News

The Boulder JCC, in partnership with local Jewish organizations, will host a community commemoration on Sunday, October 6, marking the second anniversary of the tragic events of October 7, 2023, in Israel.

The commemoration aims to create a sanctuary for our community to find comfort, strength, and connection in shared sorrow. The event will provide opportunities for both personal reflection and collective mourning as the community gathers to remember the lives lost on that devastating day.

On October 7, 2023, a day of unspeakable tragedy unfolded in Israel, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and our people. The commemoration will specifically focus on honoring the memory of those who were killed and the hostages taken that day, while acknowledging but not centering on subsequent events.

The event is presented through a collaborative effort between the Boulder JCC, Israeli-American Council (IAC), and Haver: Boulder’s Council of Rabbis & Cantors, demonstrating the unified response of Boulder’s Jewish community organizations.

The Boulder JCC's Messinger Art Gallery is preparing to unveil an extraordinary celebration of contemporary fiber art, featuring the innovative works of three accomplished artists: Camille McMurry, Julie Rothschild, and Sara Goldenberg White. This new exhibition promises to transform the gallery space into a tactile wonderland where traditional textile techniques meet bold, modern artistic vision.

The opening reception offers art enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in these captivating works while enjoying light refreshments and engaging in meaningful conversations with fellow art lovers. This celebration of creativity and inspiration represents exactly the kind of cultural programming that makes the Boulder JCC a vital community hub.

As the community prepares to welcome this new exhibition, art collectors have a final opportunity to acquire pieces from Artie Sandstone's current "Smile" Gallery exhibition, which will be coming down soon. Those interested in purchasing Sandstone's work can feel good knowing that a percentage of all art sales profits will be donated back to the Boulder JCC, supporting the organization's continued commitment to bringing exceptional cultural programming to the community.

The Boulder JCC’s preschool will mark an extraordinary milestone next month as it commemorates four decades of nurturing young minds in our community. What began with just six children has flourished into a vibrant educational center serving over 100 students—a testament to its enduring value and educational excellence. We hope that former students, parents, teachers, administrators, or anyone connected to the school in any way will join us at the JCC on Sunday, September 14, from 10 am to 1 pm to celebrate this incredible milestone.

This remarkable journey has woven the preschool deeply into the fabric of Boulder’s families, creating multi-generational connections that speak to its profound impact. We’ve witnessed former students return as dedicated educators and have celebrated cherished traditions, such as Shabbat Sing, with three generations of families participating together.

Before the Boulder JCC existed, there was the Boulder JCC Preschool. What began in 1984 as a humble satellite program of the Denver JCC, with just six children meeting three mornings a week, has blossomed into the vibrant Jay and Rose Phillips Early Childhood Center, which now nurtures hundreds of Boulder families.

The story begins with a visionary first director, Jen Feldman, who planted the seeds for what would become a cornerstone of Boulder’s Jewish community. Those seeds took root in shared space at Congregation Har HaShem, where the school’s earliest traditions were born.

Have you ever considered teaching a class on something you're passionate about? Exchange: A Hub for Learning is the lifelong learning program at the Boulder JCC.  The leadership committee is reviewing proposals for the Winter 2026 session.

Exchange offers engaging classes for adults 55+ taught by passionate senior adults to share their expertise with peers. Whether your background is in history, literature, science, the arts, wellness, or any other field, this is your chance to inspire others while deepening your own connections in the community.

We invite you to submit a proposal to teach either a six-week or three-week course. These short-term formats make it easy to design a class that is both manageable and impactful. You don’t need to be a professional teacher—what matters most is your knowledge, enthusiasm, and willingness to guide others in exploration and discovery.

Teaching at the Boulder JCC in the Exchange program is a rewarding way to celebrate your experiences and interests. You might share a career specialty, a personal passion, or a skill you’ve honed over the years. Past courses have ranged from literature discussions and music appreciation to hands-on workshops in acting and music. Others have focused on current events, memoir writing, or wellness practices that enrich daily life. The possibilities are wide open—if you have a topic you care about, chances are others will be eager to learn from you.

Whether you’re brand new to the sport or looking to elevate your skills, the Boulder JCC’s pickleball program offers something for everyone—from structured lessons to lively open play or dynamic clinics.

​​But, what even is pickleball?
Pickleball is a fast-growing paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into a game that’s easy to learn, fun to play, and incredibly social. People are drawn to pickleball for its quick learning curve, low-impact nature, and the sense of community it fosters—whether you’re playing casually or competitively. It not only improves your physical fitness and coordination, but also connects you with a welcoming network of players.

Now that you say it, I hear a lot about pickleball. What sets the Boulder JCC apart?
Every aspect of our program is led by a seasoned Pickleball Professional, dedicated not just to refining your game, but also to creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back. We offer programming that is straightforward and focused on making you a better player. On top of that, our staff is dedicated to making your experience the best in Boulder! 

Enrollment for Fall Early Learning programs at the Boulder JCC is now open—and there are still spots available! Families are invited to reserve their place early to ensure their children can take part in this season’s vibrant, hands-on programs.

The Boulder JCC’s Early Learning and Parenting Education offerings are designed to nurture children’s social and emotional growth while giving parents and caregivers meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and build community. From outdoor art and farm exploration to baby groups and toddler movement classes, each program blends skill-building with play, creativity, and discovery.

The air is crisp, the leaves are starting to turn, and that can only mean one thing—fall is officially upon us! At Café at the J, nestled inside the Boulder JCC, we’re celebrating the season in the most delicious ways possible: with a lineup of fall-flavored beverages and hearty seasonal meals you won’t want to miss.

As students head back to school in the Early Childhood Center and fall programs kick into high gear, we know routines are shifting and schedules are picking up. Whether you’re dropping the kids off, heading to a program yourself, or driving through the area, we’ve got the perfect pick-me-up to keep you going (and cozy) all season long.

The Boulder JCC’s affinity group, Women of the J (WOTJ), is embarking on an exciting and impactful path — creating incredible programs on women’s health. Recognizing that true empowerment begins with knowledge, self-awareness, and community, Women of the J is developing programming that not only addresses the unique health challenges women face but also celebrates the strength, resilience, and wisdom found in every stage of womanhood. The Women of the J invites you to take part in these programs, and the many others offered throughout the year! 

Looking for fun, enriching afterschool activities for your kids this fall? The Boulder JCC has you covered with a dynamic lineup of programs designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and help kids stay active after the school day ends. Whether your child loves to move to the beat, get their hands messy with clay, or try their hand at a new sport, there’s something for everyone.

Questions? Reach out to Camp & Youth Assistant Jordan Etter for more information about School Day Out programming.

Spaces fill quickly, so don’t wait—REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! Give your kids a chance to unwind, explore, and thrive after school with programs they’ll look forward to each week!

Visit boulderjcc.org for full details and registration.

This fall, the Boulder JCC invites you to slow down, create with your hands, and deepen your artistic practice through a diverse series of adult art classes and workshops. From botanical drawing to weaving wearable garments, this season’s offerings celebrate personal expression, seasonal inspiration, and community connection. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or a curious beginner, there’s a class for every level of experience.