The Sid Jacobson JCC has hosted its Annual Golf & Tennis outing for 39 years, and its latest iteration on July 22 continued its legacy of success. At this year’s event, 250 attendees came together for golf, tennis, Canasta and Mah Jong to support the JCC’s social service programs.
The Annual Golf & Tennis outing is the only fundraising event where all proceeds go toward these specific community programs. The Sid Jacobson JCC provides specialized adult programs, and their services are directly supported by this event.
Some of the groups and centers supported include individuals with neurodegenerative diseases and their care partners; the Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Center; the Community Needs Bank which aids those facing food insecurities; and its new Dr. Gayle R. Berg Center for Psychological Resilience which provides mental health support.
“We focus on highlighting one of our centers,” said Francine Stephens, the director of development at the Sid Jacobson JCC. “This year, we spotlighted our Center for Community Engagement which is centered around three pillars: volunteerism, social responsibility and our Community Needs Bank.”
Connecting Community
According to a press release, the event raised nearly $320,000 to strengthen the work of the JCC’s Center for Community Engagement. Along with fundraising for these valuable community resources, Stephens noted the importance of connecting attendees with the work and mission of these centers and the JCC.
“I know the money raised directly impact the lives of those in our community who need it most,” said Stephens. “A successful fundraiser not only raises critical funds for our community center, but also engages and educates people about the work we do. If even one new person leaves our event committed to our mission, we’ve achieved our goal.”
The event has become a tradition for the Sid Jacobson JCC and its community. However, reaching this status requires listening and evolving. This year, the JCC reintroduced table games to increase accessibility and interest. As such, 50 additional people were able to participate.
“To effectively support and engage with your community, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand their needs and actively listen to their desires,” explained Stephens. “By doing so, you can tailor your initiatives and programs to better serve their needs, ensuring your efforts are both relevant and impactful.”
This year’s event was a success bringing community members together for fun and in support of the Sid Jacobson JCC’s efforts in strengthening and serving the community. As the organization looks forward to its 40th Annual Golf & Tennis outing, the JCC has a solid foundation already to celebrate and gather with members at next year’s milestone event.
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