It Begins With The Children:
Annual Report Celebrates Successes of JCC Programs

The JCC's Annual Meeting on May 26 was highlighted by a videotape of JCC Preschoolers singing their favorite songs. As they sang selections ranging from "Down By the Bay" to "It's a Small World," the meeting's theme L'Dor V'Dor came to life. Here was the future of the Jewish community singing to the present generation.

The children in all three preschools, camps, and teen programs, also were highlighted in the 2009 JCC Annual Report, a copy of which was given to each person in attendance at the meeting. (To download a copy of the 2008-2009 JCC Annual Report, click here.)

The report noted that for nearly 100 years, the JCC has been reaching out to families in Central Ohio to promote the importance of quality early education programs, and that entire families are positively affected by the experience at the JCC, creating new connections to their faith and the Jewish community for years to come.

In talking about the nearly completed "new" JCC New Albany Preschool, Executive Director Carol Folkerth noted that "This new building, which only a few years ago was just a dream, will become a reality due to the commitment and hard work by many. Joe Sniderman, Lisa Newmark, Laura Weiser, Mike Klapper, and Nancy Thoman are leading our NE build team. But as this building opens, we should take a moment to reflect that those who work and those who benefit today, are in truth standing on the shoulders of many who came before them."

Folkerth also noted that the "It Begins With The Children" Campaign has reached its halfway point toward the goal of $5.5 million. "In partnership with the Columbus Jewish Federation, when complete, this campaign will provide funds to build the North East facility, a new J Zone youth activities center at College Avenue, enhanced facilities for the JCC north and an endowment for teacher excellence and maintenance of our new facility," she said.

"I am proud to report that more than 150 members of the community have stepped forward and made a pledge to the JCC's future," said Folkerth. "But we have a long way to go. Don't wait to be asked - but you will be! Make a pledge and be part of JCC history. The JCC needs your help and our Jewish community will be stronger for it."

To make a contribution to the "It Begins With the Children" Capital Campaign, click on the "Donate Now" button below, or visit the JCC Capital Campaign website at www.itbeginswiththechildren.com. For more information on the campaign, contact Folkerth at (614) 559-6223.