As the first national organization to join the Big Tent Judaism Coalition, we know that the JCC (Jewish Community Center) Association is at the forefront of using innovative ways to reach those on the periphery of Jewish life. For example, the JCC in Manhattan, a member of the JCC Association, has recently launched a program for young adults with learning disabilities called Adaptations, The Young Adult Life Skills Network. According to its website, the program “offers college educated young adults—people in their 20’s and 30’s with learning disabilities or those needing support—the benefits of a supportive environment as they work towards achieving their life goals.”

As part of its efforts to continue providing programs for a wide audience, the JCC Association has invited JOI Executive Director Dr. Kerry Olitzky to lead a session on Monday, May 5th at their upcoming Biennial Conference in Miami. The session, “Thinking Big-Make your JCC a Big Tent JCC,” will address the steps JCCs can take to make their institutions even more welcoming.

The Biennial is an opportunity for lay and professional leaders in the JCC Association to learn together and from each other new ways to energize and innovate the JCC institution. We hope “Thinking Big-Make your JCC a Big Tent JCC” will inspire individual JCCs nationwide to join the Big Tent Judaism Coalition and expand their already extensive program offerings to best welcome everyone associated with the JCC community.