August 6, 2020
Dear Friends:
Over the past few months, I am sure you have read stories of individuals and families we have been able to assist in our weekly e-blasts and through our social media platforms. These stories have been just a snapshot of the job we have been doing since mid-March when COVID-19 struck. The Friedman JCC efficiently adapted to the new normal incredibly quick offering new services remotely to meet the needs we witnessed in our NEPA community.
In the first few months following the pandemic, requests for our food pantry increased. We moved various classes online. Seniors reached out to us, not just for necessities, but also for the chance to connect to other people and help break their social isolation.
While many businesses have begun to reopen, we know that the issues this crisis created will not go away overnight, and there are so many people in our region who still need our help. At the Friedman JCC, our staff is constantly working on new programs to serve the new and growing needs we see in our community. Our staff has worked extremely hard to get these programs up and running, and I am so proud of their dedication to our agency’s mission.
We are very appreciative of our donors and funders who helped us keep our programs running through these tumultuous times. Our Illumination Early Learning Center is back and is at near enrollment capacity. After 89 summers, our JCC Day Camp even with a lower enrollment is still making pleasant memories and experiences for our young campers.
On behalf of our entire Board & Staff, we thank you for your continued membership affiliation and program support.
Sincerely,
Gary Bernstein
Chief Executive Officer
PS. Be sure and visit us this Sunday from 9am-3pm for the socially distanced JCC Outdoor Marketplace. Looking forward to greeting you all then.
