(Published Aug 15, 2018)

Investing In The Future is a theme JCC leaders believe in as the organization celebrates 60 years on Hoover Road in 2018. Staff and lay leaders pay it forward every day with programs and services focused on our youth. Parents can feel good their children are getting positive reinforcement while learning and developing life skills. One valuable skill is learning how to face and overcome life challenges.

Swimming Teaches Life Lessons Summer should be a carefree time for kids, but sometimes fears get in the way.

Swim teacher Aaron Welcher felt his lessons represented more than mere utilitarian skill building. As students began to learn how to swim, Aaron observed kids becoming less afraid and more self‐ confident, assumed leadership roles in class, and were more outgoing, bonding with instructors and building relationships with peers.

Building Community The sense of community and compassion Aaron learned as a youngster at the JCC motivated him to send this email to one student’s parents via Camp staff:

“… I am working (during swim lessons) individually with Brian. He has always had issues with the water. However today he did amazing! He did not cry once and did everything I asked him to do. Please let his parents know how well Brian is doing. With his history of fearing water I know positive reinforcement is huge for his confidence. Thanks!”

A Grateful Parent JCC Camp Supervisors passed on the message; Brian’s dad emailed Aaron to thank him directly.

“Aaron, Thank you so much for letting us know! We have been talking with Brian since camp has started and have been encouraging him in regards to swimming. The fact that you took the time to contact us speaks volumes about your commitment to the success of the kids at the JCC. Thanks for all that you do for Brian!”

Paying it forward is a way of life at the J. You can help this happen every day through your gift to our 60/60 campaign, which represents a gift of $1 per year for each of the 60 years the JCC has been on Hoover Road.

We thank you in advance for your support, and we thank you for helping us get the word out about the 60/60 campaign by sharing this story!

P.S Double your impact! A handful of donors has offered to match donations up to $30,000. So each $60 donation is really $120!

*Aaron Welcher currently works as Programming and Communications Coordinator for the Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Council, but he began his career in the Indianapolis Jewish community as a swim instructor at the JCC.