In the News

From celebrating shared traditions to launching innovative programs for all ages, the JCC of Northern New Jersey stays active and engaged. Explore the recent features and articles below to see how the JCC is making a difference in the community every day.

PJ Library/Book Mobile

Jewish Link | July 16, 2026

The recent arrival of the PJ Library bookmobile in Bergen County, New Jersey, organized by J on the Go (a joint initiative of the JCC of Northern New Jersey and Jews for NJ), brings free Jewish literature to children worldwide—including older youth through its PJ Our Way program—to celebrate Jewish culture.

Read Article →

3GNJ/Keeping the Story Alive

Jewish Standard | July 2, 2026

Dr. Logan Brenner, an environmental science professor at Barnard College, became an advocate for Holocaust education through 3G New Jersey after exploring her family history and seeing a rise in antisemitism. Following a training program, she actively shares the survival story of her late grandfather, Leo Brenner—who endured Sachsenhausen, Auschwitz III, and Altenburg—with schools and community groups, highlighting the critical role third-generation descendants play in preserving Holocaust history as fewer firsthand survivors remain.

Read Article →

Spring Celebration 2026

Paramus Post | June 24, 2026

The JCC of Northern New Jersey held its annual Spring Celebration on June 18, 2026 in Rockleigh, New Jersey, where community members gathered to honor local leaders dedicated to strengthening Jewish life. During the event, the JCCNNJ presented the Julie Eisen z”l & Buzz Rukin Leadership Award to Howard Jakob and the late Eva Jakob, as well as the Community Connector Award to Erica Danziger, recognizing their significant contributions to building peer connections, fostering Jewish joy, and creating an inclusive foundation for future generations.

Read Article →

Active Seniors Rapid Growth

Pascack Press | May 11, 2026

The JCC of Northern New Jersey’s Active Seniors program has grown rapidly, with weekly lunch attendance in River Edge more than tripling over four years to around 60 participants. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the $5-per-day program offers morning fitness classes like Zumba Gold and chair yoga, followed by educational presentations or entertainment, and a catered kosher lunch. High demand for these events—ranging from documentary screenings and health talks to music and baking workshops—has made advance registration increasingly essential for local seniors.

Read Article →

Spring Celebration 2025

Jewish Standard | July 31, 2025

On June 26, 2025 supporters of the JCC of Northern New Jersey gathered in Rockleigh for a centennial celebration, raising over $300,000 and recognizing 14 past presidents. The event highlighted 100 years of leadership in strengthening Jewish identity, featured updates on community outreach programs, and emphasized efforts to connect families across the region.

Read Article →

Spring Celebration 2024

Jewish Standard | May 9, 2024

The JCC of Northern New Jersey honored Leslie and David Smith with the inaugural Eisen & Rukin Leadership award on May 23, 2024 at the Rockleigh. The award recognized their long-standing leadership of the Open Hearts Open Homes program, which supported Israeli teens from the Gaza envelope for 21 years. The event also marked the JCC’s 100th anniversary of community service and celebrated leaders Julie Eisen and Buzz Rukin.

Read Article →