Mercer Island’s Stroum Jewish Community Center is steeped in tradition, but its annual meeting Sept. 18 stressed innovation, diversity and community outreach. The JCC unveiled a new strategic plan that will guide its programs, budget and objectives for the next three years.
“There’s a legacy and a history here, yet the ‘J’ has evolved over the years,” said CEO Judy Neuman.
The JCC plans to diversify its board of directors, broaden its donor base and reach out to neighbors, along with focusing on four priorities: long-term financial stability, community engagement, Early Childhood School and facilities.
“If the whole community is working toward the same end goal, it means that the planning process was worth it,” Neuman said.
The four priorities are things the JCC has always done, Neuman explained, though honing on in these specific objectives will act as a road map for the board and staff, helping them track their progress both quarterly and annually.
The operating budget of the JCC has grown by 50 percent in recent years, and donations have increased by 35 percent, Neuman said. About 1,000 people walk through the doors of the JCC every day, going to the school, fitness center or many other communal spaces and meeting rooms.
The JCC’s theater underwent a $5 million renovation and opened earlier this year, as part of an effort to expand the JCC’s cultural arts program. The auditorium will be the home of the Seattle Jewish Film Festival, performances by the French-American School and Youth Theatre Northwest, and other events such as concerts, lectures and the Oct. 6 Seahawks game.
According to its new plan, the JCC will stay ahead of the curve in early childhood education trends and establish a capital reserve fund, as well as continue to improve the aesthetic and functional quality of its building.
“Facilities are always a challenge,” Neuman said. “We have amazing programs, and a really old building.”
Still, Neuman said that many Islanders may have a dated picture of the JCC in their minds, and that people say they have been “blown away” by recent changes. Though it is a Jewish center, anyone can be member.
“We are evolving intentionally and we want the community to participate,” Neuman said.
One of the most significant shifts in the near future of the JCC involves its overall governance.
Instead of members, the board of directors will now govern the agency. The board will elect officers, vote on bylaws and approve the strategic plan, but will still encourage member input.
“Even if members aren’t voting, there will still be a desire to be transparent about those plans,” said Sarah Tobis, marketing and communications manager for the JCC.
Neuman said the JCC will continue to hold annual events to celebrate with the community.
“We might turn it into a volunteer appreciation night,” she said. “I think people walked out feeling proud of the leadership, and proud to be a part of the ‘J.’”
For more information, visit www.sjcc.org.
