A LIFE-LONG JOURNEY OF LEADERSHIP

“Giving back and being a vital part of the community is more important than ever before” Peter Horowitz explains that this is why he was drawn to being part of a passionate group of individuals dedicated to building our JCC. He is a founding Board member and has served on the JCC Board of Directors since our doors opened in 1999, including a term as President from 2009-2011. Peter feels that there is an opportunity for everyone to get involved at the J. There are many different ways to give back to the community and help make it stronger than ever. You can make a positive impact, whether you prefer to roll up your sleeves, help make phone calls, support through a donation, and/or leave a legacy gift. There is something for everyone. Peter beams with pride when reflecting on how the JCC has evolved over the past 24 years, attracting both Jewish and non-Jewish families to our thriving and vibrant Center. “People know the type of facility we are and what we offer the community. They are drawn to our JCC knowing the quality programs and services we offer.” Peter is proud of our success because today’s JCC truly has something for everyone! Having spent his adolescence competing in sports and socializing at YM-YWHA, in Union NJ, Peter has first-hand experience with how important a role a JCC can have in one’s life. The JCC has been an important part of my life forever, he acknowledges. It sparked a lifetime of special relationships with dozens of friends whom he remains close to today. When Peter and his wife Andrea- who was active in her teen years at the Bayonne JCC, settled in Bridgewater, they thought it was imperative to have a local JCC. They knew it was important for kids to have a safe place to gather. His three daughters, Allie, Dana, and Rachel made their own connections working multiple jobs and participating in many activities, at the J over the years. “You want to talk about L”Dor V’Dor, Peter proclaims. The SSBJCC is an integral part of all our lives.”

Peter’s own involvement included playing in the Men’s Basketball League for almost 20 years until he was forced to “retire” due to an injury. “He really misses playing and the people he played with”. It was about a year ago that Peter turned to our fitness team to help keep active. He is proud to say that he has worked hard and is in the best shape that he has been in, in years. Perhaps one of Peter’s favorite activities is helping with camp lunch. Peter has spent many years, coming on Wednesday afternoons to cook thousands of hamburgers and hotdogs for all the campers!

When Peter’s mother Irma passed away, he wanted to honor her in a very memorable way. Peter said, “Andrea and I established an endowment fund and created the Irma Horowitz Film series.” The Irma Horowitz Film series was founded in 2018 and has shown over 50 films since its inception. Hundreds of people have been introduced to Israeli films as well as films that have Jewish content. Peter says “I love these film events and leading the discussions. We always have a lively group! I think my mother would be happy knowing that a JCC program was named for her.”

The most impressive part of the JCC is not just the beautiful facility that rivals anything in the area, but also its reach. Peter declares “The JCC is a great unifier of the Community. When Peter walks into our building, it is with a great sense of pride and accomplishment. “We are a special place, where all feel welcome from the moment they walk in the doors. The JCC touches more people in more ways through its robust and inclusive programs and services. It’s open, warm, and friendly to all and the dedicated staff choose to be here. I can’t imagine the community without this vibrant, active hub.”

Over 300 Active Volunteers

Over 45 Volunteer Opportunities