Recognizing those who aid the JCC

The Jewish Community Center (JCC) of the Greater Five Towns held its annual board meeting and volunteer recognition ceremony on June 24, where its board members were installed and a brief report was presented on the organization’s activities before audience of more than 100 people.
Executive Director, Joel Block, spoke about what the JCC is best known for, changing people’s lives. “There are two groups of people here who help,” he said. “One is the staff who works tirelessly on your behalf. The second is the board. They make it possible to make dreams come true.”
One dream coming true is the establishment of the JCC’s Early Childhood Center. “I’m excited, committed and enthusiastic to bring this organization to the next level,” said board member Craig Spatz. “We are in the midst of cementing a final home at Temple Israel for our early childhood day care center. We’re getting there and we’ll be there shortly.”
The organization honored volunteers such as Janine Mazur, a school psychology student returning for her doctorate degree, who volunteered with JCC’s Play Golf program that helps special-needs youths and young adults learn the game.
“Volunteering is important because the children look forward to playing time and the time they spend with us volunteers,” she said. “This allows me to learn how to keep working with children with disabilities. I also get the chance to give back to my community. I’m thankful to the JCC for allowing me to participate in the Play Golf program.”
Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray was on hand to swear in the board members. “I’m going to share with you my favorite quote,” she said. “Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless,” she said. “It’s because they are priceless.”