Offering a Safe Community Space for Generations to Come
Founded in 1910, the non-profit York Jewish Community Center, or JCC, is one of the largest community centers in York County. As the large banner on the front of the building states, everyone is welcome at the JCC. Through early childhood education, before-and-after-school care, wellness, fitness, family services, culture, and recreation for all ages and abilities, the JCC is a center for family life and wants every individual who walks through the doors to feel welcomed and safe.
Between 2018 and 2019, the United States saw an increase in anti-Semitic incidents in the Northeast. There was a mass shooting at the Tree of Life, or L’Simcha synagogue, in Pittsburgh; a shooting spree at a kosher market in Jersey City; arson of Jewish buildings in Brooklyn; and many other attacks on Jewish people across the country. These attacks revealed a need to assess the vulnerability of the JCC.
To ensure the best possible security, the entrance and lobby of the York JCC required major renovations and new security systems. While a federal grant provided security equipment and processes, it did not include construction, so the York JCC turned to the Powder Mill Foundation for help.
With support from the Powder Mill Foundation, a partnership was established between the JCC and Kinsley Construction allowing the security upgrade to be completed and providing protection to everyone who visits the York JCC.
Louis J. Appell Jr. was a passionate community leader and supporter of the York JCC’s Early Childhood Education programs. His values are reflected in our support in providing the JCC with the funding to create a safe and protected environment for its members and guests.
We are extremely grateful to the Powder Mill Foundation for their ongoing, incredible support. The Foundation has helped us address several critical needs allowing us to continue serving our members and the broader York community. We feel very fortunate to have the Powder Mill Foundation as a partner in fulfilling our mission.
Jonah Geller, CEO, York JCC
