As we gather this week to celebrate the Fourth of July, we mark a moment in history defined by courage, unity, and a commitment to something greater than oneself. Independence Day invites us not only to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy, but also to reflect on our respective roles in upholding the values that strengthen our communities.
At the JCC, one of our Sheva Lenses through which we view our work – Tikkun Olam – tells us that one of the most powerful expressions of patriotism is service. It reminds us of our responsibility to give back in ways that help our neighbors, uplift our collective spirit, and invest in the future we want to build together. And in fact, over the last 10 months, nearly 25% of our full-time workforce has participated in the JCC’s Your Light, Your Impact Volunteer Time Off program, donating 100 hours of time to a charity with which they most deeply and personally connect.
Over the coming weeks, the JCC is excited to provide YOU with a number of meaningful opportunities to engage in this spirit of community action:
- Donate Blood at the JCC Blood Drive: A single blood donation can save up to three lives. In a season where many blood banks face critical shortages, your participation matters more than ever. Please join us on Sunday, July 6 at the JCC Squirrel Hill in the Robinson Gymnasium and CLICK HERE to learn more and schedule your appointment.
- Volunteer at the 2025 JCC Maccabi® Campus Games: This summer, Pittsburgh will host 2,000 Jewish teens from around the world for a transformative week of athleticism, friendship, and connection to Jewish peoplehood. We need dedicated volunteers to help bring this experience to life. Whether you greet athletes, assist at events, or offer logistical support, your time and sense of Pittsburgh pride will help create memories and meaning for young people in our community and beyond. CLICK HERE to register as a Maccabi Campus Games Volunteer!
JCC Cares at the 2025 JCC Maccabi Campus Games: Each set of JCC Maccabi Games includes JCC Cares, a community service initiative specific to each host community where teen athletes learn that leadership and community responsibility matter just as much as winning on the field. This year’s JCC Cares project is a spirited partnership between the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, Reading is Fundamental Pittsburgh and Repair the World where we have a goal of collecting 10,000 books to support a lifelong love of reading across the entire Pittsburgh region. CLICK HERE to shop from our Amazon wish list and please drop off your donation at either the JCC in Squirrel Hill or South Hills.
This July 4th, let us celebrate not just with barbeques and fireworks, but with purpose. Let’s all recommit to one another through acts of kindness, generosity, and civic engagement.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom and an enjoyable holiday weekend,
Jason
