In a display of community and continuity, the Weinstein JCC convened its annual meeting on Sunday, May 19, at its Monument Avenue campus.
The event culminated in a celebratory reception honoring the Center’s new president, Stuart Simon.
Outgoing President Greg Bishop opened the evening with gratitude, acknowledging the members as the cornerstone of the Center. He emphasized the crucial role of unity and open dialogue in today’s polarized climate, underscoring the value of face-to-face conversations to foster understanding.
The highlight of the evening was a poignant performance by the cast of the Jewish Family Theatre’s summer production of “Rent,” delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Seasons of Love.” As their voices filled the room, a video montage played, capturing the significant impact of the Weinstein JCC on the community over the past year.
Weinstein JCC CEO Orly Lewis took the stage, weaving the theme of “five hundred twenty-five thousand, six hundred minutes” from the song “Seasons of Love” into a reflection on the Center’s achievements.
She highlighted how the JCC measures the value of a year through experiences and shared moments, emphasizing the profound impact of its programs on the lives of community members.
She also spotlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing staff well-being, integrating technological advancements, and ensuring teacher retention.
Noteworthy among these efforts was the establishment of the Voices in Peace Community Choir and the ongoing collaboration with Feed More through the Center’s Elmer Toth Food Pantry. Amidst a resurgence of antisemitism following the events of October 7, Lewis courageously addressed the complex challenges confronting the Jewish community, reaffirming the JCC’s unwavering commitment to fostering resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
A particularly thrilling announcement followed: the Weinstein JCC is on the brink of concluding the quiet phase of its capital campaign, aptly titled “Building a Bright Future Together!”
Under the stewardship of Sara Villalona, Bruce Perretz, and David Fratkin, and supported by a committed cabinet and esteemed honorary co-chairs Ric Arenstein and Lynn Schwartz, the campaign heralds a transformative era for the Center.
Its ambitious agenda encompasses the modernization and expansion of preschool, after-school, fitness, aquatic, and Camp Hilbert facilities, alongside bolstering security measures.
Moreover, the campaign endeavors to re-imagine the Arenstein Lobby, imagining a Kosher Quick Grab Café and collaborative workspaces that will further enrich the JCC’s vibrant community hub.
Lewis expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support from the board and the community, heralding a robust and inclusive future for the Weinstein JCC.
The campaign officially launched to the public on June 20th with a family barbecue, where the community joined in a celebration to support the Center’s vision.
The evening also celebrated individual contributions through several awards:
Sara Villalona received the President’s Award for her exemplary board service and co-chairing the Capital Campaign Advisory.
Lily Brooks, a senior at Douglas Freeman High School, was honored with the Arenstein Family Excellence in Youth Service Award.
Bruce Perretz was presented with the Esther, Edith, and H.J. Bernstein Volunteer Leadership Award. Lisa Looney received the Barbara Wise Staff Award, commemorating her nearly 30 years of dedicated service.
The meeting saw the election of new officers and board members for 2024-2025, with Greg Bishop as Chair and Stuart Simon as President. Honorary Vice Presidents included Ric Arenstein and Allison Weinstein, with Chris Greenberg, Bruce Perretz, and Wes Simon serving as Vice Presidents. Lynn Schwartz was elected Secretary, and Andy Brownstein as Treasurer. New board members were also installed, and departing members were recognized for their significant contributions.
Stuart Simon concluded the meeting with heartfelt remarks on the JCC’s vital role in his family’s life. A video showcased the new Israeli Pavilion at Camp Hilbert, funded by grants and the generosity of Dr. Nathan and Lisa Zasler.
Simon encouraged further support for the ongoing capital campaign, inviting those interested to contact Orly Lewis or Stephanie Sulmer for more information.
As the evening drew to a close, the cast of Jewish Family Theatre serenaded attendees with “No Day But Today,” leaving a resonant reminder of the enduring spirit and forward momentum of the Weinstein JCC.
Their performance underscored the cherished time and meaningful moments that define the Center’s existence, highlighting the collective experiences that bind and enrich the lives of its members and our community.
The Weinstein JCC is supported, in part, by a generous annual campaign contribution and programming and other grants from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.
