Passover at the JCC: Community & Connection
Passover is a time of renewal, reflection, and connection; a season that brings families and communities together in meaningful ways. At JCC Indianapolis, this time of year offers a natural opportunity to celebrate tradition while staying engaged through programs that support wellness, learning, and community involvement. Whether you’re spending time with family, exploring new activities, […]
Shabbat Shalom: Two Emails. One Powerful Reminder
As we move toward Shabbat, I’ve been sitting with two emails I received over the past few weeks in response to Friday messages I had written. On the surface, they came from very different perspectives — but together, they tell a powerful story about who we are as a JCC community. One was from a member […]
Shabbat Shalom from Sam: Stronger in Who We Are, Together in What’s Next
Our JCC has been engaged in a rigorous and deeply thoughtful strategic planning process, led by Panoramic Strategies, to guide our next chapter. This past Monday evening, our Board of Directors officially adopted the framework for that plan, which is centered around four key pillars that will shape not only what we do, but also […]
Shabbat Shalom from Sam: A Community That Refuses Fear
Earlier this week, I was preparing to fly back to Massachusetts, where I previously led a JCC. The trip was supposed to be short — less than 24 hours — yet I knew it would be emotionally heavy. In the spring of 2024, a man came to that JCC with a gun and filmed himself […]
Spring Break in Indianapolis: Stay Active at the JCC
Spring is a season of renewal, a time to shake off the winter blues and embrace the vibrancy of new beginnings. At JCC Indianapolis, we offer a plethora of spring break activities to keep you and your family active and engaged. There’s something for everyone here, making us the go-to destination for families seeking an […]
Shabbat Shalom from Sam: Different Missions. One Community.
Once a week, a group of us — Jewish community leaders — sits around a table. On paper, we run very different organizations.David Sklar spends his days advocating for the Jewish community and building relationships across the civic landscape through the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Indianapolis. Rachel Katz leads Jewish Family Services of Greater Indianapolis, […]
A Purim Message for Our Community
This past Saturday, I found myself around a friend’s kitchen table — coffee cups full, chairs pulled close, the comfortable hum of people who trust each other enough to say what they’re really thinking. We gather every Shabbat afternoon after synagogue services. That part wasn’t new. But this Saturday felt different. We had all woken up […]
Shabbat Shalom from Sam: she called about the floors
A few weeks ago, I sat down at my desk to catch up on my emails and noticed I had a voicemail. The message was simple: “Please call me. I have a few questions.” Now, when you oversee a building that is open seven days a week from early morning until late at night, “a […]
Shabbat Shalom from Sam: What’s a Spinyan?
I can’t recall all the details of the very first spin class I attended — who the instructor was, what music played, etc. — but I will never forget how I felt when as a 20-something I walked into the spin room of the JCC in my hometown. I was a little unsure and a […]
February at JCC Indianapolis: Adar, Purim & School’s Out Days
February is a sweet spot at the JCC Indianapolis: the Jewish calendar shifts into Adar (hello, joy!), families start mapping out spring schedules, and it’s the perfect time to plug into community—whether you’re a longtime member or visiting us for the first time.