A place to hang

Anyone who has teenagers in the house knows that they need a place to hang out and call their own. The JCC not only gives teens a safe spot away from home to socialize, it gives their parents peace of mind, knowing that their kids are gaining independence in a place that shares their values.

Teens in grades 8 through 12 can develop their interest in theatre and the arts at the annual summer Maccabi ArtsFest^®. Whether they'd rather act, sing, draw, paint, or play in an orchestra or rock band, they'll be able to follow their muse for an entire week. If that's not enough, we also offer the Theatre Program for Teens where kids can be out in the spotlight, or behind the scenes making sets, or working the sound and lights.

For teens who just want to hang, our Teen Center offers a big screen TV, music, and a great place to meet up with friends after school. And for those who want to make a difference? We'll introduce them to the teen-run RAK (Random Acts of Kindness) Resource Center, which gives interested kids the chance to make a difference in the community.

Mandell JCC's team wins Maccabi Gold in Detroit!

Mandell JCC's soccer team and a swimmer have been competing in the Maccabi Games in Detroit. Our lone swimmer won a gold medal on Monday (9/18). And as of Monday, our soccer team was 2-0, winning against the Mixed team (9-4) and Hungary (8-2). These matches featured balanced play from our athletes with scoring from all players but one. The games, held in Detroit featured inspiring opening ceremonies for teams from around the world, with a motivational address from Olympic gold medallist Mark Spitz (whose son is in the games). Mandell JCC welcome our team home to Hartford on Friday 9/22. For more information about the games, check out these websites: www.jccmaccabigames.org and www.2008detroit.org.

UPCOMING TEEN ACTIVITIES

Theater

Does your teenager like to be in the spotlight? Does he/she enjoy making sets or working the technical aspects of a play, like sound and lighting? Then come join the JCC's Theater Program for Teens. For more information, please call Glenn Knafel at 231-6333, e-mail gknafel@mandelljcc.org or visit the Herbert Gilman Theater page on our website.

Teen Center

Enjoy a movie on our big screen TV, listen to music, or hang out with friends after school. The teen center is also available as a meeting place for youth groups (Mondays & Wednesdays only). For more information, please call Glenn Knafel at 231-6333 or e-mail gknafel@mandelljcc.org.

R.A.K. Random Acts Of Kindness

Want to make a difference in the community? Come check out RAK at the JCC. RAK is a new Teen Program created and run by teens. RAK is designed to be a resource center for community service hours and social action. If you need community service hours for school, Bar/Bat Mitzvah projects, or youth group social action programs, participating in RAK can provide you with these credits. Be a role model for Greater Hartford's children. Community service is available in the following areas: Early Childhood Center, After School Children's Programs and Youth Sports. For more information, please call Glenn Knafel at 231-6333 or e-mail gknafel@mandelljcc.org.