Omaha Jewish Community Center facts for kids
The Jewish Community Center (often called the JCC) in Omaha, Nebraska is a special place for the Jewish community. It first opened its doors in 1926. Later, in 1973, it moved to its current home at 333 South 132nd Street. For many years, the JCC has been a key spot for people to gather and support the Jewish community in Omaha. Today, it even has a memorial dedicated to the Holocaust, which is very unique in the Midwestern United States. In 2008, swimmers training for the Olympic Trials practiced at the JCC before their big competition.
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A Look Back: The JCC's Journey
When the JCC first opened in June 1926, it was located at 20th and Dodge Streets in Downtown Omaha. It had many useful spaces, like a library, a gym, an auditorium, and a Talmud Torah (a place for Jewish learning). The main goal was to offer a variety of activities for Jewish people in the area.
Why the JCC Was Created
Jewish people from countries like Germany, Poland, and Russia came together at the JCC. They enjoyed many Jewish cultural activities. This helped them connect and share their heritage. In 1931, the JCC joined with other groups, becoming "The Jewish Community Center and Welfare Federation." This new group helped raise money for many important Jewish causes. It also hosted speakers and had a youth council for young people.
Moving West
The JCC moved to West Omaha in 1973. This move was a big deal for the community. Many families and synagogues also moved west to be closer to the new center.
What Happens at the JCC Today
The JCC is still a very active place. It aims to be a home for all kinds of Jewish activities. It helps people of all ages grow in their Jewish life.
Programs and Organizations
Many different groups are based at the Omaha Jewish Community Center. These include the Jewish Federation of Omaha and the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. You can also find the Jewish Press newspaper there. Other important groups are the Center for Jewish Education and the Institute for Holocaust Education.
Fun Facilities and Spaces
The JCC has lots of cool facilities for everyone to enjoy. There's the Friedel Jewish Academy, which is a school. It also has a theater and an art gallery. You can find dance and music studios, plus many meeting rooms and classrooms. For sports, there's an indoor pool and an outdoor aquatic center. There are also fields for baseball, soccer, and basketball. You can use the handball courts and two indoor running tracks. The JCC also has health clubs and a fitness center.
Discovering Jewish History
The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is located right at the Omaha Jewish Community Center. It's a great place to learn about the history of Jewish people in Nebraska.
Exhibits and Archives
The Society has permanent exhibits like “Jewish Landmarks” and “Our Story.” These shows tell the story of Jewish life in the area. There are also changing exhibits in the main gallery. The Society keeps many old documents and photos in its archives. These help preserve local Jewish history. The Henry and Dorothy Riekes Museum inside the Society shows what a neighborhood shul (synagogue) used to look like.
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