheville JCC, Asheville, NC
Asheville Jewish Leadership Collaborative
President: Eric Scheffer
Executive Director: Heather Goldstein
Chair: Heather Whitaker Goldstein
The Asheville Jewish Leadership Collaborative (AJLC) exists for the purpose of enhancing
communications and encouraging collaborations among Asheville's Jewish community organizations.
The group, comprising lay and professional leaders from ten Jewish agencies, meets monthly sharing
updates from each organization, discussing items of common interest, and planning for the collaborative
growth and improvement of Asheville's Jewish communal life.
Strategic or business plan – Gold Star
Adolph and Rose Levis JCC, Boca Raton, FL
Levis JCC Strategic Plan
President: Stephanie Owitz
Executive Director: Martin Schneer
Chair: Marsha Jaquays
The Strategic Plan was an opportunity for our community to unite with a common goal of broadening
the outreach market of JCC members. Board members, community leaders and professional staff
worked hand‐in‐hand with an outside consultant analyzing current services and evolving future
programs to engage children, families and grow our membership/affiliation base. The target
demographic of the strategic plan is multi‐prong: 1. To evaluate other membership opportunities that
would attract members of our community who want to affiliate with the Levis JCC, but are not
necessarily interested in the use of a Fitness Center, such as a social membership or adult/cultural
membership. 2. To evaluate programs that would keep our families whose children attended our
preschool connected with the JCC and Jewish life, and to attract families who are not otherwise
affiliated to Jewish life ‐‐ in specific intermarried families. 3. Find even more ways to connect donors to
our JCC and the Jewish community.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
A published report with an implementation plan that has been adopted by the JCC's
board as a result of a planning study – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Greening Initiative
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
The Weinstein JCC began a greening initiative by reaching out to all JCC members and recruited 15 new
committee members who had not previously been involved on JCC committees, but all shared a
commitment to and/or expertise with greening efforts. The committee researched with staff partner’s
current practices and future initiatives to implement in the areas of energy management, conservation,
chemical usage and water management and then prioritized next steps for first year tasks and tasks
beyond first year. This effort is ongoing and has already provided great PR for members and reduced
expenses for trash and supplies.
Strategic or business plan – Gold Star
Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
Strategic Planning
President: Michael Staenberg
Executive Director: Lynn Wittels
Chair: Rabbi Brad Horwitz
The JCC approved its last strategic plan in 2005. That plan focused on defining the agency's five lines of
service and creating a plan for financial sustainability that highlighted improvements in facilities and
programs. While many improvements were made with regard to programming, this new strategic plan
will be an ongoing initiative of the agency. Innovative, high‐quality programming, coupled with
increased excellence in operations, customer loyalty and facilities will help ensure long term success for
the JCC. Strategic plans were developed for 11 key departments to align with the over‐arching goals of
the agency.
Strategic or business plan – Gold Star
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC, Bridgewater, NJ
Strategic Plan
President: Peter Horowitz
Executive Director: Susan Greenbaum
Chair: Susan Greenbaum
At the end of 2007, the Executive Committee of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community
Center concluded that the time had come to continue the strategic planning process that had been
begun in 2001. At this point in the development of the JCC, it was determined that three specific areas
should be studied with a view of two to three years out. These areas are: Fiscal Sustainability; Programs
and Services; and Judaic Profile. Objectives for each of these areas were developed during an
organizational session led by JCCA consultant, Steven Rod. Three subcommittees were formed and each
set out over a period of several months to develop strategies to identify objectives, establish the status
quo in each area, and make recommendations to be attained within the specific timeframe.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR
PROFESSIONAL STAFF AWARDS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs for continuing education for staff – Gold Star
Omaha JCC, Omaha, NE
Child Abuse Prevention and Training with Project Harmony
President: Kimberly Robinson
Executive Director: Jeffrey Aizenberg
Chair: Esther Katz
The JCC first started working with Project Harmony (PH) “a child abuse and neglect center “ to revise
and revamp our Child Abuse policy. After completing we realized that PH had a lot to offer that we
wanted the rest of the JCC staff to experience. First we had all Full Time JCC staff, Jewish Professionals &
Clergy in the city came together to be trained on recognizing child abuse and how to report it. From this
session arose a desire to learn how to be facilitators of the training. Debra Anderson, Director of
Training and Education at PH, came out to train the group of 7 JCC staff. After this we decide we wanted
more. We brought Debra Anderson out again to do a training session for parents. This was open to all of
our JCC members, Jewish Community and staff. We continue to have training sessions for our part time
staff led by the team of JCC staffers that were trained to facilitate these groups.
Programs for continuing education for staff – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore, Owings Mills, MD
Lifeguard Orientation and Mentoring Program
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Bill Kirkner
The JCC of Greater Baltimore developed an Orientation program for new lifeguards based on a
mentoring model. After an initial, basic orientation to policies and procedures, “rookie” lifeguards were
paired with “veterans,” who in turn provided one‐on‐one introductions to Center leadership, monitoring
of a fitness swimming regimen, and evaluation of basic lifeguarding skills. Veteran guards “shadow”
each “rookie,” providing feedback. When the “rookie” is deemed ready to guard on their own, their
“green” rookie uniform is traded in for a regular “white” staff shirt during an appropriate presentation
by their mentor.
Continuing education for professional staff Programs for continuing education for staff
– Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Professional Leadership Development Program (PLDP)
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Janel Margaretta Schwartz
The MJCCA’s Professional Leadership Development Program (PLDP) is an educational opportunity for
full‐time staff members to develop the critical skills necessary to further advance their career as leaders
at the MJCCA. The PLDP connects our staff members to the Jewish community, inspires their Jewish
journey, and creates opportunities for them to flourish and grow at the MJCCA.
Professional Development Awards ‐ Retention of professional staff Efforts and/or
incentives to retain staff – Gold Star
Lawrence Family JCC of San Diego County, La Jolla, CA
Retirement Program
President: Julie Potiker
Executive Director: Michael Cohen
Chair: Ana Kozlowski
The Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, JACOBS FAMILY CAMPUS reinstated a new 403 (B)
Retirement Plan for JCC employees after 19 years without having one. This was achieved after raising $1
Million thanks to a $500,000 matching grant and a subsequent targeted Retirement fundraising
matching campaign without impacting the annual operating budget. Any employee who works over
1,000 hours annually is eligible to participate. In order to maximize the number of employees
participating, the JCC contributes a fixed $750, $1,000 or $1,500 annually based on years of service for
each eligible employee in addition to a matching percentage contribution.
Professional Development Awards ‐ Retention of professional staff ‐ Efforts and/or
incentives to retain staff – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Go for the Gold
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
All full time JCC staff was offered the opportunity to participate in a fitness competition. For a $40 entry
fee, staff received 16 personal training sessions with one of the JCC trainers establishing goals and
benchmarks. Staff who best achieved goals split total funds with their trainer. Objectives of the program
included encouraging staff use of Fitness Center, improve health and wellness of staff, offer staff an
additional benefit, and educate staff on the benefits of personal training and equipment in the fitness
center. Forty staff entered the competition, 34 completed at least 1/2 of their sessions, 25 fully or
mostly achieved their goals and 20 are still actively using the Fitness Center after 6 months.
Professional Development Awards ‐ Retention of professional staff Efforts and/or
incentives to retain staff – Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Positive Change
President: Michael Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Judy Sosin
A Customer Service Training Initiative grew out of the strategic plan. The board made a commitment to
partner with Scott Asalone of A & S Global Management Consulting who helped board and staff
identifies JCC's signature organizational strengths and where they would like to be in 10 years. Staff
went on to meet regularly and created a driving vision: "Being our best to inspire the best in others."
Staff ascertained core strengths and internal standards. A staff committee monitored progress of
activities and commitments made during initial meetings. An Employee‐Based Committee of line staff
was formed to find creative solutions to day‐to‐day challenges and implement a social calendar for JCC
staff.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Continuing education for professional staff Programs for continuing education for staff
– Gold Star
Tucson JCC, Tucson, AZ
Beyond Basics ‐ The J Way
President: Fran Katz
Executive Director: Kenneth Light
Chair: Denise Blumenthal
Beyond Basics ‐ The J Way is an ongoing staff development program to train on essential behaviors such
as friendliness and responsiveness, professionalism, cleanliness, solving problems, and promoting a safe,
green environment, that increase engagement of both staff and members. It was created by staff,
designed and trained by staff, measured in performance reviews, praised in Star Cards for exemplary
performance, and publicly rewarded monthly by J Team Staff Awards. By creating a warmer and more
welcoming environment, we have increased staff retention and attracted more new members than in
prior years. Best of all, it was a true team endeavor.
Continuing education for professional staff Programs for continuing education for staff
– Gold Star
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, IL
All Staff Customer Service Training
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Carolyn Destache
All Staff Customer Service Training Program : a successful staff training program that involved our entire
staff. We closed the JCC early so that every staff member could attend. The goals of the program were
to set clear expectations of staff in providing C.A.R.I.N.G. customer service to our customers all the time:
C=Consistent, A=Attentive, R=Reliable, I=Individualized, N=Notable and G=Generous, to change the
customer service culture of the agency and to introduce an ongoing customer service training program.
The program’s atmosphere was upbeat, fun, yet serious about the expectations of the programs. The
feedback from the staff was great learning opportunity.
Continuing education for professional staff ‐ Staff training modules – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Weinstein JCC University Certification Program
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
The Weinstein JCC University Orientation Certification Program trains staff about policies and
procedures, program information, vision and our customer service standards. New staff receive the
program manual to take as they meet with the Executive Director, Assistant Executive Director, CFO and
the rest of the Management staff(to learn about each department). After each meeting they get their
manual signed and upon completion of the program they receive a certification. A good orientation
program will helps motivate new employees, increases job satisfaction and will assist with retention of
the employee.
Professional Development Awards ‐ Retention of professional staff ‐ Staff recognition
efforts – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond VA
Program Happenings and Kudos
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Jordan Shenker
Program happenings is produced monthly and emailed to all staff and board members, listing upcoming
programs and services by date, brief details about each, past program wrap up information and program
enhancements. Kudos is an agenda item at every department head and program staff meeting to
encourage staff to thank one another and acknowledge the contributions of others. The objectives of
these initiatives are to educate staff about upcoming activities and recognize staff by promoting their
programs and activities throughout the year. Staff and board members are better informed about
upcoming programs; staff feels more appreciated and have become more conscious of "catching" each
other helping one another.
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES AWARDS
ADULTS 20’S AND 30’S
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Adults (20's and 30's) – Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Super 8: Hanukkah Happenings with The Hub
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Nathaniel Bergson‐Michelson
The Super 8 Hanukkah Festival is the Bay Area's big‐tent Hanukkah program for young adults, packing
eight ways to burn bright into one big night with Jewish‐world beat music, latke and beer tastings and
cooking classes, art, schmoozing, social justice programs and take‐home Hanukkah Survival Kits. It is
produced in partnership with Jewish agencies serving young adults throughout the region.
Programs and Services Awards Adults (20's and 30's) ‐ Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Hillel VCU Peace Rally
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
In 2009, during the Gaza Conflict, a group of "Free Palestine" supporters were planning a rally on VCU
Campus. After many hours of negotiation, Hillel was able to change the "Free Palestine" into a
community uniting "Peace Rally". The rally ended up with 150 attendees. Both groups remained true to
the mission of the Rally, remained peaceful, and new partnerships were formed. Participants found that
groups needn't agree on politics or religion they just had to find one hope to share and let that light
fuse; then let it shine even brighter once we are united.
ADULTS 40’S AND 60’S
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Adults (40's through 60's) – Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Mickey's Corner
President: Michel Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Larry Rothenberg
Mickey's Corner offers our community with a creative and entertaining way to meet famous and
intriguing people up close and personal through a well prepared, well presented interview program. In
two years we have built a consistently large audience, made money, extended our reputation
throughout the community and have had fun doing it.
ADULTS 70’S AND UP
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Adults (70's and up) – Gold Star
Adolph and Rose Levis JCC, Boca Raton, FL
Thanksgiving Lunch
President: Stephanie Owitz
Executive Director: Martin Schneer
Chair: Marsha Jaquays
The Levis JCC coordinated donor efforts to ensure a Thanksgiving lunch that fed more than 450 seniors,
which included FREE bus transportation. Solidifying the JCC mission of Big Tent Judaism (where our
doors are open to everyone in our community), this luncheon provided a seat at the table for seniors
with their communal Jewish family.
Programs and Services Awards Adults (70's and up) – Gold Star
Mayerson JCC, Cincinnati, OH
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls
President: Howard Schwartz
Executive Director: Jeff Baden
Chair: Susan Bradley
Many seniors experience fear of falling and restrict their activities. The JCC of Cincinnati offers the
Matter of Balance program: Managing Concerns About Falls emphasizes practical strategies to reduce
this fear and increase activity levels. Participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable; set
realistic goals to increase activity; change their environment to reduce fall risk factors; and exercise to
increase strength and balance. The Matter of Balance program includes eight two‐hour sessions for a
small group led by a trained facilitator. This program was developed at the Roybal Center at Boston
University, and has been nationally recognized.
Programs and Services Awards Adults (70's and up) – Gold Star
Betty & Milton Katz JCC, Cherry Hill, NJ
Double Mitzvah
President: Glenn Fuhrman
Executive Director: Les Cohen
Chair: Marcy Weiner Lahav
The Double Mitzvah program enables troubled teens to assist seniors in JCC Adult programs. With
proper supervision and opportunities, both the adults and the students learn to relate and respect one
another. Do not always look in traditional places for volunteers. Volunteerism is on the rise and there
are many untapped populations willing to volunteer their services to meet our needs.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM/ACTIVITIES
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards After‐school program/activities – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond VA
Memories of the Holocaust
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
"Memories of the Holocaust" was hosted by the Weinstein JCC of Richmond, Virginia. This programs'
goal was twofold: 1) to educate the after‐school middle school children and families about the horrors
the Holocaust through direct conversation with Holocaust Survivors and 2) to allow these four survivors
a safe and open space to share the stories they feel must be shared. The program was developed by
WJCC Kids Place Director Eytan Graubart, Rena Berlin, and Education Director of the Virginia Holocaust
Museum, and Taylor Hord, social work intern from Virginia Commonwealth University.
AQUATICS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Aquatics – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore, Owings Mills, MD
Safe Water Initiative: Maryland (SWI:M)
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Bill Kirkner
We organized an event called Safe Water Initiative: Maryland (or SWI:M) to “kick off” our USA
Swimming Foundation/ “Make A Splash” swimming lesson scholarship and grant program. “SWI:M” was
a week‐long series of free evening swimming lessons conducted during the week leading up to the
Memorial Day weekend. We offered these free lessons to anyone who met two conditions: 1) We
wanted to focus on teaching skills instead of classroom behavior, so we required participants to be
“entering first grade” or older; and 2) We asked for participants who had not previously had formal
swimming lessons.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Aquatics – Gold Star
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
2009 Frozen Feet Invitational Logrolling Tournament
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Robin Feickert
Logrolling has a long history in Minnesota and the St. Paul JCC has embraced that history with their
logrolling program and annual Frozen Feet Invitational logrolling tournament. Drawing over 40
participants, ages 3‐60, and from three different states, the tournament encourages Ruach (spirit),
builds friendships and community, as well as individual perseverance.
COMMUNITY SERVICE/SOCIAL ACTION
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Community service/social action – Gold Star
Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills, NY
CARE Day Symposium
President: Eric Donnenfeld
Executive Director: Susan Bender
Chair: Donna Bernstein
On Sunday November 22, 2009, Sid Jacobson JCC in East Hills, New York held their annual Care Day
Symposium. Care Day provided an informative and supportive full day conference for caregivers and
professionals in the field of aging. The day began with a presentation by Dr. Angela Scicutella a geriatric
psychiatrist from the NS/LIJ Zucker‐Hillside Hospital, who discussed different issues that can occur with
the dementia patient at various times of the day. Other topics covered in the keynote presentation
were, effective clinical management of Dementia; non‐pharmacologic interventions and medical
approaches. Following Dr. Scicutella was our main presenter Teepa Snow, a nationally renowned
dementia care and training specialist. Ms. Snow's interactive approach gave the caregiver and
professional real‐life scenarios of the daily life of a person suffering from Alzheimer's disease and/or
dementia. She explained why the behaviors occur and how to deal with challenging behaviors. The
event was sponsored in part by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, The Bristal Assisted Living and
The Alzheimer's Association of Long Island. Over 20 vendors were on hand to disseminate valuable
information for the caregiver. The JCC also provided programs for the Friendship Circle, Let's Do Lunch
and GEMS participants, so their loved ones could attend the symposium. The afternoon program
consisted of 5 different workshops for the professionals and caregiver to choose from. Each workshop
offered different issues a caregiver may face and ways to cope. The workshops included: Guilt, Anger,
And Depression: How to Cope, Can we talk sex, What is Palliative care/When to call hospice, Is it time to
move and Have you planned for the days ahead? Evaluations were given to the participants and the
results were all positive. The day was a supportive and educational day for the caregiver and how to
deal with their loved ones.
Programs and Services Awards Community service/social action – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Purim Gives Back
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
The Weinstein JCC hosted a Purim carnival for the entire community, the theme was "Purim Gives Back."
While this had all the trimmings of any carnival (games, clowns, cotton candy, etc.) and included a Purim
Shpiel, and an opportunity to throw pies at the faces of Rabbis in the community all in the name of
Tikkun Olam. The carnival had a canned food drive and instead of prizes kids won food for the Central
Virginia Food bank. Additionally, all the proceeds from this carnival went to help build an underground
playground and bomb shelter in the Israeli city of S'derot.
CULTURAL ARTS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Serial Boxes ‐ Come and Explore the Graphic Novel
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Lenore D. Naxon
Serial Boxes was an interdisciplinary, media and market driven initiative exploring the Graphic Novel
that appealed to new young audiences; successfully garnered local and national press; provided a fresh
look at Jewish identity through the lenses of prestigious yet unexpected sources. It brought new patrons
to our programs and changed the perception of young Jewish adults about the relevancy of the JCCSF to
their lives and cultural experience.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
Tucson JCC, Tucson, AZ
Sculpture Garden
President: Fran Katz
Executive Director: Kenneth Light
Chair: Jeff Timan
The new Sculpture Garden at the Tucson JCC features 30+ pieces in its permanent collection, and for the
next 10 months in a juried exhibition. Pieces were submitted internationally and from local artists, and
juried by Tucson Museum of Art Director Robert Knight. The TJCC Sculpture Garden is a wonderful
convergence of art in the beautiful desert setting, and encourages visitors to relax, converse, meditate
and contemplate. The sculptures are in various media including bronze, steel, marble, copper, and more.
Made possible through private support, and designed by a Tucson landscape architect, the Garden
incorporates existing turf, trees, and winding pavement into the design.
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
Tucson JCC, Tucson, AZ
Fabulous Faygeleh Film Festival
President: Fran Katz
Executive Director: Kenneth Light
Chair: Bob Nichol and Bob Polinsky
Tucson International Jewish Film Festival has included at least one LGBT film in the main festival
program. In 2009, when vetting films for the festival, the jury screened so many worthy films of LGBT
interest that the committee suggested a new program dedicated entirely to LGBT films. The first
“Fabulous Faygeleh Film Series” was held at the JCC in May, 2009. Three features and two shorts were
screened with 250+ participants. Funding from 2 grants allowed us to move into a more urban venue, in
order to help us reach more participants and allow us to bring in filmmakers to enhance the series.
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
Sabes JCC, St. Louis Park, MN
Arts and Bridges Project
President: Robin Neidorf
Executive Director: Stuart Wachs
Chair: Sara Rubinett
Arts & Bridges was a project celebrating of the power of art to overcome differences. The Interfaith
Bridging Initiative, the Iraqi American Reconciliation Project and the Sabes Jewish Community Center co‐
hosted two multi‐faith evening programs featuring engaging lectures, performances of music, song and
dance, and interactive workshops, pivoting around a pair of exhibits. The events attracted an unusually
diverse crowd, including Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Both evenings were well attended, and the
quality of the programming was exhilarating. There was a multidisciplinary approach to education and
entertainment weaving together the visual, literary, and performing arts in perfect harmony.
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando, Maitland, FL
KidzArt
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: Karen Duncan
The Roth JCC of Central FL KidzArt program introduced children to a true interactive cultural arts
experience that reflected how our school values self‐expression and creativity while promoting
imagination and individuality. This fundraiser used local artists, musicians, and photographers to work
interactively with our children allowing them to experience "the arts" in a meaningful way. Our children
expressed themselves through creating individual pieces of art, while at the same time working together
as a group to construct classroom masterpieces. In addition this program involved volunteers in a fun
and creative way. The end result was that this event not only supported the importance of the cultural
arts in a Jewish environment, but was a fun and unique family event that was able to raise money, too!
Programs and Services Awards Cultural arts – Gold Star
JCC at Milken, West Hills, CA
From Our Family Album ‐ An Interactive Journey Through 100 Years of Tel Aviv
President: Steven Rheuban
Executive Director: Paul Frishman
Chair: Paul Frishman
"From Our Family Album ‐ An Interactive Journey Through 100 Years of Tel Aviv" was a hands‐on,
interactive exhibit produced for all age children held at the JCC at Milken in Los Angeles, California from
September 12‐ October 14, 2009. This multi‐faceted project was developed to celebrate the Centennial
Anniversary of the "First Hebrew City". Participants explored this very important Israeli city in many
unique ways. The exhibit included the history, geography, sights, sounds, tastes and the overall spirit of
Tel Aviv. Experiences included a variety of activities, many unique photographs, poetry, hands‐on
interactive programs, archeological finds, artifacts, music, food, games, and more. The focus was on Tel
Aviv as the economic, cultural, and educational capital of Israel. The project was open to members,
scheduled groups, field trips, synagogues, churches, and all others interested in "experiencing Tel Aviv in
Los Angeles" There was a self‐guided, scavenger hunt developed to take the individuals from one area of
the program to the next which included The Beginnings of Tel Aviv ‐ The Shell Lottery, Building the First
Hebrew City, Architecture of the City, Ben Yehuda Cafe', a Photography Exhibit, a Historical Video and
more. The month‐long event was a strong community partnership project which involved: The JCC at
Milken, the Jewish Federation Valley Alliance, the Jewish Federation's Tel Aviv/Los Angeles Partnership
Program, MATI @ the JCC, the Finegood Art Gallery, the Israeli Leadership Council, the Israeli Division of
the Jewish Federation, the local Tzofim ‐ Israeli Scouts, the New Community Jewish High School, and all
area synagogues. In total, 200 individuals (including dignitaries) attended the Grand Opening &
Reception, and another 1,500 visited the exhibit during its stay in our Finegood Art Gallery.
DAY CAMP
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Day Camp – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Shavuot Experience
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Jared Powers
The Shavuot Experience offers a mystical, magical, meaningful experience where children will travel
through time with our ancestors; Climb our climbing wall to receive the Torah at the top of Mt. Sinai
with Moses; Cross the Red Sea on a canoe with Aaron; Make Torah covers with Sarah; Create dairy
delights with Leah; Storytelling with Ruth; Dance with Miriam; Experience the Harvest and Nature like a
true Israeli. Complete with "Sunrise" at Sinai: (Pre Camp Care ‐ 7:30 ‐ 9:00 am) and "Sunset" at Masada:
(After Camp Care ‐ 4:00 ‐ 6:00 pm) this program is a Torah‐Rocking Good Time!
Programs and Services Awards Day Camp – Gold Star
Sabes JCC, St. Louis Park, MN
Tikkun Olami
President: Robin Neidorf
Executive Director: Stuart Wachs
Chair: Sara Rubinett
In an effort to retain the interest of our older campers, we created Tikkun Olami, a program that
preserve the traditional day camp experience (swimming, friends, ruach) while adding an element of
community service to encourage volunteerism and provide these campers with a meaningful
experience. Campers learned about community needs and discovered that when helping others, you
often gain even more than you give. Through Tikkun Olami, campers coordinated a food and book drive,
planted a garden, wrote letters to soldiers and more. Thirteen campers participated and the program
was so successful, we're running it again in 2010.
Programs and Services Awards Day Camp – Gold Star
JCC of Stamford, Stamford, CT
O‐la‐mi: A whole new world
President: Brian Kriftcher
Executive Director: Gary Lipman
Chair: Sarah Evans
Over a period of years the Stamford JCC's summer day camp had trended down significantly, leading to
a serious drop in both participation and net income. Given the importance of a strong summer program
to the organization's year‐round vitality and fiscal health, the JCC challenged itself to rethink and re‐
vision all aspects of its camp. By leaving no stone unturned, they created a completely new summer
experience for the community's youth. The program was named O‐la‐mi (my world), and after only one
summer has increased Jewish awareness and fostered a renewed sense of personal connection to the
JCC by campers and their families.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Day Camp – Gold Star
Betty & Milton Katz JCC, Cherry Hill, NJ
Ruach Week
President: Glenn Fuhrman
Executive Director: Les Cohen
Chair: Aaron Greenberg
Camp is fun, but week 6 of Camp can be challenging to campers and staff. Adding a Ruach Week (Spirit
Week) component complete with theme days to Camp makes it more exciting and special. Adding a
tikkun olam component further enhances the week and enables campers and staff to perform mitzvot
and feel like they have made a difference in the world they live. By weaving Judaism and Jewish values
into our Camp program, we created a successful and popular program.
Programs and Services Awards Day Camp – Gold Star
Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando, Maitland, FL
Design Your Own Summer Camp
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: Julie Varkonyi
Design you own camp gives older campers the independence and empowerment that they are looking
for at a day camp, while parents enjoy sending their child to a Jewish environment. Campers will enjoy
the ability to choose their own schedule for the mornings with choices of sports, arts, and enrichment
courses such as Healthy Cooking, Blue Man Art, Basketball, Magic, or Yoga. The afternoons will be
complete with lunch, swimming, music, Israel culture, and hang time.
EARLY CHILDHOOD
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Early Childhood‐ Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Early Childhood Arts and Education
President: Michael Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Judy Sosin
The Indianapolis JCC Early Childhood Department has developed a multi‐disciplinary arts program that
introduces ECE students and families to the arts. The students have an arts program once each quarter
of the school year, September ‐ May. Each experience features a different art form: music, theater,
dance or visual art. Through the course of one school year, students will have a range of arts
experiences provided by experienced artists, musicians, and actors who are trained to connect with
young children.
FAMILY
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Family – Gold Star
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, IL
Baby & Toddler Expo
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Rabbi Shari Shamah
The Baby & Toddler Expo was created for expectant and young families that showcased 50 vendors from
leading retailers of the finest baby gear, fashions, toys, organic foods to leading experts and
practitioners in the medical, childhood safety and recreation fields. The Expo provided valuable
information and resources for parents. Activities included children’s characters, bicycle helmet checks, a
Diaper Derby and Toddler Trot. A Fire truck and Police car were there for children to climb aboard! More
than 700 were in attendance, many coming to the JCC for the first time, and the event raised $7500 for
the JCC.
Programs and Services Awards Family – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore, Owings Mills, MD
JCC Beyond The Borders
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Sharon Seigel
JCC Without Borders is an outreach initiative designed to reach people "where they are" and connect
them to others with whom they share common interests and lifestyle. In this way, the outreach program
provides a gateway to JCC programs and activities, and over time, can help these families discover a
more enduring way to stay connected to the Baltimore Jewish community. This program targets under‐
affiliated families who live outside the traditionally Jewish zip codes of the Greater Baltimore area. We
are changing the Jewish future by engaging families who might otherwise be lost to the organized
Jewish community.
Programs and Services Awards Family – Gold Star
JCC at Jack and Lee Rosen Southwest Orlando Campus, Orlando, FL
Grand Opening Celebration ‐ Grow With Me at the JCC
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: Bonnie Rayman
GROW WITH ME AT THE JCC! Mark your calendars, save these dates and hold your breath! You will be
blown away with the amazing 10 events we have planned for the JCC's Grand Opening Weeks! Sunday,
August 30 THE MAIN EVENT! A TASTE OF THE J (11am & nosh ‐ 4pm) EXPLORE WITH ME AT THE JCC!
Come explore all the programs and activities the JCC has to offer! Enjoy tastes and treats from a variety
of local restaurants; Shoot hoops with an NBA Pro; Check out the latest fitness equipment; Participate in
the HOTTEST group exercise classes; Get a sneak peak of Theatre South, our ONE‐OF‐A‐KIND Center for
the Arts; Be amazed as our streets are painted by local Artists; Bounce & play in our Outdoor Festival;
and tour our State‐Of‐The‐Art and culturally diverse Early Childhood Learning Center. The day will also
feature the official Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 12:30pm with the Rosen family. Monday, August 31
Bagels, Blocks and Babies (9:30‐11:00am) GIGGLE WITH ME AT THE JCC! Laugh and learn with your little
one you as you explore the JCC's Terrific Parent/Child Classes including: Baby Yoga, Baby Sign Language,
Tunes for Tots and Healthy Eating in the High Chair! Tuesday, September 1 Realtors Association
Luncheon (12‐2pm) NETWORK WITH ME AT THE JCC! Experience a personal introduction to our new
South Campus and get the real scoop as to why the JCC will fast become "the cornerstone" in this
community. Wednesday, September 2 Theatre South, A Center for the Arts Expo (2‐6pm) CREATE WITH
ME AT THE JCC! Theater, Music, Dance, Art....an interactive afternoon where all ages can sample the
arts, as the JCC unveils its new Theatre South ~ A Center for the Arts! Thursday, September 3 Dueling
Pianos Sing‐A‐Long (1pm‐3pm) SING WITH ME AT THE JCC! Find your voice and meet new friends as you
sing along with Nationally Acclaimed Dueling Piano musicians Mark & Clark. Sunday, September 6 Health
Fair & Green Market (10am‐3pm) GET FIT & GO GREEN WITH ME AT THE JCC! Discover a Healthier You
as you experience the fabulous health and fitness programs and services at the JCC. Tuesday, September
8 Teddy Bear Picnic (12‐3pm) DREAM WITH ME AT THE JCC! Build your own "stuffed buddy" as you
discover the fun of playing with a purpose. Wednesday, September 9 on The Catwalk (11am‐2pm) SHOP
WITH ME AT THE JCC! Join us for an afternoon of Glitz and Glam on the Catwalk featuring a fresh take on
fashion with a showcase of the hottest accessories from local shops & boutiques. Thursday, September
10 Poker for Peanuts (7pm till...) GO ALL IN WITH ME AT THE JCC! Pull up to the table for a low stakes,
high action Poker Tournament. Saturday, September 12 Club J: (7‐9:30pm)/ Club J After Dark (9pm‐
midnight) ROCK WITH ME AT THE JCC! Feel the beat and shake up the dance floor at the largest and
loudest under 18 house party in the Orlando area.
Programs and Services Awards Family – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Washington, Rockville, MD
Strut Your Mutt
President: Bernie Weisz
Executive Director: Michael Feinstein
Chair: Tracey E. Dorfmann
Strut your Mutt Day as a low barrier way for members and guests in our community to come to the
Center and meet new friends & nosh; both four footed and bipedal. The mere presence of dogs
facilitated conversation for participants. A raffle enticed people to leave their contact information.
Additionally we made sure that there were several other activities going on inside the building that day,
including a "Kangoo" aerobic class, which enable us to cross‐market. Staff gave facility tours as needed
since there were plenty of dog sitters on hand. We want people to find Jewish friends here through any
content.
FITNESS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Fitness – Gold Star
Worcester JCC, Worcester, MA
The Pink Program ‐ Getting Started Fitness Class for Breast Cancer Survivors
President: Micah Chase
Executive Director: Emily Holdstein
Chair: Emily Holdstein
The Pink Program provides a 12‐week Getting Started Fitness Program for breast cancer survivors. The
group classes are tailored to the individual survivors' needs to improve their quality of life. Survivors
experience appropriate physical exercise treatment. Specially trained instructors guide them in their
efforts toward improving their health and lowering the odds of breast cancer recurrence. By learning to
exercise together and having the opportunity to share the commonality of their experiences, the
individuals who participate in The Pink Program benefit emotionally as well as physically in the process.
Each participant has the opportunity to share stories as well as exercise time. It's a very supportive
environment in which to begin a new more active post‐treatment lifestyle.
Programs and Services Awards Fitness – Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Kids Triathlon
President: Michael Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Judy Sosin
133 children from all over the Indianapolis community and surrounding states earned a medal at the
Indianapolis Kids Triathlon. The young athletes, ages 7 through 14, came out to the JCC on a clear, sunny
morning to swim, bike and run. The thrill of the race was only surpassed by the sense of
accomplishment each child experienced as they crossed the finish line. All of the athletes wore a timing
chip around their ankle so that their true competitor was the clock. Parents, friends, JCC members and
triathlon sponsors lined the course to cheer on the young athletes. Every child was an inspiration for
everyone in attendance.
Programs and Services Awards Fitness – Gold Star
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, Tenafly, NJ
WELL Women's Enrichment for Longevity and Life
President: Robin Miller
Executive Director: Avi Lewinson
Chair: Sharon Kestenbaum
The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades is committed to enhancing the lives of its members and the community
at large. As the gatekeepers for their family's health and well being, women shape the medical, dietary,
nutritional and extracurricular practices for themselves as well as their children, spouses and aging
parents. This is the impetus for the series of WELL Health Symposiums (Women's Enrichment for
Longevity and Life)‐ a forum where women can ask questions and get answers from a variety of experts,
empowering them to make better‐informed decisions.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Fitness – Gold Star
Merage JCC of Orange County, Orange County, CA
OC Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and High School Scholar Athlete of the Year
President: Irving Chase
Executive Director: Daniel Bernstein
Chair: Dan Berzansky
The Orange County Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in conjunction with the Merage JCC of Orange County is
now prepping for the 2009‐10 programs. The event will see 3 new inductees added to the already
impressive group of athletes from the OC community. The three inductees represent some of the best
athletes the Orange County community has to offer with Olympic Champion Mitch Gaylord, World
Champion Rachel Wacholder, and a third inductee to be announced shortly. In addition to the induction
of the hall of fame athletes, the event will also honor two high school students, one male and one
female as Scholar Athletes of the Year. Any Jewish scholar‐athlete who lives in Orange County and is a
junior or senior in high school is eligible. Nominees are judged on academic and athletic achievements
as well as their commitment to community service.
Programs and Services Awards Fitness – Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
"Get to Know Your Fitness Center"
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Ali Helms
The fitness staff wanted to create an environment in the fitness center where we could raise the
awareness of our members on a variety of topics that are current in the fitness industry and would be of
interest to our members. We brainstormed the ideas for our monthly topics and all of our trainers
volunteered their time to conduct these monthly events. The goal was to attract and help those
members who might not be comfortable coming into the fitness center as a way to get them in and
develop a comfort level and relationship with our staff. It is much easier to come in for a planned
program with others than alone. They will be more likely to return to the fitness center after an event
now that they know the staff and other members.
GREENING SUSTAINABILITY
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Greening sustainability – Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
JCC Maccabi Games
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Jackie Lewis
One may not destroy fruit trees; indeed anything that is wasteful is forbidden. Maimonides "From a
Footprint to a Thumbprint" the JCCSF placed a high priority on hosting a green set of Games in 2009. All
Games participants were given Eco‐Usable stainless steel canteens which they filled with water at filling
stations (coolers) which were generously donated by the Coco‐Cola company. Landfill (garbage) was
reduced to 6% of all waste, with 94% of waste consisting of recycling or compost. Products purchased
were often made of recycled materials.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Greening sustainability – Gold Star
Harry and Rose Samson Family JCC, Milwaukee, IL
The JCC Green Initiative
President: Susan Strait
Executive Director: Mark Shapiro
Chair: Jody Hirsh
At the Milwaukee JCC we embarked on an All‐JCC “Green Initiative.” Originally a result of a staff
initiative finding a JCC‐wide theme, it linked with the ongoing JCC Values project. The linkage of the
Jewish Value of “Bal Tashchit”, “ Do Not Destroy/Waste”, and the contemporary value of Sustainability
was a project the JCC staff was enthusiastic about, resulting in increased recycling efforts, ongoing
classes about sustainability and Jewish tradition, brochures suggesting family projects, the creation of a
Jewish recycling logo, the sale of green recyclable JCC tote bags, and a series of colorful “Bal Tashchit”
posters featuring community members.
Programs and Services Awards Greening sustainability – Gold Star
JCC at Jack and Lee Rosen Southwest Orlando Campus, Orlando, FL
Health Fair & Green Market
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: Bonnie Rayman
Health Fair & Green Market ‐ GET FIT & GO GREEN WITH ME AT THE JCC! Discover a Healthier You as
you experience the fabulous health and fitness programs and services at the JCC. Stroll through an
incredible interactive fair focused on the JCC's mission of body, mind and spirit including: health
screenings, skin care, back health, dental care, mini‐massages, holistic and alternative medicine,
nutrition analysis and much more. Shop at our Green Market, featuring fresh herbs and plants, locally
grown and organic produce, artisan breads, environmentally‐friendly products, unusual crafts, working
artists, and live acoustic music provided by House of Blues.
Programs and Services Awards Greening sustainability – Gold Star
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
Preserving Summer in a Jar: Become a Locavore ‐ Learn How to Can the Harvest
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Penny Schumacher
Preserving Summer in a Jar: Become a Locavore ‐ Learn How to Can the Harvest is a two hour class that
focuses on small batch canning and preserving using the hot water bath method. Learn how to stretch
the bounties of the summer into the rest of the year. In the spirit of Tikkun Olam, we will learn the basic
pickling brines for dills, bread and butters, and beets as well as jam and salsa making. Taught by Mala
Vujnovic, who has been a professional chef for over 25 years as well as an avid gardener and canner.
Programs and Services Awards Greening sustainability – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Policy on Creating a Greener JCC
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
The Weinstein JCC's Greening Committee under the direction of the Operations Committee was
responsible for developing a Policy on Creating a Greener JCC. The committee decided that the policy
would address; behavior changes to support a Greener Building, Operational changes that support a
Greener Building and purchase guidelines for Green Products. Utilizing the knowledge and experience of
the committee members, information from on‐line searches and looking into what other JCCs may do, a
policy was developed and went through a revision and approval process. The policy has already
impacted the operations of the center.
INTERFAITH
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Interfaith – Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Interfaith Couples’ Trip to Israel
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Nathaniel Bergson‐Michelson
The JCCSF Interfaith Couples' Trip to Israel was developed in collaboration with the JCC Association
office in Jerusalem to offer interfaith/intercultural couples the opportunity to visit Israel and experience
contemporary Israeli life. Couples, with the guidance of experienced educators and professionals,
explored sites sacred to both Judaism and Christianity, and through hands‐on experiences and thought‐
provoking discussions, developed a greater understanding of the history and cultures of Israel. The trip
offered participants unique shared experiences both before departure and in Israel which bonded them
as a group, reinforced partnerships and strengthened individual connections to Israel, Judaism and
Jewish life.
INTERGENERATIONAL
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Intergenerational – Gold Star
JCC Metrowest, West Orange, NJ
Tuesday Shoppers
President: Stephen Seiden
Executive Director: Alan Feldman
Chairs: Amy Sigona, Gina Goldman, and Sharon Gordon
Club JCC Tuesdays is a program for young adults with special needs that take place from 9:00am‐
2:00pm. As part of the programming for Club JCC Tuesdays, the participants, known as the "Tuesday
Shoppers" spend their morning out in the community shopping for the Margulies Senior Center, also
housed at JCC MetroWest. Each week they purchase food and program supplies and then deliver the
purchases back to the eagerly awaiting members of the Senior Center. Through this program, the young
adults with special needs learn critical life skills including community integration, money management,
grocery shopping and more. While at the same time, they have an opportunity to volunteer for older
adults. This helps to boost their self esteem and also has created warm and lasting relationships
between the young adults and the seniors. For the seniors, they have learned patience and tolerance for
those who are different.
Programs and Services Awards Intergenerational – Gold Star
Betty & Milton Katz JCC, Cherry Hill, NJ
Weekly Intergenerational Interaction
President: Glenn Fuhrman
Executive Director: Les Cohen
Chair: Gail Cohen
We are very proud of this innovative, fun filled, intergenerational program involving our Transitional
Kindergarten program and seniors who reside at the Saltzman House, a Federation sponsored
residential setting. Originally designed by head teacher, Cindy Pickus, the children walk to the nearby
Saltzman House every Wednesday for an hour visit. During their visit, children are paired with seniors...
they share experiences from the week, read books together, and illustrate what they read. A special
snack is enjoyed following these activities. The children have helped to decorate a Sukkah, performed a
Purim Schpiel, and celebrate Hanukkah with hand‐made gifts and candle lighting. At the end of each visit
the children look forward to helping the residents feed the fish in the large aquarium. The children
always bring smiles (and sometimes tears) to their senior "partners". Very often, the children see "their
Saltzman" at the JCC and run to get hugs. These bonds create long lasting, loving and caring
relationships.
Programs and Services Awards Intergenerational – Gold Star
Jewish Community Association of Austin, Austin, TX
Pen Pals Program
President: Dana Baruch
Executive Director: Shelly Prant
Chair: Lisa Cohen Quay, LMSW, MPA
The Pen Pals Program builds intergenerational community through shared lunches with guided
discussions/oral interviews as well as through biweekly letter‐writing during the entire school year. It
utilizes college students to help connect Jewish seniors to Jewish 4th graders in a year‐long relationship
of letter‐writing, oral history, and shared lunches at the Austin Jewish Community Center.
MUSIC
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Music – Gold Star
Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando, Maitland, FL
JCC IDOL
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: David Wayne
Hollywood comes to Orlando! Combining the talented group of VISIONS with a competition for the stars
of tomorrow, the JCC of Greater Orlando conducted JCC IDOL in November 2008. The IDOL competition,
which included auditions and call backs, was open to amateur singers ages 6 to seniors; the winner
received $1000 and sang the national anthem at an Orlando Magic basketball game. VISIONS is a trio of
young woman who grew up in Orlando and participated in the JCC's preschool, summer camp, and
theater programs.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Music – Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
Partnership in Music with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra (JSO)
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Theresa Levy
We had great success introducing the symphony to our four and five year old preschoolers. They
immersed themselves in the music and drama of it. The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra visited our
classrooms several times and in between visits the curriculum covered math, science, art, literacy and
drama, all related to the symphony orchestra. We also covered “behind the scenes” at the symphony
and our children got a chance to solve problems as they set up for both scheduled and impromptu
concerts. Children, parents, teachers and musicians all agreed that the curriculum was filled with hands
on, inspiring, and developmentally appropriate activities.
OTHER‐CATEGORIES WE DIDN’T INCLUDE
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Other‐identify/create a category that we didn't include
– Gold Star
92nd Street Y, New York, NY
Resource Center for Jewish Diversity
President: Thomas Kaplan
Executive Director: Sol Adler
Chair: Martin Maskowitz
The 92Y Resource Center for Jewish Diversity promotes greater awareness and inclusiveness of the
ethnic, racial and cultural diversity of the Jewish community in the greater New York metropolitan area.
Developed in partnership with UJA‐Federation of New York, the Resource Center strives to: 1) Empower
diverse, grass roots community groups to effectively serve their communities and play a more visible
role in the broader Jewish community 2) Assist established Jewish organizations in including greater
diversity in their programming and constituencies 3) Educate the broader community about its diversity,
enriching American Jews' understanding of their identity and community.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Other‐identify/create a category that we didn't include
– Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
Facilities Management
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Cal Barker
Facility Corrective Maintenance (CM) and Preventative Maintenance (PM) Tracking ‐ Low cost or no cost
systems (some using existing assets) are available for implementing facility Corrective and Preventative
Maintenance tracking. These include the use of Microsoft Office products for tracking Corrective
Maintenance and C‐Works Computerized Maintenance Management System for tracking Preventative
Maintenance.
Programs and Services Awards Other‐identify/create a category that we didn't include
– Gold Star
Valley of the Sun JCC, Scottsdale, AZ
Detroit Reunion
President: David Goldman
Executive Director: Steven Rosenberg
Chair: Suzanne Swift
The Valley of the Sun JCC created a reunion type program for individuals from the Detroit area. This
program was geared towards full and part‐time residents of the Greater Phoenix area as a way to
engage them at the JCC. The agenda included a Detroit area speaker, memorabilia and food and
provided a forum for individuals to meet or reconnect with others from their hometown. The program
includes a number of follow up activities to continue to reinforce their relationships with each other and
the JCC.
Programs and Services Awards Other‐identify/create a category that we didn't include
– Gold Star
Addison‐Penzak JCC of Silicon Valley, Los Gatos, CA
Jews Rock Experience
President: Virginia Hess
Executive Director: Hal Bordy
Chairs: Lisa Ceile and Jason Goldstein
The Jews Rock Experience spanned across departments and generations. Starting with an art exhibit and
moving into a fall theme. It included the teen dance, member mixer, coloring contest, concert featuring
Sheldon Low, Jews Rock music video montage with facts, Guitar Hero tournament, a Jews Rock talk,
Jews Rock postcards and even a Jews Rock Cafe Makeover. The events sparked community singing,
memories, dancing, and laughter. They also lent themselves to educational opportunities and thoughtful
discussion of Judaism, musical influence and its impact on the larger society. The programs covered a
period of two months and hopefully its affect will last much longer.
OUTREACH
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
NJ Y Camps, Fairfield, NJ
Expansion of Services to the Orthodox Community
President: Andrew Jacobs
Executive Director: Leonard Robinson
Chair: Leonard Robinson
Camp Shoshanim is an overnight camp designed to serve the needs of girls within the Orthodox
community. The high level program that was provided infused Jewish Orthodox core values and beliefs
into a day filled with sports, arts, sciences, aquatics, dramatic arts, daily learning and Chesed activities.
At the same time, our flexible, affinity‐ driven schedule empowered the girls to pursue their own
interests and make their own choices. The superior level of instruction and availability of program
variety and excellence which is a hallmark of NJY Camps is now available in an all girls’ Orthodox Jewish
environment.
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
Sabes JCC, St. Louis Park, MN
Whole Health Plan
President: Robin Neidorf
Executive Director: Stuart Wachs
Chair: Sara Rubinett
A group of staff members brainstormed creative ideas on how to better serve those impacted by the
economic downturn while creating awareness of the Center and all that we do here. The resulting idea
was the Whole Health Plan, a "pay‐what‐you‐can" membership that grants anyone from the general
public who is recently unemployed full membership privileges, plus free or low‐cost opportunities for
cultural, social and vocational enrichment. The first of its kind, the WHP collaborated with local Jewish
agencies to provide counseling and career services in addition to offering yoga, classes and theatre
performances without requiring financial assistance documentation.
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
92nd Street Y, New York, NY
Israeliness
President: Thomas Kaplan
Executive Director: Sol Adler
Chair: Martin Maskowitz
Israeliness is a unique, 100% Israeli‐style Sunday family experience. Moms, Dads and kids will be fully
immersed in Hebrew and contemporary Israeli culture, while enjoying an outstanding range of activities
including music, storytelling, arts and crafts, Jewish holiday celebrations, special events, the 92nd Street
Y's spectacular GymMaze and so much more. Israeliness provides an opportunity and place where
families can celebrate and engage in activities, programs and experiences which help transfer Israeli and
Jewish culture, traditions and identity to the entire family and especially children growing up outside of
Israel.
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
Washington District of Columbia Jewish Community Center, Washington, DC
You Had Me at Shalom: An Evening of Same‐Sex Jewish Speed Dating
President: Robert Tracy
Executive Director: Arna Meyer Mickelson
Chair: Justin Lerner
You Had Me at Shalom(YHMAS) was Washington DC's first‐ever same‐sex Jewish speed dating event
presented by the Kurlander Program for Gay & Lesbian Outreach and Engagement (GLOE) at the
Washington DCJCC. Based on Keshet's (keshetonline.org) popular "Quick Dates" program, YHMAS was a
sold‐out evening of 126 LGBTQ people connecting with one another on eight "8 minute dates" to find
friendship and more. Regardless of how many people found true love that evening, LGBTQ Jews in DC
formed new friendships and found a welcoming Jewish space known as the Washington DCJCC.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
Jewish Community Association of Austin, Austin, TX
Neighborhood Nosh Program
President: Dana Baruch
Executive Director: Shelly Prant
Chair: Lisa Apfelberg
The Neighborhood Noshes are part of a series of Jewish Community Association of Austin sponsored
events that will invite neighbors to build strong ties where they live, proving that the Central Texas
Jewish Community exists wherever Jewish families come together. Neighborhood Noshes will come to
you, wherever you may live in Central Texas, throughout the year.
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
Mayerson JCC, Cincinnati, OH
ShalomPhone
President: Howard Schwartz
Executive Director: Jeff Baden
Chair: Tsipora Gottlieb
The ShalomPhone program is a free volunteer service that provides friendly telephone calls to seniors
age 60+. The program works to eliminate some of the concerns facing those who are isolated in our
community, allowing them to remain independent. ShalomPhone uses trained senior adult volunteers to
make regularly scheduled calls to seniors who live alone. The calls are for both safety and socialization,
they also allow our seniors to stay independent and in touch.
Programs and Services Awards Outreach – Gold Star
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, Tenafly, NJ
Israeli Business Circle
President: Robin Miller
Executive Director: Avi Lewinson
Chair: Tammy Levy
The Israeli Business Circle at the JCC is a distinctive forum that provides Israeli professionals with a
unique opportunity to socialize and network on a regular basis, to exchange thoughts and ideas about
Israel and business related issues. Each meeting features a keynote speaker who serves as a prominent
figure in his/her respective industry. The presentations are typically in Hebrew, followed by a Q&A
session and an open discussion. A cocktail networking reception is held prior to the presentation. The
upscale atmosphere at these events was created to attract the high caliber of participants and guest
speakers.
RESIDENT CAMPS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Resident Camp – Gold Star
Mandel JCC of Cleveland, Beachwood, OH
Camp Wise University ‐ Camp As a Jewish Identity‐Building Experience (course for credit)
President: Jeanne Tobin
Executive Director: Michael Hyman
Chair: Jodi Sperling
Think Jewish summer camp and one thinks of informal Jewish education. Think "university" and one
thinks of "formal" education. The two worlds seem far apart. Yet, if you talk to any of the twelve Camp
Wise staff who participated in what they named "Camp Wise University," you'll see the blending of
these two worlds makes perfect sense. For eight weeks, members of C.W. University explored and
studied their own Jewish identities, Jewish education, and Jewish texts pertaining to such camp issues as
community, friendship, and property ownership among campers. A cooperative venture of Camp Wise,
the Melton Center of Ohio State University, and the Laura and Alvin Siegal College of Judaic Studies,
participants earned three academic credits for the course, "Camp as a Jewish‐Identity Building
Experience," paid for generously through a one‐time grant of Siegal College's Mahar project. "As
teachers it is not often that we have an opportunity to situate learning in the real, ongoing, and fluid
lives of learners and have an immediate effect on ways in which they view their daily situations," says
Dr. David Stein, of The Ohio State University. One of the participants noted in the final debrief, "I was
skeptical at first...where would we find time in the 24/7 environment of camp to study and dialogue?
What I found was the opposite. I looked forward to our weekly meetings, and the course helped me put
the Jewish work of camp into focus." The opportunity to earn college credit while at camp is something
Camp Wise had been researching, given that the camp staff often have to take summers off due to
academic responsibilities. "We look for innovative learning opportunities for our staff while they're at
camp, and this partnership opened the door to finally offer a course for credit," notes Camp Director
Jodi Sperling. "The course allowed the staff to see Jewish camping through a completely new lens, and
gave them the language to express the impact camp has had on their own Jewish journey," adds
Sperling. "It helped them to reflect thoughtfully on the creation of an immersive Jewish space, and their
role in creating that for their campers. It made camp more than just "camp;" it validated ... that Jewish
overnight camp is a crucial component of the Jewish identity development of their campers." The
application of the Jewish learning to everyday life created a powerful learning experience. "This was my
first time studying Talmud," noted one of the counselors. "It was really cool, especially because it
related to real camp dilemmas."
SPECIAL NEEDS
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Special needs – Gold Star
Soloway JCC, Ottawa, ON
Aquatic Adventures for Autistic Children/Lessons for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired
President: Arnie Vered
Executive Director: Barry Sohn
Chair: Robin Jordan
The Soloway JCC has created a special needs aquatics program for children who are deaf and hearing
impaired using American Sign Language to teach them to swim and be water smart. We also offer
Aquatics Adventures for Autistic Children, a parented program, to introduce these children to the pool
and water safety.
Programs and Services Awards Special needs – Gold Star
Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
Teen Skills
President: Michael Staenberg
Executive Director: Lynn Wittels
Chair: David Weiner
Teen Skills is a prevocational summer program for 16 to 20 year olds with developmental disabilities
that the St. Louis JCC initiated in the summer of 2009. The teens learned vocational skills by working
with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the St. Louis Botanical Gardens, and the St. Louis
Artists' Guild. The teens also had a great time at the JCC exploring nature, art, cooking, fitness, sports,
and swimming. The group contributed over 1000 hours of volunteer time to the St. Louis community.
Programs and Services Awards Special needs – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
Inclusive Day Camp Programs for Children with Autism
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Jared Powers
The MJCCA’s inclusionary day camps provide opportunities for children with Autism to participate in
camp activities alongside their typical peers. Modifications and support are provided when necessary to
suit their needs and abilities. The MJCCA removes barriers by hiring qualified facilitators to assist these
children while at camp so their parents only have to pay the regular camp fee. MJCCA staff members
help ensure that campers with Autism do not regress during the summer months and lose the progress
they made with their therapists during the school year. The program also provides respite for parents
during the summer months.
Programs and Services Awards Special needs – Gold Star
Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills, NY
BOOST!
President: Eric Donnenfeld
Executive Director: Susan Bender
Chair: Michelle Laser
The “BOOST !” program at Sid Jacobson JCC, has been based on the HAVE DREAMS program in Chicago,
(which was created using the TEACCH method of working with individuals with ASD,) provides highly
structured programming for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Each class is comprised of a
series of activities designed to develop critical social skills, and provides remediation in skill deficits
commonly found in those with autism. Structured groups offer sequenced activities and visual support
materials to teach independent living, personal and community safety, leisure and recreational skills,
self care skills, as well as communication skills that can lead to greater self‐sufficiency. Teaching
strategies, curriculum and materials are designed based on how individuals with autism learn and
process information. Group activities and thematic units are designed to be fun, but careful task
analysis, (i.e.‐breaking down socialization and communication exchanges into measured, sequenced
steps and building in independent skill behaviors,) informs the design and presentation of all units of
learning and activities.”The BOOST!” program seeks to address the needs of teens and young adults,
with respect to their need for quality programs addressing socialization skills and beneficial recreational
experiences within a community setting. Incorporated into the design of BOOST! is ongoing training for
professionals in conjunction with the professionals from HAVE DREAMS in Chicago, as well as peer
support between Sid Jacobson JCC, the New York Center for Autism and the two other New York UJA‐
Federation funded community centers involved in the project. In turn, we at Sid Jacobson JCC plan to
train our other staff to learn the BOOST! evidence based practice methods to incorporate into varied
special needs programs throughout the agency. Additionally, BOOST! provides support for families,
community education and awareness, internships for college and graduate school students and a social
buddy/volunteer program. We have already had two extremely high functioning teens, who were
graduates from other special needs programs we had run, volunteer as social buddies in our BOOST!
teen’s groups and they have done an incredible job! Currently, we are serving seven teens/young adults
ranging in age from 16 years old to 22 years old in “BIG BOOST !” We also serve 5 children, ages 7‐10
years of age, in “LITTLE BOOST!” Each BOOST! program currently only meets one day per week, due to
the high cost of the program, which limited families abilities to afford a twice per week program (based
on the original model,) to provide maximum benefit to its participants.
Programs and Services Awards Special needs – Gold Star
Weinstein JCC, Richmond, VA
Shadow Services and Training
President: Earl Ferguson
Executive Director: Jordan Shenker
Chair: Scott Katz
The Weinstein JCC pre‐school program is recognized in the community as being innovative in providing
an inclusive experience for children with special needs. However, over the years we have had children
that couldn't benefit because without assistance they could not be successful in the classroom. We
knew that there was a need to help families find shadows. We also knew it would be hard to find
shadows that were already trained so we decided to help families find child care providers that we could
train to be shadows. From this decision, we developed a training program and training manual.
SPIRITUALITY
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Spirituality – Gold Star
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
Spiritual Autobiography
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Rabbi Sharon Stiefel
A six‐week course on creating spiritual autobiographies allows participants to investigate their own lives
and make connections with journeys that have impacted their lives. The program focuses on spirituality
through a Jewish lens. Participants consider the momentous and ordinary events that have impacted
their lives and share them with others. The class examines how powerful experiences shape
fundamental beliefs. Careful reading of Torah text and contemporary Jewish autobiography, writing
exercises and drawing are used to enable class members to put their personal spiritual experiences into
a wider Jewish context and create their own spiritual autobiography.
SPORTS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Sports – Gold Star
Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA
SOAR Tennis for Youth with Developmental Disabilities
President: Sherie Gumer
Executive Director: Michael Wise
Chair: Amy Jones
The SOAR program at the MJCCA is a sports program created exclusively for children and young adults
with developmental disabilities. The SOAR Program provides instruction in sports and offers age‐
appropriate teams for exciting group play. This fun and active program is guided by experienced
volunteer coaches who emphasize team play, sportsmanship, and coordination skills. Skills are taught
and enhanced during practice sessions, and teams are incorporated into MJCCA's children’s' leagues.
Fees include practices, matches, and equipment.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Sports – Gold Star
Jewish Community Association of Austin, Austin, TX
J‐mazing Race
President: Dana Baruch
Executive Director: Shelly Prant
Chair: Jen Reed
THE J‐MAZING RACE! A decathlon of mind‐blowing, rip‐roaring, & spine‐tingling team challenges! Teams
of four complete ten team challenges as quickly as they can, then run for the finish line. First team to
finish wins! All teams start the race from the starting line. Each challenge requires all 4 team members’
participation. Challenges included, Obstacle Course, Relay Race, Geocaching, Water Balloon Launch, Disc
Golf, Basketball Shoot‐Out, Keep It Up (volleyball), Ropes Course, Austin Trivia, 300 Yards(football).
When a team completes a challenge, they receive a token from the official at that particular challenge.
Teams must have all 10 tokens before they head to the finish line. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place teams
include gift cards to Whole Earth Provision Co., complimentary personal training session from a JCC
trainer, sports gear and tickets to a local semi‐pro basketball game, and more. Our sponsors donated
pizza and beverages for the after party and awards presentation.
TEENS
INNOVATION AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
Dave and Mary Alper JCC, Miami, FL
Fit 4 Life
President: William Grossman
Executive Director: Edward Rosen
Chair: Rabbi Jeffrey L. Falick
This 15‐week long obesity prevention program is designed for overweight adolescents and will provide
teens with the necessary training, nutritional knowledge and behavior modification that they need in
order to lead a healthy life and prevent adult obesity. The youth participants will spend three hours a
week training with a certified professional and one hour each week learning about nutrition, food
preparation, healthy eating and other related topics. After completion of this program the teens will see
improvements in physical fitness, self‐esteem as related to body satisfaction and nutritional knowledge
as measured in their pre‐ and post‐test scores.
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
JCC of Houston, Houston, TX
J‐Serve 2009
President: Dan Steiner
Executive Director: Jerry Wische
Chair: Eric Bishop
J‐Serve Houston 2009 "Embraced the Challenge", where teens buddied up with children with special
needs to participate in an arts festival and sports carnival while buddying up with children with special
needs. The activities were planned and organized by a 12 member Teen council who had sub‐committee
members working under them. The arts activities included a musical petting zoo, a dance and
movement experience, and a hands‐on crafts project. The Sports carnival included sport events
including soccer, basketball, and hockey, inflatable rides, and game booths. In addition the teens
participated in several activities which educated them about disabilities.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
York JCC, York, PA
Get Real Diversity Program
President: Neal Friedman
Executive Director: Randy Freedman
Chair: Susan Attig
Get Real is a powerful, multi‐media experience that shapes the culture of high schools by empowering
students to create the change they want to see in their school. Students participate in activities, games,
dialogues, and personal reflection exercises that promote a positive sense of worth, respect for self and
others, and foster empathy for the impact of hateful words and actions. Students identify their biases
and receive practical strategies for taking action on them. Get Real helps create safer, more accepting
schools where all students feel safe, welcomed, valued, celebrated, and respected, preparing them for
life in a diverse society.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
JCC of Central NJ, Scotch Plains, NJ
Project A.L.I.V.E.
President: Scott Lazar
Executive Director: Barak Hermann
Chair: Mallory Saks
Project A.L.I.V.E. stands for alliance, leadership, involvement, volunteerism, and energy. This program
brings together nine high school freshmen from the Jewish Community of Central NJ and nine high
school freshmen from the "I Have a Dream" program at Plainfield High School. These students work
together, forming connections by participating in programs that enhance their awareness of being
adolescents in their respective communities. While these are neighboring communities, they can appear
far apart in terms of socio‐economic lifestyles. Utilizing a variety of programs, the teens learn and share
with each other topics such as peer pressure, negative influences, racism, and anti‐Semitism. These
teens have found a "common ground" where they have established mutual trust, developed leadership
skills, and planned and executed an annual day of community service engaging their peers every year
called "Come ALIVE in the Community."
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
JCCNV Dance Company
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Alicia Ronquillo
The JCCNV Dance Company is a group of dancers aged 12‐18 who aspire to more than just a dance
student. They want to influence their community and fellow dancers through performance, outstanding
academics, and educational support. All dancers must audition in order to participate in the program as
well as carry a passing grade point average in school. Each company member once accepted practices a
minimum of 4hr a week and some up to 7hr. They learn different dance styles such as ballet, modern,
jazz, tap and hip hop as well as performance techniques to be put to the test on stage! The Program also
hopes to establish an exchange program with our sister city in Israel, Beit Shemesh. This exchange will
conclude with students and teacher sharing the art of dance through trips to the US as well as Israel.
Both Israeli and American dance students will be able to share their experiences with dance as well as
learn new ones.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
JCC of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Wildergirls
President: Susan Diamond
Executive Director: Judy Edelson
Chair: Nathaniel Bergson‐Michelson
For Wildergirls, the wilderness is Girl Country! This six‐day, staff specialist‐led outdoor adventure is an
experience that middle school girls never forget. Young women connect with nature and one another as
they backpack into California's beautiful backcountry, swim mountain streams and sleep under the stars.
No prior camping experience is necessary ‐‐ participants all learn trail and first‐aid skills, carry their own
gear, help prepare their own meals and take care of each other. In this nurturing and empowering
program, girls learn survival skills, environmental lessons and leadership ‐‐ and discover the importance
of their values and their friendships.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando, Maitland, FL
SuperSweet Mitzvah Expo
President: Daniel Coultoff
Executive Director: David Wayne
Chair: Julie Varkonyi
The Super Sweet Mitzvah Expo can be comprised of as little or as many vendors as you would like for a
spectacular program featuring venues, caterers, entertainment, music, tutoring, invitations, planners,
transportation, decor, photographers, videographers and community service projects! This program has
no expenses attached, because every item (advertising, printing, tables/chairs) was traded for a space at
the Expo.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
Edith & Carl Marks JCH of Bensonhurst, Brooklyn NY
Camp B'Yachad
President: Jonathan Gold
Executive Director: Howard Wasserman
Chair: Gelena Blishteyn
B'Yachad initiative led by the Marks JCH of Bensonhurst and Jewish Agency for Israel is the first
overnight camp designed to engage 100 Russian immigrant teens in search of their individual Jewish
identity and heritage and their connection to the wider notion of Jewish people hood and community. In
addition this interactive and unique camp experience is developed by 15 college students who spend
nearly half a year training and creating programming for the youth. Camp B'Yachad provides an
invaluable week‐long overnight camping experience for Russian immigrant teens, with intense and
exciting Informal Jewish Educational, Israel programs, and Leadership Development programs. While,
Machon B'Yachad, involves college students in serious Informal Jewish Educational, Israel, and Group
Work‐training. Both, teens and college students participate in year‐long follow‐up programs through
community service and cultural arts. The B'Yachad Initiative is a living example of the JCC Movement to
sustain and continue building Jewish Community and to provide teens with a powerful experience of
their own Jewish journeys.
Programs and Services Awards Teens – Gold Star
JCC of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
JCC Teen House
President: Michael Rubin
Executive Director: Ira Jaffee
Chair: Judy Sosin
The JCC Teen House is just that ‐ a house separate and apart from the JCC which serves as a resource
center for high school youth of all faiths and backgrounds for socialization, education and community
engagement. It is the central location for organized teen programs of the JCC and other youth
organizations. The Teen House is run by teens, for teens, through teen committees. The Teen House
provides real life opportunities to govern the house and select the programming with the help and
supervision of trained JCC professionals. Engaging teens in the JCC Teen House has helped to build a
strong relationship with the population that will become the JCC's future members, volunteers and
supporters.
THEATER
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Theater – Gold Star
JCC of the Greater St. Paul Area, St. Paul, MN
Theater Collaboration: The Last Cyclist
President: Maggie Madden
Executive Director: Dori Denelle
Chair: Jeffrey Richman
The St. Paul JCC partnered with Lex‐Ham Community Theater to present "The Last Cyclist", a play
written in The Resienstadt by Karel Svenk in 1943 for performance in one of the camp's clandestine
theaters. "The Last Cyclist" was a daring absurdist allegory seen by many of the Jews imprisoned there
during open rehearsals. This revival, cast from community volunteers, became the focal point for
Holocaust education through satellite programs a University of Minnesota scholar, the
playwright/adapter who traveled to support the production, and survivors in our community.
Programs and Services Awards Theater – Gold Star
Michael‐Ann Russell JCC, North Miami Beach, FL
Social Action in the Theatre
President: Jeffrey Scheck
Executive Director: Gary Bomzer
Chair: David Surowitz
The Michael‐Ann Russell Jewish Community Center took great pride in its J‐CAT production of "Women's
Minyan." It communicated that the stage is not just being utilized for shows that may be viewed by
some as a source of entertainment, but one that is prepared to tackle difficult and sensitive subject
matter. The production brought to light, the issue of domestic abuse and prided itself that it secured a
total of 18 supporting and participating organizations...each of whom recognized the seriousness of
domestic abuse and the need to bring it into a public forum.
VOLUNTEERS
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Volunteers – Gold Star
JCC of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA
JCCNV Volunteer Corps
President: Jean Gurman
Executive Director: Eric Koehler
Chair: Carla Rosenfeld
The JCCNV Volunteer Corps is an expansion, formalization and consolidation of volunteer efforts of the
JCCNV. After accumulating a database of over 400 JCC Maccabi ArtsFest volunteers we wanted to keep
these people involved. A chair & vice chair were selected & formal trainings were held. A committee was
selected to create a mission statement; revise the volunteer guidelines; promote & recruit the Volunteer
Corps; look for opportunities for JCC volunteers in the general community, conduct general training for
volunteers; and search for potential donors to help support the program for such items as awards and
thank you event. At a JCCNV staff meeting the value of utilizing and training these volunteers was
emphasized and the importance of their involvement in our center was stressed.
WELLNESS
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Wellness – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
HEROES (Healthy Eating Routines and Optimal Exercising Styles)
President: Meryl Ainsman
Executive Director: Brian Schreiber
Chair: Marsha Lee Mullen
Through discussion and activities, the JCC’s HEROES Youth Wellness program encourages young people
with their parents to increase their activity levels, change eating behaviors, decrease screen time and
have a healthier lifestyle.
Programs and Services Awards Wellness – Gold Star
Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
Girls Got Game!
President: Michael Staenberg
Executive Director: Lynn Wittels
Chair: Rabbi Brad Horwitz
The St. Louis JCC and Nishmah: The St. Louis Jewish Women's Project partnered to host Girls Got Game!
The program was offered to girls in 1st‐5th grade and their mothers. The afternoon focused on the
importance of being active and caring for yourself both physically & intellectually. Girls were engaged in
a variety of fitness activities and learned about bone/skeletal health or heart rate activates. They also
made a healthy snack. Mothers had a workshop led by a certified nutritionist addressing proper
nutrition and self‐esteem for girls. They also participated in a "fitness sampler" class.
Programs and Services Awards Wellness – Gold Star
Jewish Community Center of Rockland County, West Nyack, NY
Women's Health & Wellness Symposium
President: Joel Zbar
Executive Director: David Kirschtel
Chair: Joshua Krakoff
Quality health care is at the heart of JCC Rockland's Annual Women’s Health & Wellness Symposium.
Women often place their family above their own needs and requirements. In designing and creating this
symposium, we took into consideration that health is related to our bodies, our mind and also our spirit.
We invited community organizations to participate, as well as hosting onsite testing for concerns ranging
from hearing to blood pressure. Over 250 women attended this event and we are encouraged to host
our 2nd symposium with a deeper understanding of women’s health care needs, committing ourselves
to educating, sharing and learning.
YOUTH/SCHOOL/ AGE
EXEMPLARY AWARDS
Programs and Services Awards Youth/school/age – Gold Star
Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville, FL
International Tour
President: David Miller
Executive Director: Myron Flagler
Chair: Betsy Miller
International Tour ‐ This is a series of classes which enable our youth (K‐5) to learn about different
cultures from around the world through hands‐on activities, crafts, games, informational videos, dancing
and food. We highlight a different country/region each week. For identity purposes, we learn about
children of that culture in particular. We prepare and eat food from that country/region. For example,
on one of the evenings, we visited Israel. We prepared Matzo Ball soup, danced the Hora to Israeli music
and made Star of David crafts. We started this program in February of 2009 and the participation grows
with each new session. The intent of this program is to educate our youth on how others live around the
world. By having fun activities and good food we make a lasting impression on the children who don't
realize they are getting a social studies lesson as well. Parents love not having to answer the continuous
question of "what's for dinner?" at least for one night of the week. Another goal is to provide our
parents with the opportunity to utilize other programs in our facility by taking simultaneous adult
classes or working out in the fitness area
Programs and Services Awards Youth/school/age – Gold Star
Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center, Charlotte, NC
J‐Tribes
President: Larry Schwartz
Executive Director: Philip Berman
Chair: Mitch Ormand
The J‐Tribes is a father/child program designed to foster relationships between fathers and their
children. We know that you take your role as a father seriously. This program will give you the
opportunity to further develop a positive relationship with your son or daughter through activities that
are fun, yet meaningful. You will do more together to strengthen the bond between you. The
experiences and the time that you share will deepen connections to Judaism, family and community
over time. Fathers and their children will be paired with other father/children in "tribes" in up to 12
pairs.
Programs and Services Awards Youth/school/age – Gold Star
Rose and Max Rady JCC, Winnipeg, MB
Strictly Teens & Tweens
President: Morley Hoffman
Executive Director: Gayle Waxman
Chair: Tamar Barr
The Rady JCC's Strictly Teens and Tweens initiative is an ongoing program targeted at youth in grades
five & six and seven & eight that includes a combination of social, recreational, wellness and cultural
activities. Programs take place on Saturday nights at the Rady JCC during off‐hours. It provides
opportunities for socialization and integration by offering innovative, diverse and fun programs in a
Jewish milieu and attracting Jewish youth from all affiliations. This age group is an ideal time to foster
identification with the Jewish community through shared experiences because social groupings are not
as defined as they are for teenagers. Parents are also looking for social activities for youth that are well
supervised and promote affiliation with the community.
Programs and Services Awards Youth/school/age – Gold Star
JCC of Greater Baltimore ‐ Park Heights Branch, Baltimore, MD
Community Partnerships
President: Eric Nislow
Executive Director: Louis Sapolsky
Chair: Shira Ocken
The Park Heights JCC of Greater Baltimore is located in a neighborhood that is saturated by Traditional
Orthodox families. By connecting with other Orthodox organizations in the community that have
existing followers, the JCC was able to showcase its facility, attract new members, offer resources and
provide quality programs to organizations that otherwise would not have access to such services or
facilities. The JCC is able to be kept up to date on needs and issues in the Orthodox community and
continue to improve services for JCC members, and community members as a whole. These
collaborations have brought hundreds of new families to the JCC and have helped create a sense of
community within the Orthodox and secular Jewish communities in the Baltimore area.