I often say that the most important role of a JCC these days is bringing people together across differences and creating opportunities to learn from one another, challenge our assumptions, and discover the connections that make our community stronger.
On Monday evening, we kicked off this year’s Unity in Community partnership with the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh and held our first Curious Conversation at the South Hills JCC. Dr. Ron Idoko and Daniel K. Abusuampeh led a thought-provoking presentation exploring the differences between belonging and tribalism and the implications of each for our individual and collective well-being. Together, we examined how tribalism affects our mental health, shapes the health of our communities, and influences our political systems.
The formal presentation was followed by a rich and deeply personal discussion about friends and family members from whom we have grown apart or whom we have lost altogether because of differences in how we see the world. Together, we explored what each of us can do to disrupt the “us versus them” dynamic that so often stands in the way of genuine curiosity, understanding, and connection. These conversations remind us that building a stronger community requires more than simply acknowledging our differences. It calls for the courage to ask better questions, the humility to challenge our own assumptions, and a genuine willingness to remain open to perspectives different from our own.
Then, on Wednesday evening, we launched our Compass Intergenerational Initiative, bringing together more than 20 older adults and eight teens for our first session – exceeding our initial attendance expectations! Our goal is to build 15 mentorship pairs, with formal pairings planned for November, but Wednesday demonstrated that meaningful connections are already beginning to take shape.
The evening focused on breaking down age-related stereotypes and exploring how ageism affects all generations. Older adults shared experiences of feeling invisible, being underestimated, or having others assume they no longer want to learn or contribute. Teens described what it feels like to be dismissed because of their age or stereotyped as being perpetually attached to technology and uninterested in personal connection.
Participants explored their identities, discovered shared interests, and created a web of string stretching across the room – a tangible reminder of how interconnected we all are. And some of the most memorable moments happened organically. A teen boy and an older gentleman discovered a shared hobby and celebrated with a high five. A teen girl learned that two older women she was speaking with had belonged to the very same Jewish youth group chapter she belongs to today! And when we asked who had been a “camp kid,” a sea of hands went up, especially among our older adults, sparking stories and shared memories of their days at Emma Kaufmann Camp.
Whether we are navigating political differences, challenging stereotypes across generations, or discovering an unexpected shared interest, connection rarely happens by accident. It requires intention, curiosity, and a willingness to see one another as individuals rather than as representatives of a group.
At the JCC, we believe our community is stronger when we make room for everyone. Monday’s Curious Conversation and Wednesday’s Compass kickoff were wonderful reminders that when we create the conditions for people to meet, listen, and learn from one another, meaningful connections undoubtedly follow. We hope each of you will join us over the coming weeks and months as our JCC continues in its relentless pursuit in creating a multitude of opportunities for people to move beyond assumptions and toward understanding, from separation toward connection, and from simply sharing a community to actively building one together.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom,
Jason
Register for Nov. 2 event HERE!