How the JCF Center fulfills that responsibility

The Jewish Center and Federation of the Twin Tiers serves a broad eight-county geographic area, and has two major responsibilities. The first is to provide the Jewish community with social, cultural, recreational and educational opportunities in this area. The second is to foster its charitable commitment to Tikkun Olam and Tzedakah by collecting and distributing funds appropriately to charities internationally, nationally as well as locally.

Here, we would like to share with you how the JCF Center fulfills its first responsibility;

You may be asking yourself, "Why join a Jewish Community Center?"

Well, let's cut to the challah: because community matters! We're here to keep Jewish values and heritage alive and thriving, while uniting the area's Jewish community through education, recreation, and cultural programming.

Serving five NY and three PA counties, the JCF is more than just a center—it's a hub, a haven, a hangout for everyone. Whether you are part of a congregation, secular, observant, interfaith, LGBTQ+, or simply curious about Jewish life, you are welcome here. Jewish or not, it's a safe space for all.

So what's in it for our community?

Oh, just a year full of goodies and great vibes.

Below are some to the events we have or are currently offering (Please click here to see our most schedule of current and past events)

  • Thought-provoking lectures and the Holiday Celebrations

  • Sunday afternoon Movies (If you miss a show, stop in and borrow the DVD as part of our library loan)

  • Tuesday afternoon Game days

  • Families benefit from the PJ Library in the Twin Tiers. (Jewish children from the age of six months through eight years receive a free, age-appropriate book each month.)

  • Crafting sessions

  • "Breath, Body, and Mind" wellness classes

  • Sing-A-Rounds with Valley Folk

  • Elmira Pride Day Celebration – JCF table

  • More surprises throughout the year.

Become a member to support these events and get discounted tickets to special community events.

Additionally:

  • The JCF sends you the KolAmi newsletter

  • The JCF maintains the community calendar and our website.

  • The JCF also serves as a community "pick up spot" for things like the free NYSEG Winterization Kits

How do we keep the lights on and the latkes flipping? The JCF is powered by membership dues and donations, our fabulous Jazzy Junk sale, and the ever-tasty Nosh café.

Now for the exciting part: Membership is always open. You can join anytime.

  • Be an early bird.

  • Be a changemaker.

  • Be part of something meaningful.

Got an idea for future events? The Program Committee wants to hear from you!

Come for the culture, stay for the community.

Let's make this next year unforgettable—together.

Join Today! or In person at the JCF office.