Retirement Academy

Wednesdays, October 14 - December 9, 2026 (No Class Nov 25th) | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

For years, the Retirement Academy has been one of the JCC’s most cherished signature programs, and the waitlists and word of mouth speak for themselves. Led by Certified Retirement Coach and longtime facilitator Marsha Berkson, this intimate 8-week journey helps you navigate one of life’s biggest transitions with clarity, purpose, and meaningful connection. Past participants call it life changing, with friendships lasting long after the final session. Space is intentionally limited, so whether you’re newly retired, planning ahead, or ready to write your next chapter, don’t wait. Your people are in this room.

Price: $412 | JCC Member $330

Retirement Academy Add to Cart

Absolutely Beginners Hebrew Conversation Bootcamp Course

Thursdays | October 15 - December 10, 2026 | 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm (No Class Nov 26)
Lawrence Family JCC

Back by popular demand!

No Hebrew experience required! Using the interactive Ulpan-Or method, students begin speaking Hebrew from the first lesson through conversation, games, and real-life scenarios. Learn to introduce yourself, ask and answer basic questions, use everyday expressions, and build confidence speaking Hebrew. All Hebrew is taught phonetically—no reading or writing experience needed.

Price: $200 | JCC Member Price: $185

Absolutely Beginners Hebrew Conversation Bootcamp Course Add to Cart

Israel Decides: An Election Like No Other

Monday, October 19 & Wednesdays October 21 & 28, 2026| 6:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Israel is approaching the most consequential elections in its history. Join us for a three-part series with Jacob Leibowitz, Chief of Staff at Hillel of San Diego and an Israel expert, designed to deepen your understanding of the key players, the most dramatic questions shaping the campaign, and what to watch as Election Day approaches. Two session will prepare you for the vote, followed by a special post-election session the next day to unpack the results and what comes next.

Price: $60 | JCC Member $48

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this class requires a minimum enrollment in order to proceed. If this minimum enrollment is not met, the class will be cancelled. In the event of a cancellation, all enrolled students will be notified and will receive a full refund or the option to credit their registration fee to a future event.

Israel Decides: An Election Like No Other Add to Cart

TREASURES OF THE JEWISH MUSIC COLLECTION EXPLORE THE MUSIC OF THE ASTOR JUDAICA LIBRARY

Thursdays | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Astor Judaica Library
Lawrence Family JCC

Step into the rich tapestry of Jewish musical heritage with. Eileen Wingard and a community of music aficionados as they showcase and appreciate iconic musical gems from the Astor Judaica Library’s Jewish music collection.

The 2026-27 season will feature six complimentary programs of music by Jewish-born Classical Composers.

October 29, 2026:
Composers from Russia's Jewish Folksong Society. Guest: Ph.D candidate, Ilana Shapiro

December 3, 2026:
French-Jewish Composers, Meyerbeer, Halevy, Alkan, Milhaud. Guest: Paris-born David Gmach

February 25, 2027:
Composers Gustav Mahler, Friedrich Gernsheim. Guest: Pianist Enrique Lombroso

April 15, 2027:
Composers Arnold Schoenberg, Ernest Bloch. Guest, Conductor David Amos

May 13, 2027:
Composers Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Lukas Foss. Guest: Michael Buczazer

Price: Complimentary

October 29 Add to Cart

December 3 Add to Cart

February 25 Add to Cart

April 15 Add to Cart

May 13 Add to Cart

JEWISH POETS-JEWISH VOICES: The Magic of Spoken Word

Tuesdays | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Celebrate the 19th season of Jewish Poets-Jewish Voices! One program will be devoted to two Jewish Poets of the Past. During the other three programs, experience an enriching evening as three talented local poets, handpicked by the JP-JV committee, share their compelling presentations. Following their performances, indulge in a half hour of open mic, where you're invited to share your own voice. Join us for a captivating night filled with spoken word and moments of introspection.

Nov 17
Jewish Poets of the Past: Malka Tussman, Ukrainian-born American Yiddish Poet, Haim Hefer, Polish-born Israeli songwriter. Their poetry and songs will be performed in English translation and the original language. The Ohr Shalom Choir, under the direction of Elisheva Edelson, will participate in the program.

Jan 12
Featuring three local poets, followed by a half hour of open mic. Open mic topic, nature, in honor of Tu B'Shvat.

Mar 9
Three local poets, open mic

Apr 6
Three local poets, open mic

Price: Complimentary

November 17 Add to Cart

January 12 Add to Cart

March 9 Add to Cart

April 6 Add to Cart