Indianapolis Jewish Community Center News & Events

Shabbat Shalom from Sam: A Clear Vision, an Evolving Path

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While some weeks bring unmistakable momentum, others offer something quieter but equally useful: perspective. This week fell into the latter category, reminding me that progress is rarely linear. We can be confident about where we are going while recognizing that the steps required to get there may shift as we learn, encounter unexpected turns, and […]

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Shabbat Shalom from Sam: From Exclusion to Belonging

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One Friday morning a few weeks ago, I walked into my office and found a voicemail from lifelong JCC member David Berman. That voicemail led to a conversation I have continued to think about. When I called him back, it became clear that David was not calling with a concern or a request (though those […]

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Back-to-School Routines That Actually Work

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The school year brings a new rhythm to family life, and the afternoon hours often carry the biggest shift. JCC Indianapolis shapes back-to-school routines for families throughout Indianapolis, IN. Familiar faces, room to move, and a dependable activity can fit into the week your family already has. Our campus gives kids and parents a place […]

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Shabbat Shalom from Sam: A Story I Rarely Tell

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This morning, I logged into Facebook and one of those “On This Day” memories caught my attention. It was a picture of me holding my newly earned spin instructor certification, and I couldn’t believe that fourteen years have already passed.Seeing that photo immediately took me back to a chapter of my life that I don’t […]

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An Open Door, An Important Responsibility

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Yesterday, I learned that 77% of people seeking Jewish connection turn to a JCC first. That number should command our attention. Rabbi Daniel Septimus shared this datapoint throughout his visit to Indianapolis this week. Daniel, the former CEO of Shalom Austin, now leads JCC Association’s new Center for Jewish Peoplehood. He repeated the statistic because […]

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What L’dor V’dor Teaches Us About Staying Fit

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Busy summer schedules make it easy for workout routines to slip, but a few small adjustments can keep momentum going. JCC Indianapolis supports members through fitness classes designed to fit even the most unpredictable weeks. This month also brings a meaningful value into focus, one that connects fitness, family, and community.

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The Legacy That Lives On

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Recently, I walked into a restaurant to meet a special group for breakfast. Before I even reached the table, I could hear the laughter. Stories were flying back and forth, old memories resurfacing, and every conversation seemed to find its way back to one person: the late Rod Hofts, who served as the JCC’s Director […]

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What Kids Gain Emotionally at Summer Camp

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Summer camp fills long days with swimming, sports, and songs around the flagpole, but the real magic often happens beneath the surface. JCC Indianapolis runs summer camps built around more than fun and games. Every session, campers grow in ways that stick with them long after the last bus ride home.

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Shabbat Shalom from Sam: Rabbi Hal Schevitz’s Thoughts on our JCC

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Earlier this week, our JCC gathered for its 113th Annual Meeting. It was a special evening to recognize the extraordinary contributions of our staff and volunteers and to elect the next slate of officers and directors who will help lead our organization in the year ahead. It was also a meaningful celebration of all we […]

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3 Lifelong Recreational Skills Tennis Can Teach

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The lessons learned through recreation often continue long after the activity itself ends. At JCC Indianapolis, we believe sports can teach lessons that last a lifetime, and tennis is a great example. While it helps participants stay active and improve physical fitness, it also encourages habits and skills that support lifelong participation in recreation and […]

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