Earlier this week, I came across an article by Todd Polikoff, CEO of the Aaron Family Jewish Community Center of Dallas, titled, “The Original Innovation Lab: Why Jewish Community Centers Are the Future of Jewish Life.” In it, Todd writes about JCCs as incubators and innovation labs – spaces that host diverse programs, bring together people across difference, and experiment with new models of engagement and belonging. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it, because what he describes so clearly is exactly what I see unfolding here at our JCC each and every day.
On Tuesday evening, we had the privilege of hosting 35 camp staff from both the JCC and YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh as part of the ongoing Unity in Community collaboration between our two organizations. The workshop, led by Jason Rivers, focused on building skills and awareness around identity, systems of dominance, and how we grow our critical consciousness as leaders so that we can better serve campers and their families with intention and an equity lens. What was most striking, especially given that those in attendance are at the beginning of their careers, was the depth, honesty, and care that filled the room. The insight and self-awareness the participants brought to the conversation clearly demonstrated that these are people who are actively and thoughtfully wrestling with how identity shapes leadership and decision-making. It was a powerful reminder that this work starts within us, and that intentional, reflective leadership is foundational to the kind of community we aspire to build.
And Wednesday brought another meaningful moment when the JCC hosted Pittsburgh Director of Public Safety, Sheldon Williams and for the joint graduation ceremony for the City of Pittsburgh’s Citizens Police Academy and Student Police Academy. Bringing those graduates together in our building celebrating their commitment to understanding and strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve felt entirely in keeping with who we are and what we believe.
Taken together, these moments are more than a busy week on the calendar. They are a reflection of what the JCC is – a place where diverse people come together, where important conversations happen, and where we are willing to do the hard, intentional work of building genuine community. Todd Polikoff is right. JCCs are innovation labs. But the most important thing we are innovating is human connection.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom,
Jason
Unity in Community is generously supported with help from our core partner, The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.
