In June, the Carole and Marcus Weinstein Jewish Community Center is showcasing the many ways Jewish community can come to life — through inclusion, leadership development, creativity, philanthropy, and shared values. 

From the launch of the new JPrideRVA initiative to community fundraising efforts, leadership cultivation, exciting summer camp experiences, and the upcoming production of Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, the Weinstein JCC continues to create meaningful opportunities for connection across generations. 

Together, these programs reflect the Center’s ongoing mission to enrich lives through Jewish values, wellness, education, and community engagement. 

JPrideRVA: Celebrating Inclusion and Jewish Identity 

At the center of this month’s programming is the launch of JPrideRVA, a week-long celebration and educational initiative uplifting LGBTQ+ voices and experiences within Jewish life. 

The celebration begins the week of Sunday, June 7, and continues through Friday, June 12, bringing together community members for programs centered on inclusion, education, advocacy, and Jewish pride. 

Rooted in the Weinstein JCC’s mission and values, JPrideRVA seeks to create a welcoming and affirming environment where LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and allies can gather in community, engage in dialogue, and celebrate identity with pride. 

The initiative comes at a particularly meaningful time, as Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities across the country continue to face rising antisemitism and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation. JPrideRVA represents an intentional effort to strengthen community resilience while affirming the dignity and belonging of every individual. 

Programming throughout the week will feature a variety of inclusive experiences, including panel discussions with local rabbis, collaborative programs across multiple JCC departments, national guest speakers focused on LGBTQ+ advocacy and storytelling, art, and a community-wide Rainbow Shabbat celebration. 

All events are designed to foster empathy, understanding, and connection while reflecting the Weinstein JCC’s commitment to diversity, justice, and welcoming all who seek community. 

“JPrideRVA is not only a celebration,” organizers shared, “but an investment in building a more inclusive and compassionate Jewish future.” 

To learn more about JPrideRVA programming and events, visit weinsteinjcc.org. 

Camp Hilbert Welcomes Israeli Shlicha for the Summer 

The Weinstein JCC is also excited to welcome Roni, an Israeli Shlicha (emissary), to Camp Hilbert this summer for a 12-week experience focused on enriching camp life through Israeli culture, leadership, and connection. 

Roni will serve as Camp Hilbert’s Israeli Life Specialist, helping campers deepen their understanding of Israeli culture and Jewish identity while also leading engaging team-building and challenge-based activities throughout the summer. 

The Shlichot program creates meaningful cultural exchange opportunities and strengthens the connection between Richmond’s Jewish community and Israel. Through music, games, storytelling, traditions, and shared experiences, campers will have the opportunity to build personal relationships and gain a deeper appreciation for Israeli life and culture. 

Roni will also help facilitate activities centered on teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and confidence-building — all hallmarks of the Camp Hilbert experience. 

The Weinstein JCC community looks forward to hosting Roni this summer and sharing in the energy, spirit, and connection she will bring to camp. 

The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond is proud to support the Weinstein JCC Camp Hilbert Shlichut program through the Israel and Overseas Committee.

Driving Community Impact Through Philanthropy 

Community support was also on full display at the Weinstein JCC’s 37th Annual Golf Tournament, which brought together 111 golfers at Richmond Country Club for a day of camaraderie, competition, and philanthropy. 

The annual event continues to serve as one of the JCC’s important fundraising initiatives, helping sustain programs and services that impact individuals and families throughout the Richmond community. 

Proceeds from the tournament support a wide range of JCC initiatives, including scholarships that ensure access regardless of financial circumstances, inclusion services that create meaningful opportunities for individuals of all abilities, and engagement programs that help older adults remain active, connected, and supported. 

Golfers enjoyed ideal weather conditions throughout the day, contributing to an energetic and welcoming atmosphere on the course. Participants included longtime supporters, community leaders, volunteers, and first-time players — all united by a shared commitment to strengthening the JCC’s mission. 

“It was just a great day for golf,” one participant shared, reflecting the spirit of connection and celebration that defined the event. 

The tournament’s success was made possible through the generosity of sponsors led by Presenting Sponsor TowneBank. Matt Clarke, President of TowneBank Chesterfield, spoke about the importance of supporting the Weinstein JCC’s work throughout the region. 

“We love supporting the JCC and seeing all ages being served through its programs,” Clarke said. “It’s inspiring to be part of something that makes such a broad and lasting impact in the community.” 

The Weinstein JCC also expressed appreciation to more than 40 new and returning sponsors whose continued partnership helps sustain the tournament and the programs it benefits. Special recognition was also given to Steve Norris of Americare of Richmond for donating Yeti tumblers for tournament winners. 

Volunteers played an equally critical role in the event’s success, assisting with registration, hospitality, course support, and logistics throughout the day. 

While the tournament provided an enjoyable day on the greens, organizers emphasized that its true impact extends well beyond the course. Funds raised directly support programs that help ensure the JCC remains a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals and families of all backgrounds and abilities. 

Developing the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders 

Another highlight this season was the graduation of the fifth cohort of the Weinstein JCC’s Leadership Development Program, an initiative designed to cultivate future leaders within both the Center and the broader Jewish community. 

The program launched in October with a Taste of the Weinstein JCC experience, introducing participants to the Center’s many departments, programs, and operations. Over the course of the year, cohort members explored topics including the JCC’s mission and vision, nonprofit leadership, fiscal responsibility, Jewish communities in Israel and beyond, and effective storytelling and leadership development. 

Participants also collaborated on a final session in which teams presented innovative ideas for strengthening engagement and enhancing community life at the JCC. Proposed concepts included transforming the existing Innovation Day into collaborative brainstorming experiences, building stronger nature-based programming connections with Camp Hilbert, expanding meaningful Jewish learning opportunities for elementary and middle school children, and exploring new tracking systems to support programming and engagement. 

The 2025–2026 cohort was led by current Board member Shelley Gouldin and Lisa Looney and included Alyx Barranger, Courtney Dozier, Emily Federman, Rachel Feinstein, Eden Fried, Nicole Friedenberg, David Gluckman, Lori James, Irina Manelis, Stephen Mutnick, Heidi Oliver, Daniel Rodman, Sheri Rodman, Samantha Shokin, Adam Shor, Samantha Wetzel, and Melanie Ziff. 

The program reflects the Weinstein JCC’s commitment to investing in volunteer leadership and ensuring a strong future for Jewish communal life in Richmond. 

Annual Meeting Celebrates Leadership, Service, and Community Impact 

The Weinstein JCC recently held its Annual Meeting at the Monument Avenue campus, bringing together members, volunteers, staff, and community leaders to celebrate the people and accomplishments that continue to shape the organization’s future. 

The evening was emceed by Leadership Development Program graduates Nicole Friedenberg and Stephen Mutnick and concluded with a community reception in the Sara D. November Gallery.  

During the program, CEO Brad Finkel reflected on his first year with the Weinstein JCC and the deep sense of belonging that defines the organization’s culture and mission. 

“I hear time and time again about the joy that people feel when they are here at the Weinstein JCC,” Finkel shared during his remarks. “On any given day we see 2,000 people come in our building and actively engage.”  

Finkel highlighted the broad reach of the JCC’s programs and services over the past year, noting that the Center welcomed 188 preschool students, served 145 participants in Kids’ Place, delivered more than 2,000 camper weeks at Camp Hilbert, and distributed more than 102,000 pounds of food through the Elmer Toth Food Pantry.

He also emphasized the importance of scholarships and financial assistance programs that help ensure access to wellness, educational, and community-building opportunities for individuals and families throughout the region.  

Finkel acknowledged the success of the Weinstein JCC’s Grand Ribbon Cutting Celebration held in October following the completion of the Capital Campaign improvements, which welcomed more than 300 members, guests, and supporters to celebrate the Center’s renewed spaces and future growth. 

Additionally, he noted the recent launch of the Center’s new registration and membership system, designed to improve account management, registration, and user experience for members and program participants.  

He also recognized the important partnerships the Weinstein JCC continues to maintain throughout the Jewish community, specifically thanking the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond and the Richmond Jewish Foundation for their ongoing collaboration and support.  

Looking ahead, Finkel shared excitement about the Weinstein JCC’s upcoming 80th anniversary celebration and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to continued facility improvements, expanded community engagement opportunities, and strengthening partnerships throughout Richmond’s Jewish community. 

Planned projects include air conditioning upgrades in the Auditorium and Kids’ Place spaces, refinishing the Arenstein Gym floor, and continued enhancements to member experiences across the Center.  

Drawing inspiration from the Torah portion Bamidbar, Finkel reflected on the Jewish value of community and belonging. 

“In Jewish tradition, being counted is about more than numbers,” he shared. “It is about belonging, responsibility, and community. Each member of the community has a unique role and place and contributes to the strength and continuity of the community.”  

Finkel concluded by expressing gratitude to the Weinstein JCC staff, recognizing their dedication and daily commitment to serving the community and advancing the Center’s mission.  

Outgoing President Stuart Simon was recognized for his leadership over the past two years, a period marked by significant organizational growth and achievement. 

During his tenure, the Weinstein JCC successfully completed an $11.6 million Capital Campaign, implemented a new customer relationship management system, increased membership and preschool enrollment, expanded participation across programs, strengthened fundraising efforts, and welcomed a new CEO. Simon’s daughter, Ashley Brooks, reflected on his dedication and commitment to the Center during the evening’s program. 

Outgoing President Stuart Simon reflected on the significant accomplishments achieved during his two-year tenure and expressed gratitude to the volunteers, staff, donors, and community members whose dedication helped strengthen the Weinstein JCC during a period of meaningful growth and transition. 

Under Simon’s leadership, the Weinstein JCC successfully completed its $11.6 million Capital Campaign, celebrated the reopening of newly renovated spaces, implemented major technology upgrades including a new CRM system, increased membership and preschool enrollment, expanded program participation, and welcomed new CEO Brad Finkel to the organization. 

Simon emphasized that these achievements were the result of collective community effort and reflected the enduring strength of the Weinstein JCC’s mission and values. 

He also spoke about the importance of ensuring the JCC remains a welcoming, vibrant, and financially sustainable center for Jewish life in Richmond for generations to come. Looking ahead, Simon expressed confidence in the organization’s future leadership and excitement about continuing to serve the community as incoming Chair of the Board. 

Simon also reflected on the extraordinary dedication of the Weinstein JCC’s volunteers, professional staff, donors, and community partners, emphasizing that the organization’s success is built through shared commitment and collective effort. 

He noted that one of the most meaningful aspects of his presidency was witnessing the continued growth of programs that bring people together across generations — from preschool classrooms and Camp Hilbert to wellness programming, cultural arts, and senior engagement initiatives. 

“As we look toward the future and the Weinstein JCC’s upcoming 80th anniversary, I am incredibly optimistic about where we are headed,” Simon shared. “This community continues to show resilience, generosity, and a deep commitment to ensuring the JCC remains a vibrant center for Jewish life for generations to come.” 

Simon concluded by thanking members and supporters for their trust and partnership throughout his presidency and expressed enthusiasm for continuing to support the organization in his new role as Chair of the Board. 

Newly installed President Chris Greenberg also shared reflections on the Weinstein JCC’s recent growth and the opportunities ahead for the organization. Greenberg expressed gratitude to outgoing President Stuart Simon for his leadership during a transformational period that included the Capital Campaign, facility improvements, and strengthening the Center’s governance structure. 

Greenberg noted that while the Weinstein JCC has experienced significant progress in recent years, the organization continues building toward an even stronger future following the challenges brought by the pandemic and broader shifts impacting Jewish communal life. 

“My focus will be to continue the work to strengthen our board’s engagement, leadership development, and lay leadership succession planning,” Greenberg shared, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful governance and long-term sustainability. 

She also highlighted the value of collaboration between volunteer leadership and professional staff, noting her enthusiasm for partnering with CEO Brad Finkel and the JCC team to continue expanding programs, enhancing community experiences, and creating new opportunities for engagement across the organization. 

Greenberg additionally praised the Weinstein JCC’s committee structure and strategic planning efforts, which continue to foster innovative ideas and deepen involvement from members and volunteers throughout the community. 

The Center also installed its 2026–2027 Board of Directors: 

• Chair: Stuart Simon  

• President: Chris Greenberg  

• Vice President: Shelley Gouldin  

• Secretary: Sarah Arenstein Levy  

• Treasurer: Andy Brownstein  

• ECC Representative: Chelsea Bookbinder  

New board members beginning their first three-year terms include Devon Barnhart, Alyx Barranger, Greg Bishop, Lori James, Seth Kaplan, Jonathan McNamara, Stephen Mutnick, Charley Scher, and Wes Simon. Returning board members continuing their service include Susie Adolf, Sharon Brager, Art Mullian, Sara Villalona, Gary Weiner, Nathan Zasler, Ashley Brooks, Erika Kain, Landis Knee, Jennie O’Holleran, Shana Levy Passman, Greg Samuels, KC Sledd, and Sara Waskin.  

The evening also highlighted several outstanding members of the Weinstein JCC community through annual leadership and service awards. 

The Arenstein Family Excellence in Youth Service Award was presented to Sydney Isenberg. The award recognizes an outstanding member of the Weinstein JCC between the ages of 12 and 19 who demonstrates dedication to Jewish values, leadership, Tikkun Olam, and Tzedakah through service to both the Jewish and broader community. 

Sydney was recognized for her leadership as President of the Jewish Student Union at Douglas S. Freeman High School, where she helped grow the club into the largest JSU in the Richmond area with more than 50 active members. She also serves as Vice President of Jewish Enrichment for BBYO’s Cohen chapter, leading Shabbat programming, Havdalah gatherings, and community service initiatives connected to regional programs including Stand Up and Speak Up.  

The Leroy B. Goldberg Leadership Award, established in 1985, was awarded to Landis Knee in recognition of her sustained volunteer leadership and commitment to the mission of the Weinstein JCC. 

Landis has played an integral role within the Early Childhood Committee, serving as chair for two years while helping strengthen parent engagement, faculty support, and preschool community connections. She currently co-chairs the Youth and Family Committee and has also served on the Board Advancement Committee and JCC Gala Committee.  

The Barbara Wise JCC Staff Excellence Award was presented to Donna Peters. Established in 2023 in honor of longtime Assistant ECC Director Barbara Wise, the award recognizes an exceptional staff member whose dedication, integrity, leadership, and years of service embody the guiding principles and mission of the Weinstein JCC. 

Donna Peters’ impact on the Dora L. Lewis Family and Child Development Center spans more than four decades. Since joining the JCC in 1981, she has helped guide the preschool through numerous innovations, including implementation of the Reggio Emilia approach, creation of the Inclusion and Support Program, development of nature-based learning initiatives, and certification of playgrounds as outdoor classrooms. 

The Annual Meeting also celebrated staff milestone anniversaries, recognizing employees whose longstanding service has helped shape the Center and its community: 

• 10 years – Jodi Panko and Harry Sewell  

• 15 years – Scott Vipperman  

• 25 years – Dave Decker and Tracye Dowdell  

• 30 years – Shari Menlowe-Barck  

• 40 years – Sharon Johnson  

• 45 years – Donna Peters  

Entertainment during the evening was provided by Jewish Family Theatre performers, who offered attendees a preview of the upcoming summer production of Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, highlighted later in this article.  

Together, the awards, recognitions, and celebration reflected the extraordinary leadership, volunteerism, and sense of community that continue to define the Weinstein JCC. 

Teaching Jewish Values Through Action 

This spring, the Weinstein JCC community also demonstrated the power of Jewish values in action through a special tzedakah initiative connected to the preschool’s Shuk event. 

Together, families, children, and faculty raised an impressive $1,275 in support of Social Delivery, an Israeli organization that provides essential goods and rapid-response support to vulnerable populations and nonprofit organizations throughout Israel. 

The fundraiser became more than a donation drive — it became an opportunity for children to experience firsthand the Jewish values of generosity, compassion, and communal responsibility. 

Parents participated enthusiastically in the project, helping create a meaningful educational experience centered around giving back and supporting communities in need. 

In a message of appreciation to the Weinstein JCC community, Social Delivery thanked families, children, and faculty for their support and partnership. 

“Your generosity plays a crucial role in expanding Social Delivery’s ability to respond rapidly and effectively,” the organization wrote. “Thanks to your support, we can reach even more communities and organizations in need.” 

The organization also emphasized the importance of partnerships like this in rebuilding Israeli society and ensuring vulnerable populations receive necessary care and support. 

For the Weinstein JCC, the project reflects a larger goal of integrating Jewish learning and values into everyday experiences for children and families. 

“We are always proud when our children, families, and faculty participate and gain an appreciation for our focus on Jewish values,” organizers shared. “May we continue together, creating a brighter future for all.” 

A Summer Adventure on Stage 

Meanwhile, excitement is building in the Sara Belle November Theatre as Jewish Family Theatre prepares for its summer production of Disney’s Descendants: The Musical. 

Based on the hit Disney Channel films, the musical combines comedy, adventure, high-energy music, and beloved Disney characters in a family-friendly theatrical experience. 

The story follows the teenage children of some of Disney’s most infamous villains — Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil — who leave the Isle of the Lost for the first time to attend prep school alongside the children of Disney heroes. Faced with questions of identity, belonging, and personal choice, the characters must decide whether to follow in their parents’ footsteps or forge a new future of their own. 

Directed by Debra Clinton, the production highlights the talent, creativity, and collaborative spirit that continue to define the Weinstein JCC’s performing arts programming. 

Performances will take place at the Weinstein JCC Sara Belle November Theatre, located at 5403 Monument Avenue, on the following dates: 

• Wednesday, June 17 at 7:00 PM  

• Thursday, June 18 at 7:00 PM  

• Sunday, June 21 at 3:00 PM  

• Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 PM  

• Thursday, June 25 at 7:00 PM  

• Sunday, June 28 at 3:00 PM  

Selections from the musical were recently previewed during the Weinstein JCC’s Annual Meeting celebration in May, where Jewish Family Theatre performers entertained attendees and helped showcase the vibrant arts community at the Center.  

To learn more about Disney’s Descendants: The Musical and purchase tickets, visit weinsteinjcc.org. 

Strengthening Community Through Shared Experiences 

Whether through advocacy and inclusion initiatives like JPrideRVA, leadership development opportunities, charitable projects supporting Israel, fundraising efforts that sustain vital community services, immersive summer camp experiences, or family-friendly theatre productions, the Weinstein JCC continues to serve as a place where Jewish values and community life intersect in meaningful ways. 

As summer begins, the Center invites the broader Richmond community to participate, connect, and celebrate together — strengthening the bonds that make Jewish communal life vibrant, compassionate, and welcoming for all.