A Taste of the Great Outdoors
My son, Max, loves the outdoors. It’s where he thrives. No matter where we vacationed, he loved getting outside and exploring nature. When he entered middle school, we looked for an overnight camp program that would provide him the opportunity to hike, raft and camp outdoors, but we faced a real challenge. It was hard […] Learn More ›
As I Step Into Retirement
We have all heard the cliché about doing what you love. For me, I’ve been doing what I love since January 15, 1996. For 25 years, I’ve served as JCC Chicago’s Jewish Educator. I replaced “job hopping” with “job clinging” because for me, each year has felt totally fresh and not just another loop around […] Learn More ›
Finding Our ‘Center’
As JCC Chicago sets course for celebrating its 118th year, I’m both honored and humbled to be appointed Chairman of the Board. When I joined the JCC Chicago board 5-years ago, I never envisioned becoming its chair, but the passion and commitment I felt was contagious. I was raised in Milwaukee and spent a considerable […] Learn More ›
How We’ve Evolved Over 30 Years
Back in 1991, I picked up the Daily Herald, and saw a “wanted ad” for a teaching position at Northwest Suburban JCC in Buffalo Grove. I can remember going to my interview all dressed up with my big 80’s hairstyle, that somehow made its way into the 90’s, and thinking this would be a great […] Learn More ›
Continuing Our Connections
It’s hard to believe that the days and weeks of isolation introduced in March 2020 turned so quickly to months. Now, well over a year since JCC Chicago reopened its doors to Early Childhood families, appreciation for how and why people connect has taken root. Family vacations at Camp Chi last summer, Apachi Family Days […] Learn More ›
110 Years & Still Going Strong
Early summer is my favorite time of the year because it marks the start of camp. It’s a time for kids to come together, make new friendships, try new experiences, and enjoy being kids. After a year where kids spent their days inside, in front of computer screens or iPads, they need some much-needed fresh […] Learn More ›