Harrisburg Jewish Community Center- Harrisburg, PA
Reading your paper reminded me in some ways of the location that I chose to explore in my own paper - a rock climbing gym in Northern California. Similar to the Jewish Community Center, the membership fees and day pass rates at the climbing gym are extremely high. Despite the fact that it is in an accessible physical location, the climbing gym is not easily accessible to many people due to these costs. A question that came to mind when I read this was - are there services/events that the JCC provides that do not require a membership fee?
Yes, there are events that do not require a membership fee. The Jewish Community Center hosts many outside groups that use the buildings space. For example, my youth group is not associated with the JCC, but holds meetings there. Members of the youth group do not have to pay to use the JCC's space.
In reply to Maddie Cohen
Re: Harrisburg Jewish Community Center- Madeline Cohen
by Benjamin Meyers -
Hi Madeline! First and foremost I have to say your map is truly one of the best I have seen! Really impressive! I really enjoyed learning about the Harrisburg Jewish Community Center. You definitely were successful in proving your claim that the JCC was a node in this neighborhood. Additionally, your analysis and comparison between Harrisburg and Susquehanna are very well thought out. You mentioned the difference in school districts, and how proximity to the river plays into the socioeconomic differences between the two neighborhoods. One thing I would love to learn more about is how the JCC, being a location with a clear religious denomination, acts equally as a communal center to residents of the area. You mentioned how the JCC caters to many families with their childcare services. Does that mean that all families regardless of their religious preferences are welcome to use their services? Additionally, even if they are welcome, are non-Jewish residence comfortable using those services or, instead, would they seek out other locations that offer the same services. Just some thoughts that were going through my head as I read your paper. All in all, I really enjoyed it and think it's a great analysis of the Harrisburg JCC. Thanks for sharing!
In reply to Benjamin Meyers
Re: Harrisburg Jewish Community Center- Madeline Cohen
by Maddie Cohen -
Thank you so much! All families are welcome to the JCC regardless of religious affiliation. non-Jewish members are comfortable using the JCC's services. In fact, I know many people who are members, but are not Jewish. In the summer, I work as a counselor at the JCC's summer camp program and most of the children in my group are not Jewish. I find it is very interesting that non-Jewish children are able to grow up with Jewish friends and learn about their culture and religion. The JCC has an atmosphere that welcomes all types of faiths.
Hi Maddie! I really liked your paper and was very impressed with your map! In addition to the JCC's location and its ability to allow parents to drop their children off on their way to work, what other childcare services does the Harrisburg Jewish Community Center provide for the local families?