Our Mission
The mission of the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston is to develop and strengthen Jewish identity, foster Jewish values and enrich the Jewish community and the greater community.
“Behold how good and pleasant it is when all people live together as one.” – Psalm 133
Guided by the wise words of the Psalmist, the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC commits to build, nurture and elevate a culture of belonging in which we welcome, recognize and celebrate people of all backgrounds, abilities and identities in accessible, safe settings.
Deepening connections to Jewish culture, heritage and Israel continues to be central to the mission of the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC. Through an evolving mix of programs— spanning lectures, classes, performances, film and culinary experiences—the J offers meaningful ways for individuals of all ages to engage with ideas, traditions and stories that resonate both locally and globally.
Bringing teens together through food and creativity, Teens in the Kitchen engaged more than 50 participants in hands-on cooking experiences in the Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio, building skills, exploring cuisines and fostering connection. Supported by a grant from the Houston Jewish Community Foundation, the program continues to create accessible and engaging entry points to culinary learning.
This year, Jewish cultural engagement expanded in new and exciting ways. With the support of a grant from the Yiddish Book Center, the J cohosted Oy Hanukkah: Nosh & Schmooze in partnership with Yiddish Vinkl at Kenny & Ziggy’s. This unique experience brought together more than 55 participants to explore traditional foods, language and storytelling in a lively, communal setting. From Yom Ha’Atzmaut and our Hanukkah menorah lighting to Torah study with our Shlichim and more, the J’s programs and celebrations continue to reflect the richness and diversity of Jewish life.
The Bobbi & Vic Samuels Center for Jewish Living and Learning continued to grow as a hub for exploration and education. The return of The Florence Melton School of Jewish Learning brought robust courses, engaging learners in deep and thoughtful study. Participants explored topics ranging from daily life in the medieval Jewish world through the Cairo Genizah to the enduring themes of leadership and transition in the Book of Deuteronomy. Additional offerings, including Treasures from the Archives, connected learners to the personal stories and historical moments that shaped Jewish life in Houston and South Texas.
Opportunities for meaningful dialogue remained strong throughout the year. The 17th Annual Rice University Lecture Series, Hebrew Culture Responding to Violence Before and After October 7th, convened artists and scholars whose work examines how culture reflects lived experience, memory and conflict. These conversations, along with ongoing classes and discussions, created space for reflection, learning and community connection.
The J’s signature arts and culture festivals continued to serve as powerful points of connection. The 53rd Annual Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival welcomed more than 4,000 attendees across 22 programs featuring 30 authors, with notable highlights including a dynamic
opening night with 1,000 attendees and a widely attended featured program drawing 750 participants. The 22nd Annual Houston Jewish Film Festival brought nearly 2,900 attendees together over 21 events, presenting a wide range of films and guest speakers that sparked conversation and connection. Across both festivals, participants consistently described their experiences as engaging, timely and deeply meaningful.
Additional performances and events further enriched the cultural landscape of the J. Productions such as The Last Yiddish Speaker drew hundreds of attendees, and programs like Bubby’s Kitchen and the Rise Up: Heroes Independence Concert created opportunities for celebration and connection. These arts and culture programs underscore the J’s role as a vibrant gathering place where Jewish culture and community continue to thrive.
8,000 attendees throughout arts and culture season
300 attendees at Yom Ha’Atzmaut
49 arts and culture community partners
101 classes held in the Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio
“From my perspective, it was a perfect evening. I can’t remember having such an exceptional opening program. I knew Rabbi Angela Buchdahl would be great but somehow she managed to exceed my expectations.” - Esther L.
6,740+ personal training sessions
2,000+ tennis lessons
37 inaugural JETS swim team members
1,800+ Reformer Pilates sessions
151 Houston Gymnastics Center team members
“The organization, professionalism and coaching guidance at this gymnastics program amaze me every time I take my kids. I’ve watched their confidence grow, and their strength and gymnastics skills have improved tremendously. We all look forward to this class every week!”
- Elisheva M.
Health and wellness at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC is powered by community. Now serving over 11,000 individuals across 3,890+ households, the J continues to be a place where people prioritize their health, find connection and discover a sense of belonging. With the support of financial assistance as well, we are committed to making these opportunities accessible to all.
Members benefit from a dynamic and comprehensive approach to health and fitness , with access to a state-of-theart fitness center, group exercise classes, personal training and specialized programs designed for all ages and abilities. From highenergy workouts to restorative practices, the J provides options for all ages and stages, giving members the ability to pursue their personal wellness goals in a supportive and engaging environment.
Growth across our fitness offerings has been significant. Personal training sessions increased by 41% and Reformer Pilates more than doubled in participation. Teen engagement also remained a key focus, with 280+ youth actively participating in fitness programs designed to build confidence, strength and lifelong healthy habits.
Aquatics continues to play a vital role in youth development and safety, serving 738 children through non-camp offerings. The launch of our new swim team—the J’s Excellent Team of Swimmers (JETS)—in January 2026 marked an exciting addition.
Tennis experienced remarkable growth as well, seeing a 41% increase from the previous year. Youth participation remains strong, with more than 415 children engaged in tennis programming. Pickleball continues to thrive as a popular social sport, and our longstanding men’s basketball leagues and open play opportunities foster connection and friendly competition among members.
The Houston Gymnastics Center at the J continues to distinguish itself as one of the premier training facilities in the country. With 151 team members and expert coaching, the program supports athletes at every level. This year, five graduating seniors committed to NCAA programs, including the University of California, Berkeley, Baylor University, the United States Military Academy at West Point and Greenville University—an inspiring reflection of the dedication and excellence cultivated within the program.
At the J, families across generations come together to learn, play and grow in an environment designed to nurture curiosity and connection. From early childhood education to teen leadership and family engagement experiences, we serve as a vibrant hub where families and friends build meaningful memories and lasting relationships.
Early childhood education remains at the heart of our work. For more than 35 years, we continue to nurture young learners from baby steps to big leaps, setting the standard for early childhood education excellence. The Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School and newly renamed Bertha Alyce Early Childhood Academy continue to provide dynamic, valuesbased learning environments grounded in Jewish life and tradition. Children experience a balance of structure, creativity and joy, under dedicated leadership and a commitment to individual exploration, inclusion and handson learning.
The Sherry Merfish Infant Care Program and the Karol Musher STARS Early Childhood Intervention Program remain strong pillars of Bertha Alyce Academy, supporting individualized care and development from infancy through early childhood. From Snacks in the Sukkah and all-school Shabbats to Hanukkah and Purim celebrations, our schools create meaningful opportunities for families to come together throughout the year.
Beyond the classroom, family engagement programming continues to grow in both reach and creativity. This year’s Latkes on the Lawn drew more than 200 participants, alongside festive programs including Dreidel Disco and performances by the Crescent Circus that delighted audiences across generations.
The indoor playscape now features a playscape toddler experience twice per week, building community among parents, grandparents and caregivers through stories, songs and movement. A new creativity station allows older siblings to remain engaged and welcomed.
Through School’s Out Help Out, families partnered with Repair the World for five service programs, engaging in hands-on projects with organizations including Seven Acres, Meals on Wheels, Undies for Everyone and Plant It Forward. Handstands and Havdalah remains a popular program blending Jewish ritual, movement and community.
J Camps continues to grow each summer, expanding in both enrollment and the range of experiences offered. From preschool through 10th grade, more than 1,560 campers made 2025 our biggest summer yet. Following a spring 2025 transformation, the Gershen Family Playground reopened in time for summer with inclusive, thoughtfully designed equipment that invites children of
all abilities to play and explore. Hundreds of children have enjoyed this vibrant space throughout the year, bringing new energy and joy to our campus every day.
The J continues to offer enrichment and after-school programming, where creativity and connection thrive. The J’s youth theatre program returned to the Junior Theatre Festival in Sacramento, California, where 23 students ages 8 to 18 performed selections from Matilda JR., earning an Excellence in Music award, with additional recognition in the Tech Olympics competition.
Teen leadership and service opportunities also continue to expand. The J-Teen Philanthropy Initiative awarded more than $12,000 to organizations supporting domestic violence services and healthcare access. Additionally, 24 students representing nine area high schools graduated from the Target Teen Leadership Program, a semesterlong experience focused on leadership development, community engagement and personal growth.
185 students in CenterStage seasonal youth theatre productions
1,568 campers during summer 2025 at J Camps 60+ participants at the inaugural Repair the World Teen Service Day
$12,000 awarded by J-Teen Philanthropy Initiative to organizations across Houston
“We struggled to find an inclusion program for our son, Ethan, who is on the spectrum and feel blessed that we discovered the STARS program through a friend. STARS provides certified special needs teachers and integrated therapies... delivered by some of the best therapists in town. From the very first day, we felt completely welcomed and supported.”
- Shenglan H.
Connection, service and shared responsibility remain at the core of the J’s mission. Across Houston and Southeast Texas, meaningful programs and partnerships create opportunities for individuals to support one another and strengthen the broader community.
Through Meals on Wheels at the J, essential care reaches hundreds of older adults each year, providing nourishment and connection. More than 104,800 meals were delivered to 521 individuals over the last year, along with 345 grocery-filled bags, ensuring consistent access to food while fostering a sense of dignity, independence and human connection.
Funded by grants through AmeriCorps Seniors, the J also mobilizes hundreds of senior volunteers in service to others. The Foster Grandparent Program engaged 38 volunteers who served 239 youth through more than 32,000 hours of mentorship and academic support. Their impact throughout Harris County is significant: all participating students increased assignment completion, 79% improved academically and 96% of pre-K students demonstrated gains in school readiness.
The Senior Companion Program provided more than 23,000 hours of service from 34 volunteers supporting 58 older adults in Harris County, helping them remain independent. In recognition
of Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, the program also led a community-wide initiative that collected nearly 800 books for veterans at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. With handwritten notes of appreciation placed throughout the collection, the effort offered comfort and connection to those receiving care.
The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) engaged more than 775 volunteers who served over 23,700 individuals across Southeast Texas. Their efforts supported critical food pantry services and provided fraud and scam prevention education to over 1,500 individuals through partnership with the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol.
Together, these efforts reflect the power of community in action—where service, compassion and connection come together to create meaningful and lasting impact.
104,814 meals delivered through Meals on Wheels at the J 32,000+ hours of mentorship and academic support through Foster Grandparents 23,000+ hours of service from 34 Senior Companion volunteers 777 volunteers served 23,713 individuals across the region through RSVP
“I have been provided with a loving extended family through Meals On Wheels. Every day my gratitude expands, and I am enriched by their joyful hearts that are filled with loving kindness, overflowing with promise and hope.” - Carla W.
1,887
kosher lunches
through the Senior Congregate Lunch Program
120 play days of mahjong and canasta
3 bus trips
Coushatta Casino, Kenny & Ziggy’s and Nutcracker Market
“I have been coming to the J for almost 6 years and participate regularly in the bingo, exercise and senior lunch programs. I have made some dear friends here who helped me celebrate my 101 birthday! It feels like home for me.”
- Rose S.
Each day at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, our adults 60+ community brings energy, curiosity and connection to life. Whether gathering for a shared meal, friendly game or meaningful discussion, participants find more than just programming; they find community, purpose and lasting relationships.
In 2025, 1,880+ kosher lunches were served, creating consistent opportunities for food, fellowship and conversation. The senior lounge remains a lively hub, where mahjong and canasta players gather regularly. Participants often comment on their joyful newfound friendships, a true reflection of the strong sense of community that defines the J.
Lifelong learning continues to be a cornerstone of the J with programs that reflect both timely issues and enduring interests. This year’s offerings explored topics ranging from artificial intelligence and technology best practices to programs honoring Women’s History Month and meaningful discussions on current events, including the rise of antisemitism following October 7. These opportunities for learning and dialogue ensure that our community remains informed, enriched and engaged with the world around us.
Whether through social gatherings, games, lectures or shared meals, our vibrant and supportive environment provides older adults with spaces and experiences to build relationships, stay active and continue to learn and grow.
Amid a dazzling display of Vintage Vegas glitz and glamour, the J’s 36th Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball took place on February 28, 2026 with over 550 guests in attendance. The evening celebrated the legacy of the Children’s Scholarship Fund’s founder Irvin Kaplan by honoring his son Joe Kaplan along with Murray Kalmin for their longstanding commitment to supporting local children and families.
The event broke fundraising records, raising over $1,000,000 for the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund. This fund provides financial assistance for the J’s early childhood education and camp programs, opening doors for families and children that would otherwise be closed. Beneficiary programs include Bertha Alyce Early Childhood Academy, Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School, Sherry Merfish Infant Care Program, Karol Musher STARS Early Childhood Intervention Program and J Camps. This year’s Children’s Scholarship Ball ensures the long-lasting impact of this important cause.
Perhaps the highlight of the night was teenager Ella Bibi’s beautiful rendition of Hodaya Hayut’s song You Have Yourself
A long-term participant of the J’s youth and theatre program, Bibi joined the program after relocating to Houston from Israel with her family. As a young girl in a new country with a new language, being part of the J’s youth and theatre program gave her a sense of community, confidence and identity as she discovered her extraordinary talents for singing and performing. Her performance at the Children’s Scholarship Ball highlights the significant impact the J has on instilling courage, purpose and joy in the younger generation.
More than $1,000,000 raised in total
