Centennial evening marks 100 years of community, leadership, and connection
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Centennial evening marks 100 years of community, leadership, and connection

July 31, 2025, 11:58 am Edit
Honoree Paula Cantor and board chair Jayne Petak stand in front of past presidents/honorees; from left, Gary Hirschberg, Casey Wolf, Jeff Bolson, Michael Feltman, Marc Bushell, David Hirschman, Buzz Rukin, Bruce Mactas, Jeff Tucker, and Barry Kissler.
Honoree Paula Cantor and board chair Jayne Petak stand in front of past presidents/honorees; from left, Gary Hirschberg, Casey Wolf, Jeff Bolson, Michael Feltman, Marc Bushell, David Hirschman, Buzz Rukin, Bruce Mactas, Jeff Tucker, and Barry Kissler.

On June 26, supporters of the JCC of Northern New Jersey met at the Rockleigh for the JCC’s celebration of its centennial. They raised more than $300,000 as they honored a century of community service and the visionary leaders who shaped it.

The evening honored 14 past presidents whose leadership over the past 50 years helped guide the organization’s mission: to foster Jewish identity, strengthen community engagement, and provide meaningful experiences for Jewish families across Northern New Jersey. Each honoree received the Eisen z”l & Rukin Leadership award.

The celebration brought together community leaders, changemakers, and supporters from Bergen to Rockland and beyond. Guests enjoyed reflections on the JCC’s rich history and impact, updates on such current programs as Mini Mensches and Active Seniors, and a look toward its future. “A community isn’t defined by walls, but by the people who come together to uphold it,” past president Paula Cantor said.

“J on the Go is about so much more than programming,” Erica Danziger, the JCC’s director of programs and outreach, added. “It’s about creating opportunities for families who seek connection, meaningful ways to bring Jewish traditions into their homes, and a sense of belonging in our community.” For information on the JCC’s programs, go to jccnnj.org.

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