Blog

This past year has been a transformative one at the J. Across our campus, we’ve invested in meaningful renovations designed to enhance the way our community gathers, moves, relaxes, and connects. Each project was approached with intention, care, and a deep understanding that the J is not just a facility—it is a shared home for our community.

On Monday, June 10, the Siegel Jewish Community Center (JCC) held its annual meeting, marking a significant transition in leadership and a renewed commitment to its mission. The evening was filled with reflections on the past year’s accomplishments, the celebration of dedicated volunteers, and the introduction of new leadership.

“When I approach a child,” said Louis Pasteur, “he inspires me in two sentiments: tenderness for what he is and respect for what he may become.” This sense of affection in the present and possibility for the future is part of what makes working with kids so inspirational and rewarding. Though not without its challenges, working in early childhood education (ECE) provides a wealth of benefits and personal fulfillment.

Today, we’ll take a closer look at ECE, its far-reaching importance, and the joys of working in the field.

"No man,” wrote author and scholar John Donne, “is an island." As social creatures, we inherently seek connection, belonging, and purpose, all of which a community provides. Communities foster social connection, which is integral to our mental health, and encourages socialization that has a range of health benefits. Let's delve deeper into the beneficial aspects of community involvement for both our mind and body.

If you're one of the many parents who has a full-time job, you're probably familiar with the stress of juggling your work schedule with your child's school schedule. For families in this situation, afterschool programs like Siegel JCC's KidsPlace program provide a place for kids to spend the afternoon hours until their parents are able to pick them up.

In a society that is increasingly defined by loneliness and isolation, community centers offer an opportunity to connect with others in a family-friendly space. However, in addition to creating a space for meaningful interactions, there's a lot more to community centers than might initially meet the eye. Community centers, particularly Jewish Community Centers (JCCs), are dedicated to creating a sense of belonging and supporting the health and wellness of their members. 

Whether you're thinking about joining or are a new member still trying to get your bearings, here are a few of the benefits you can expect from your Jewish Community Center membership.

The incomparable Ruth Siegel, one of our J's namesakes, is turning 100 years old on Thursday, November 26th!

Below, enjoy some photos of Ruth at the J over the years, read her story, and write a greeting to Ruth on her online birthday message board. 

This Thanksgiving, we're feeling particularly grateful for the opportunity to celebrate someone so dear to our community. 

We are continuing to monitor the developing situation regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please see below for updates.

On weekdays, June 17 - August 16, between the hours of 8:30-9:15 AM and 3:30-4:15 PM, the 2nd entrance from Garden of Eden Road will be CLOSED. 

Due to impending, potentially unsafe weather conditions, all programs are canceled on Sunday, January 20, and the building will close at 1:30 PM.

The J was privileged to honor long time J member and philanthropist Barbara Schoenberg at our Fall Fundraiser, Craft Bash 2018. 

"There are two distinct languages. There is the verbal, which separates people. . . and there is the visual that is understood by everybody." – YAAKOV AGAM

Delaware Shakespeare is bringing Merchant of Venice to the J. Read about it in the Jewish Voice, October 2018. 

Information about Gymnasium Closure

Information about construction and how to access the J!

Jewish Voice, January

It's Chanukah! Everything we do matters. Acts of kindness change us and the world. We enjoy the Chanukah festival by naming and giving thanks for acts of kindness we have received and performed this year. 

Enjoy this video, from our staff to you! Chag sameach!

Life has been particularly challenging over the last few months as our country has suffered terrible tragedy: An unrelenting hurricane season that has affected millions of people in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. An unspeakable act of violence in ...

The Jewish Community Center is always growing and changing, but some names are as steady as a rock against the tide. Jodi and Benjie Cohen have been members at the Siegel JCC for over 20 years. They’ve raised a family in this community, three ...

Dear friends, I am so very excited to share our new staff structure at the J. Next time you come to the J, you’ll see some new faces, as well as some familiar faces taking on new roles and responsibilities. I believe deeply in the team we ...

"The Superhero Teacher" by Anna Saul.