In the last few weeks, I’ve spoken to community members who have shared that their philanthropy has shifted since October 7 towards combating antisemitism and supporting Israel. This certainly makes sense given the war in Israel and Gaza and the uptick in antisemitism in our own country. In each conversation, I thanked them for supporting these critical issues facing the Jewish community. And then in my next sentence, I urged them to consider how the Jewish community will fight antisemitism and hate in the long run. I believe that I have one answer-- organizations that serve individuals of all backgrounds together in an inclusive and respectful community, like the Bender JCC.
If you stand in the lobby of the JCC long enough, you can hear 10 different languages. Individuals of different backgrounds and faith communities come to the Bender JCC to focus on their health, educate their children, swim, build friendships, and be part of a community center that helps individuals and families create meaningful lives.
In just a handful of weeks, we will launch our 2024 Lessans Camp JCC season. Even though our camp program is designed through the lens of Jewish heritage and values, 40 percent of the almost 600 staff members and campers are not Jewish. This is one of many examples why I believe the JCC is an antidote to hate and antisemitism. We as a Jewish community are serving children and young adults of all abilities in a way that does not exist anywhere else. Our inclusive community goes way beyond how we serve individuals with disabilities, but how we welcome everyone no matter their identity. Each person and their individuality matters at the Bender JCC, and as a Jewish community we are forging bonds across communities that will have a lasting impact for many years to come. Let us continue to address the immediate needs of our community while not taking our eyes off the sustained work required to achieve long-term healing and unity.
General Manager at Majestic Neighborhood Cinema Grill
1moWhat an honor 🎖, congratulations 🎊!