The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Bridgewater is marking its 25th anniversary this year. For CEO Laura Friedman, COO Paige Silberfein, and JCC Board President Josh Wang, this milestone reflects the deep connections the JCC has fostered within the community.
“When we opened in 1999, we aimed to create a space for gathering and support,” Friedman says. “We couldn’t have anticipated how the JCC would become integral to so many lives.” The anniversary highlights both past achievements and the future of the JCC.
Initially launched with 450 membership units, thanks in part to the Birnbaum family’s support, the JCC now boasts more than 2,000 members, demonstrating strong community endorsement. “We’re grateful for the community’s support and look forward to continuing this journey,” Friedman shares.
One notable accomplishment is the JCC’s preschool, which started in 2000 with 13 children and two teachers. It now serves more than 130 children with a staff of 23. “Seeing families return year after year is incredibly rewarding,” Silberfein notes.
The JCC’s summer camp, serving more than 625 children annually, has become a community staple. “It’s a place for children to make lifelong memories and build confidence,” Silberfein shares. The camp also provides summer jobs for more than 150 teens and college students, offering them valuable leadership experience.
Special needs programming is another significant development. “We strive to make everyone in our community feel included,” Silberfein says. The JCC’s special needs programs and Special Olympics swim team exemplify this commitment.
Fitness remains central to the JCC’s offerings, with more than 75 weekly classes ranging from group fitness to aquatics. The swim team, with more than 160 members, and expanding basketball leagues highlight the JCC’s dedication to sports and wellness. “We offer something for everyone, from fitness to cultural programs,” Silberfein explains.
The JCC has also provided crucial support during crises. During Super Storm Sandy, it offered warmth and essential services, and it quickly reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic to support families. “We partnered with food banks and delivered supplies even when we were closed,” Silberfein says.
Over the years, the JCC has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships to ensure financial accessibility to its programs. “These scholarships allow us to support families in need,” Friedman shares.
The 25th anniversary celebration on Nov. 16 will feature a catered dinner, a ceremony honoring key contributors, and a festive “J After Dark” party. “We want everyone in the community to join us,” Wang says. Honorees include the "First Families of the JCC" and long-serving board members and staff.
Recognized will be Harriet and George Blank, Doron and Sherry Steger, and Art Roswell, who have supported the JCC from its inception. The dedication of board members Peter Horowitz, Richard Skydell, and Jerry Zweig, as well as long-serving staff like Debbie Golden and Paige Silberfein, will also be acknowledged.
The JCC will celebrate its MVPs, including Bonnie Bernstein for her longstanding commitment, Chris Enny for managing the men’s basketball leagues and establishing a scholarship fund, Doug Kennedy for his support of fundraising events, and Dr. Eric Yorke for his contributions to cultural arts and medical guidance.
Friedman reflects on the JCC’s impact: “Without the JCC, many lives would be different. We’ve become a vital resource for families at every stage of life.” The JCC’s mission is to offer a welcoming, inclusive environment for all, celebrating diversity and ensuring everyone feels valued.
Looking ahead, the JCC is focused on innovation and relevance, continuously evolving to meet community needs. The Life & Legacy Program, which encourages planned gifts, is key to securing the JCC’s future. “It’s a meaningful way to ensure future generations benefit from the JCC’s services,” Friedman says.
As the JCC celebrates its 25th anniversary, the leadership team is both reflective and optimistic about the future. “We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited about the possibilities ahead,” Friedman exclaims. “Our goal is to keep growing and meeting new needs while staying true to our mission.”
Friedman, Silberfein, and Wang express their deep gratitude to the community: “Your support has been essential to our success. We’re excited to continue this journey together and build on what we’ve achieved.” For the JCC, the 25th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but an opportunity to shape the future with the community that has made it all possible.
“We couldn’t have anticipated how the JCC would become integral to so many lives.” - Laura Friedman, CEO.
“We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited about the possibilities ahead. Our goal is to keep growing and meeting new needs while staying true to our mission.” - Laura Friedman, CEO.