Fun and inclusive activities define the Weinstein JCC for many Richmonders.
Ongoing theatre productions, community-wide events, sports training, babysitting services, and summer camps provide enrichment for the whole family and promote education and well-being in the community.
Its recently concluded Building a Bright Future Together capital campaign has exceeded expectations, raising over $11.5 million and funding numerous transformative developments.
“This year, enrolled families experienced refreshed, updated, and expanded preschool and afterschool areas,” says Michael Blanchard, Senior Director of Marketing and Member Experience, “[as well as] a completely reimagined wellness wing, fully renovated fitness center, and two updated indoor saltwater pools in our Aquatics Center.”
Other major improvements include upgrades to the lobby, auditorium, community meeting rooms, gymnasiums, and group exercise studios, all of which contribute to a more modern, welcoming, and functional experience for members and guests alike.
Thanks to these capital investments, the JCC has also increased capacity in both preschool and afterschool programs—helping to reduce waitlists that have persisted for years. There’s never been a better time to consider enrollment.
To ensure that all children in our community can benefit from these award-winning programs, the Weinstein JCC proudly offers need-based scholarships. While scholarship applications for the 2025–26 school year have closed, applications for the 2026–27 school year are now being accepted. Late enrollments for the current 2025–26 preschool and afterschool programs are still being accepted, as space allows.
The community is also taking notice. The Weinstein JCC was recently named a multi-category winner in Richmond magazine’s 2025 annual “Best Of” awards for the 15th consecutive year, earning 1st place in preschool education, afterschool care, summer camps, and children’s enrichment classes, along with being voted #2 best membership gym in the region. These accolades speak to the Center’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and its deep connection with families across Greater Richmond.
What’s Coming Up at the Weinstein JCC: Arts, Ideas, and Inspiring Community Connections
The Weinstein JCC is preparing for an exciting and meaningful 2025–26 season, filled with cultural arts, engaging events, and opportunities to connect across generations and backgrounds. Through theater, live music, culinary workshops, visual arts, and more, the Center’s signature cultural arts subscription series, Arts + Ideas, continues to be a cornerstone of Richmond’s Jewish cultural life.
A New Chapter: Brad Finkel Joins as CEO
The start of the new season also coincides with a new chapter in leadership.
Brad Finkel began his role as CEO of the Weinstein JCC on Monday, Aug. 4, and has already made a strong impression across the organization. He expressed deep gratitude for the warm welcome extended to him and his wife, Rachael, and shared that it has been a smooth and energizing transition into the Richmond community.
“I’m truly inspired by the passion and commitment I see here every day,” Brad said. “The Weinstein JCC is more than a center—it’s a vibrant, welcoming community where everyone has a place to learn, grow, and connect. I’m excited to help lead this incredible organization into its next chapter.”
Brad’s first week began with an all-staff gathering, where he had the chance to meet many of the team members who make the JCC’s mission possible every day. Throughout the week, he met individually with department leaders, visited Camp Hilbert with a donor to see the summer programs in action, and attended a Shabbat celebration with the four-year-olds in the Early Childhood Program as the 12-month session came to a joyful close.
601He also participated in the opening of a meaningful art exhibit in the Center’s Sara D. November Gallery, a reminder of how deeply art and community are woven together at the Weinstein JCC.
Art That Heals: What Hands Can Do Exhibit
Last month, the Sara D. November Art Gallery at the Weinstein JCC hosted What Hands Can Do, a powerful multi-sensory art installation designed by Jewish Life and Israel Engagement Manager, Pinina Morgan.
Created in response to recent events in Israel and the shared feeling of helplessness, the exhibit invited visitors to engage with photography, sculpture, poetry, music, and interactive elements that explore how we use our hands to grieve, heal, create, and take action.
One attendee reflected, “This exhibit is not just something to look at—it’s something to feel.” While What Hands Can Do has now closed, the Sara D. November Gallery remains free and open to the community during the Center’s hours, bringing new exhibits throughout the season. For details on upcoming shows, check out the 2025 Fall Activity Guide at weinsteinjcc.org.
Team Virginia Shines at the JCC Maccabi Games
In early August, Virginia Jewish teen athletes competed at the JCC Maccabi Games in Pittsburgh and had a truly remarkable experience. Bringing home 11 medals, Team Virginia showcased not just athletic excellence but also outstanding sportsmanship. A standout moment came when one of our athletes lent his shoes to a competitor from another city who had left theirs behind, enabling that player to participate in the basketball tournament—just one example of the camaraderie and spirit that defined the delegation.
Hosted at the University of Pittsburgh through Aug. 8, the Games brought together nearly 2,000 Jewish teens from the U.S., Canada, and around the world—including delegations from Israel, Argentina, Ukraine, Poland, Great Britain, and Mexico. From soccer to swimming, dance to sports journalism, the Maccabi Games are about more than competition—they build community, Jewish identity, and lifelong memories.
Special thanks to Coach Nick Pruden for leading Team Virginia with heart, hustle, and championship energy all week long. “These young athletes embody the true spirit of the Games—showing kindness, resilience, and team spirit on and off the field,” Nick said. Mazel tov to our athletes for making us proud on and off the field, showing true team spirit from the opening ceremony to the final whistle!
Looking Ahead: Arts + Ideas 2025–26 Season Preview
The Weinstein JCC’s Arts + Ideas series is back with a fresh, dynamic lineup of performances, workshops, and cultural events for the 2025–26 season.
Things kick off in early September with a special partnership between the Weinstein JCC and Richmond Hebrew Day School (RTA).
On Tuesday, Sept. 3, the two organizations will co-host the Judaism and Art Symposium, a dynamic panel discussion featuring artists, curators, and educators exploring Jewish identity and creative expression. The event will also showcase a student art exhibit titled Brushstrokes of Tradition in the November Gallery, highlighting works inspired by Jewish masters such as Marc Chagall, Sol Lewitt, and Roy Lichtenstein, alongside original pieces by RTA students.
On Sunday, Sept. 14, the Weinstein JCC will welcome Israeli influencer and artist Idan Chabasov—better known as The Challah Prince—for an interactive challah braiding workshop.
Participants will learn stunning braiding techniques while also reflecting on the cultural and spiritual significance of challah, just in time for Rosh Hashanah. This hands-on experience promises to blend creativity, tradition, and connection in a joyful and inclusive way.
“Arts + Ideas brings the community together through storytelling, music, and shared experiences that inspire and uplift,” says Leslie McGuigan, Senior Director of Programs. “We’re thrilled to present a season that reflects our diverse culture and invites everyone to explore new ideas and traditions.”
On Saturday, November 8, the JCC will host Carole King: She Made the Earth Move, a musical tribute featuring Richmond’s own Susan Greenbaum and a book talk from journalist and author Jane Eisner. This event will explore the lasting impact of one of America’s most influential singer-songwriters and Jewish icons.
From December 4 through 14, the Jewish Family Theatre will present a spirited and family-friendly production of Guys and Dolls. With its unforgettable music and characters, this Broadway classic promises to bring audiences of all ages together.
In January, the JCC’s annual Israeli and Jewish Film Festival returns, running from January 8 through 25. The festival showcases a curated selection of international films that reflect the diversity, complexity, and richness of Jewish and Israeli life.
On March 12, the acclaimed Israeli pianist and composer Guy Mintus will perform live with his trio at the JCC, offering a jazz-infused evening that blends classical technique with Middle Eastern and global influences.
Rounding out the season, on May 7, the Adolf-Adams JCC Forum will present An Evening with Ambassador Roger Carstens, former U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs. Carstens will offer insights into international diplomacy, negotiation, and the critical work of securing the release of Americans held overseas.
A Season to Remember
With so many inspiring opportunities to engage, learn, and celebrate Jewish life and culture, the 2025–26 season at the Weinstein JCC promises to be one to remember. Whether attending a performance, participating in a workshop, exploring a powerful exhibit, or taking part in a thought-provoking forum, the community is invited to experience the richness and vibrancy of Jewish cultural life in Richmond.
To learn more, purchase tickets, or subscribe to the Arts + Ideas series, visit weinsteinjcc.org.