The Jewish Community Center announced it has a new membership director. Kathy Kiekel, who is currently the JCC’s facilities director, will serve in that position to help with membership retention and membership growth.
“Kathy has worked non-stop to put into place facilities and maintenance staff who are as dedicated as she is to providing our community with a safe, comfortable, well-maintained and clean Center,” said JCC staff. “With over 60,000 square feet of building space sitting on eight acres of land, this is no small task and her small team has gone above and beyond to ensure our 57-year-old building is lovingly cared for.”
The JCC has more than 60,000 people come through its facility annually, but only a small portion of the community who visit are members. “Kathy offered to try her hand at membership retention and membership growth,” JCC staff added. “As our new membership and facilities director, Kathy is available to give tours to prospective members, answer any questions about the wide variety of programs offered here at the JCC, listen to members’ ideas about potential new programs or upgrades to existing programs, and go out and meet with community organizations, service groups, religious organizations and businesses to encourage JCC membership.”
When asked about the importance of membership to a non-profit like the JCC, Kiekel replied, “Membership is the heartbeat of the JCC. When you become a J member, it signifies your commitment to an organization that was founded nearly 100 years ago on the idea that a community should be for everyone. As a JCC member, you are helping to support programs at the J that include the Early Childhood Education Center, Camp JCC, health and wellness programs in aquatics, fitness and athletics, plus a wide variety of educational, social and cultural programs.”
Seniors might not be aware that their JCC membership may be available at no cost. “Here at the JCC, we proudly participate in SilverSneakers, Renew Active and FitOn Health programs,” explained Kiekel. “As part of your Medicare benefits program, many health insurance providers offer a benefit that pays for your JCC membership. As a member, you can now use our pool, health clubs and fitness room, and take classes in water aerobics and those under the SilverSneakers Curriculum, all at no out-of-pocket cost to you.”
Members also receive discounted pricing in Early Childhood Education Center enrollment and Camp JCC, and for many educational, social and cultural programs offered by the JCC. “Please check out all that we have to offer,” said Kiekel. “We are so much more than many people realize. We offer a variety of enrichment programs for our JCC children in areas that encourage athletic activity, the arts and social interactions with friends.”
Kiekel added, “If you are already a member, thank you! Please share your experiences here at the JCC with family, friends and organizations you belong to, and encourage them to become members, as well. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining our growing J family by becoming an active participant in all that the JCC has to offer. Community starts here!”