The Mandel Jewish Community Center connects the community through an array of dynamic recreational, social and educational programs that support physical well-being, and foster lifelong learning and healthy aging. Our programs provide opportunities for adults of all ages to explore the arts, learn about Jewish life and culture, and engage in thought-provoking dialogue with peers about contemporary issues.
ART
Intro to Watercolors
This class offers a comprehensive introduction to watercolor painting, perfect for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Participants will learn basic techniques like color mixing, brush control, and wet-on-wet and dry painting methods, building a strong foundation for artistic expression in this medium.
Mondays, Sept 8-Oct 13
1-2:30 pm
Members $120; Community $135
Artistic Expressions of Judaic
Themes: Celebrating the Holidays and New Year
Embrace the spirit of the holidays and the New Year! Engage with the rich cultural and religious tapestry of Judaism by creating their own mosaic that reflect these traditions. Join us on a journey of creativity and connection as we honor the beauty and significance of Judaic themes.
Thursday, Sept 11 1-3 pm
Members $50; Community $60
CMA at The J
The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) brings their collection to The J for an exciting opportunity to explore three diverse collections. Participants will have the chance for hands-on interaction with artifacts that showcase human ingenuity and creativity. Explore the intriguing intersections of art, functionality, and cultural practices across various historical contexts. Join us on this journey through time and creativity to enhance your understanding of how art and culture have shaped our world, both in the past and present!
Thursdays, Oct 16, Oct 30 and Nov 13 2-3 pm
Members $15; Community $25
Register online at mandeljcc.org/adult-programs
Contact us at healthyaging@mandeljcc.org or 216-593-6283
Intermediate Watercolors
This class builds on basic techniques to help students develop their skills and explore more complex aspects of watercolor painting. Students will learn advanced techniques, explore color theory, and experiment with different subject matter, all while developing their personal artistic style.
Mondays: Nov 3-Dec 8
1-3 pm
Members $160; Community $180
STRONG & STEADY
The Pillars of Senior Wellness
The goal of this program is to use Yoga to teach methods for maintaining and improving strength, balance and flexibility, for bone health and for prevention of falls. No prior yoga practice is required and multiple levels of flexibility and strength are expected. Proper posture and alignment will be taught to help learn how to twist and forward fold. Discussion of nutrition will include calcium, Vitamin D and protein needs as we age. The safe use of weights and aerobic exercise in aging will be discussed and demonstrated.
Instructors: Johanna Goldfarb, M.D. is a Yoga Alliance certified yogi.
Jill Stovsky, MEd, RDN, is a registered dietitian and exercise physiologist, who has extensive knowledge of nutritional needs and exercise as we age to support bone health.
Thursdays, Aug 21-Sept 25
11:30 am -12:30 pm
Members $45; Community $60
Pickleball for Mobility and Balance
Designed for beginners who are interested in playing Pickleball as a casual hobby to stay active. The focus will be on enhancing overall coordination, balance and agility, while playing a fun game.
1-2 pm
Session 1:
Thursdays, Sept 4-25
Members $50; Community $60
Session 2:
Thursdays, Dec 4-18
Members $38; Community $45
Balance and Falls Prevention
Raise fall prevention knowledge and awareness, introduce steps to reduce falls and improve health and well-being. Learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable, set realistic goals to increase activity, change the environment to reduce fall risk factors, and exercise to increase strength and balance. Individuals with mobility issues can enhance their balance and safety, while those without any impairments can still benefit by maintaining their current health status and preventing future problems.
1-2 pm
Session 1:
Tuesday, Sept 16
Members $10; Community $15
Session 2:
Tuesday, Dec 16
Members $10; Community $15
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy this classic game.
Mah Jongg Fridays • 1-3 pm • Free
EDUCATION
Civil War Stories: Seven-week Lecture with Steve Schecter
We’ll look at what you did not learn in high school and correct some of the lies that were taught. The class highlights interesting personalities from women spies to comparing Lincoln and Jefferson Davis, meeting slave Robert Smalls who stole a confederate ship, and the doctor, Major Jonathan Letterman, that developed how soldiers in the North were treated. The North, based on population, industry, and money should have easily won the war within two years. We will explore why this did not happen.
Fridays: Sept 5- Oct 17
11 am-12 pm
Members $63; Community $70
Smartphone Literacy
Improve confidence and smartphone skills, covering phone basics, making calls and sending texts, connecting to Wi-Fi, operating the camera, and using apps. Participants will engage in interactive sessions, and a Q&A for any lingering questions. Perfect for beginners, this course will empower you to navigate your device with confidence.
Friday, Sept 5 10-11 am
Free
Cleveland Jewish FilmFest
September 4-14
News of the Week
Join us while historian and educator Terry Pollack, unravels the historical context behind today’s national events. This is your chance to dive deep into significant moments in history and how they shape our present! Engage in lively discussions, share your insights, and pose your burning questions.
9:45-11 am
Session 1
Mondays, Sept 8-Oct 27
Members $76; Community $88
Session 2
Mondays, Dec 1-15
Members $29; Community $33
Intro to Mah Jongg
Mah Jongg matches one’s playing pieces, called tiles, to a set of possible hands. It is a very social game played around a table with four players. This introductory class will teach the basic rules of play, strategies, tips, switching hands and more. Fee includes the current mah jongg card.
Continue building your skills during drop-in Mah Jongg on Fridays at 1 pm.
Fridays, Sept 19-Oct 10
1-2:30 pm
Members $48; Community $58
Cooking Demonstration with University Hospitals
Join University Hospitals for a fun and interactive cooking demonstration where you’ll watch our chef prepare a delicious, nutritious meal step-by-step. Learn helpful tips on ingredient selection, meal prep, and healthy cooking techniques you can try at home. Tastings and recipes will be provided.
Free SAVE THE DATES
Friday, Oct 3 12-1 pm
SPECIAL EVENT!
Lifelong Wellness Day • Sept 28
10-3 pm • Mandel JCC
Embrace the spirit of sustainability with slow flow exercise and lectures on environmentalism at our second Senior Day. The day will include classes, lectures, lunch, an upcycled craft project and a complementary three-day pass to the Mandel JCC valid through October 1.
At 2 pm join us for Sustainable Nation, a documentary about three Israelis doing their part to bring sustainable water solutions to the world.
Members: $25; Community $35
Connecting Our Seniors to Technology
Unlock the digital world with Benjamin Rose’s Connecting Our Seniors to Technology (COST) program, tailored specifically for individuals aged 55 and older. Over six weeks, you’ll learn fundamental skills, starting with an introduction to computers, keyboarding, and understanding operating systems, progressing to internet basics, email, and Zoom. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a FREE laptop and an internet subsidy for up to a year, empowering you to confidently engage with technology.
Tuesdays, Oct 21-Nov 25 2-4 pm
Free
SAVE THE DATES
Cleveland Jewish Book Festival
• Pre-event October 21
• November 10-December 4
• March 4-23, 2026
Recognizing and Avoiding Elder Financial Abuse, Scams
& Fraud
An informative course dedicated to recognizing and preventing elder financial exploitation. Learn how to identify scams, safeguard against identity and medical identity theft, and access resources for pulling credit reports to protect your financial health. We will cover essential steps for reporting financial exploitation and implementing effective safeguards to protect personal information.
Friday, Nov 14 10-11 am Free
FOR CAREGIVERS
Navigating Long-Term Care: Essential Insights and Strategies for Families
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of long-term care, focusing on the challenges and choices faced by individuals and families. It covers key topics such as the operational changes in long-term care facilities post-COVID-19, reimbursement systems through Medicare and Medicaid, and the financial implications of long-term care costs exceeding $100,000 annually. Participants will learn about options for maintaining independence while living at home, selecting the right facility, and navigating the admission process. Through engaging discussions, participants will gain practical knowledge and resources to aid in making informed decisions regarding long-term care.
Thursdays, Oct 16-Nov 6
6:30-7:30 pm Members Free; Community $20
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Alzheimer’s is not normal aging. It’s a disease of the brain that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. Join us to learn about the impacts of Alzheimer’s, the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, Alzheimer’s disease stages and risk factors, current research and treatments available to address some symptoms, and Alzheimer’s Association resources.
Wednesday, Oct 22
5-6 pm
Members Free; Community $10
The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause changes in memory, thinking and behavior that interfere with daily life. Join us to learn about 10 common warning signs and what to watch for in yourself and others. The one-hour program covers typical age-related changes, common warning signs of Alzheimer’s, how to approach someone about memory concerns, early detection, the benefits of early detection and diagnosis, and Alzheimer’s Association resources.
Tuesday, Nov 18
5-6 pm
Members Free; Community $10
Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body
For centuries, we’ve known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science is able to provide insights into how to optimize our physical and cognitive health as we age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.
Tuesday, Dec 2 5-6 pm
Members Free; Community $10
TRIPS
Harvest Delights: A Day of Apple Picking and Honey
Prepare for the holidays with apple picking and visiting a local kosher honey producer. We’ll visit Patterson’s Fruit Farm for a wagon ride around the orchards and we’ll have an opportunity to pick apples.
Wednesday, Sept 17
10 am-3 pm
Members $56, Community $65
Register online at mandeljcc.org/adult-programs Contact us at healthyaging@mandeljcc.org or 216-593-6283
Explore the Beauty of Ashtabula
County: A Tour of Scenic Bridges Amid Fall Colors
Experience the vibrant fall colors in scenic Ashtabula County. Discover 10 remarkable bridges, including both the longest and shortest covered bridges in the area. This tour features a 20-minute stop at Byler’s Amish Bakery, as well as a break for a boxed Kosher lunch. Each bus can accommodate 12 people, and a total of four buses are available. We will be reserving one bus at a time, please join the waitlist.
Wednesday, Oct 22
10 am-4 pm
Members $65; Community $75
Dvořák’s New World Symphony
Join us at Severance Hall for Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony. Informed by African American spirituals, Indigenous melodies, and Czech folk songs, Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony proceeds from one memorable tune to another, including its exquisitely yearning slow movement and rollicking finale.
We will arrive one hour before the concert for a lecture to learn about the music. This trip will be on a school bus.
Friday, Nov 21
9:30 am-12:30 pm
Members $65; Community $75
JEWISH LIFE
Bite-Sized Torah: Monthly Lunch and Learn
Enjoy your lunch at the Mandel JCC with a side of Jewish learning! Each month we host a lunch and learn led by a different community rabbi or educator on a variety of engaging new topics. Bring your own brown-bag lunch, and desserts or goodies will be provided. All Jewish learning backgrounds are welcome, no Hebrew or text skills required.
Wednesdays, Sept 3, Oct 29, Nov 19
12-1 pm
Members Free; Community $5
J Family Days
Our Jewish Life and Culture team provides an array of interactive and engaging programming perfect for parents, grandparents, and caregivers with their young children. Monthly and seasonal events and programs celebrate Jewish holidays while exploring Jewish traditions, culture, and values, offering families fun opportunities to learn and play together.
J Family Day: Rosh Hashanah Sunday, Sept 21 10-11:30 am Free
Pizza in the Hut Sunday, Oct 12 11:30 am-1 pm Members $5/person; Community $7/person
J Family Day: Book Fest Sunday, Nov 16 10-11:30 am Free
Intro to Judaism
Learn about Jewish holidays and life cycle events, major periods in Jewish history, and significant Jewish concepts through lecture, engaging text study, meaningful dialogue, and exploration in the community. Class will be taught in four sections with different Rabbinic instructors for each section.
7-9 pm
Session 1 begins Thur Oct 23
Session 2 begins Thur, Dec 4
Session 3 begins Thur, Jan 15
Session 4 begins Tues, Feb 24
Members: $202.50; Community $225
Young Families Open Gym
Get out of the cold and join us in The J’s gymnasium for large muscle activities such as biking, balls, play mats, and more! Meet other young families and enjoy a safe space to release that winter energy. Good for families with children ages 0-6.
Sunday, Oct 26
Sunday, Nov 23
9:30-11:30 am
Members Free; Community$15 / family
Mitzvah Morning
Spend the morning at The J engaging in family-friendly community service projects and service learning. Learn what is Jewish about community service and participate in projects that will benefit local organizations and those in need.
Thursday, Dec 25 • 9:30-11 am • Free Mandel JCC Stonehill Auditorium
ARTS AND CULTURE
A Commemoration of October 7 in Film
Sunday, Oct 5 11 am • Mandel JCC Free
Staged Reading: Rights of Passage
Written by Kitty Dubin
Directed by Mitchell Fields
Equal parts comedy and drama, Rights of Passage is a group of five vignettes that explore the defining moments in the journey of life from bris to shiva.
Sunday, Oct 26 • 3 pm Monday, Oct 27 • 7:30 pm Mandel JCC Free, suggested donation of $10/person
Cleveland Jewish FilmFest Jack & Minda Jaffe Audience Award Encore Screening
A free screening of the film voted audience favorite at the 2025 Cleveland Jewish FilmFest.
Contact us at healthyaging@mandeljcc.org or 216-593-6283
PROGRAM CALENDAR
August
Aug 21 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
Aug 28 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
September
Sept 3 Bite-Sized Torah noon-1 pm
Sept 4 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
Sept 4 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Sept 4-14 Cleveland Jewish FilmFest
Sept 5 Smartphone Literacy 10-11 am
Sept 5 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Sept 7 Shining Star CLE 6:30 pm
Sept 8 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Sept 8 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
Sept 11 Artistic Expressions of Judaic Themes 1-3 pm
Sept 11 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
Sept 11 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Sept 12 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Sept 15 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Sept 15 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
Sept 16 Balance and Falls Prevention 1-2 pm
Sept 17 Harvest Delights 10 am-3 pm
Sept 18 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
Sept 18 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Sept 19 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Sept 19 Intro to Mah Jongg 1-2:30 pm
Sept 21 J Family Day: Rosh Hashanah 10-11:30 am
Sept 22 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Sept 22 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
Sept 25 The Pillars of Senior Wellness 11:30 am-12:30 pm
Sept 25 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Sept 26 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Sept 26 Intro to Mah Jongg 1-2:30 pm
Sept 28 Lifelong Wellness Day 10 am-3 pm
Sept 29 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Sept 29 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
October
Oct 3 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Oct 3 Cooking Demo with University Hospitals noon-1 pm
Oct 3 Intro to Mah Jongg 1-2:30 pm
Oct 5 A Commemoration of Oct 7 in Film 11 am
Oct 6 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Oct 6 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
Oct 10 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Oct 10 Intro to Mah Jongg 1-2:30 pm
Oct 12 Pizza in the Hut 11:30 am-1 pm
Oct 13 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Oct 13 Intro to Watercolors 1-2:30 pm
Oct 16 CMA at The J 2-3 pm
Oct 16 Navigating Long-Term Care 6:30-7:30 pm
Oct 17 Civil War Stories 11 am-noon
Oct 20 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Oct 21 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
Oct 22 Explore the Beauty of Ashtabula County 10 am-4 pm
Oct 22 Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia 5-6 pm
Oct 23 Intro to Judaism Session One 7-9 pm
Oct 23 Navigating Long-Term Care 6:30-7:30 pm
Oct 26 Young Families Open Gym 9:30-11:30 am
Oct 26 Staged Reading: Rights of Passage 3 pm
Oct 27 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Oct 27 Staged Reading: Rights of Passage 7:30 pm
Oct 28 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
Oct 29 Bite-Sized Torah noon-1 pm
Oct 30 CMA at The J 2-3 pm
Oct 30 Navigating Long-Term Care 6:30-7:30 pm
Register online at mandeljcc.org/adult-programs Contact us at healthyaging@mandeljcc.org or 216-593-6283
November
Nov 2 Jack & Minda Jaffe Award Encore Screening 1 pm
Nov 3 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Nov 4 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
Nov 6 Navigating Long-Term Care 6:30-7:30 pm
Nov 10 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Nov 11 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
Nov 13 CMA at The J 2-3 pm
Nov 14 Recognizing & Avoiding Elder Abuse 10-11 am
Nov 16 J Family Day: Book Fest 10-11:30 am
Nov 17 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Nov 18 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
Nov 18 The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s 5-6 pm
Nov 19 Bite-Sized Torah noon-1 pm
Nov 21 Dvořák’s New World Symphony 9:30-12:30 pm
Nov 23 Young Families Open Gym 9:30-11:30 am
Nov 24 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Nov 25 Connecting Our Seniors to Technology 2-4 pm
December
Dec 1 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Dec 1 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Dec 2 Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body 5-6 pm
Dec 4 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Dec 4 Intro to Judaism Session Two 7-9 pm
Dec 8 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Dec 8 Intermediate Watercolors 1-3 pm
Dec 11 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Dec 15 News of the Week 9:45-11 am
Dec 16 Balance and Falls Prevention 1-2 pm
Dec 18 Pickleball for Mobility and Balance 1-2 pm
Dec 25 Mitzvah Morning 9:30-11 am
January 2026
Jan 15 Intro to Judaism Session 3 7-9 pm
February
Feb 24 Intro to Judaism Session 4 7-9 pm
Shining Star CLE is an inclusive singing competition showcasing the best of Northeast Ohio’s talented teens. Music plays a vital role in uniting communities and fostering shared experiences. Funds raised through this event allow us to both grow creative youth programming and enhance aging-in-place senior services. Sept 7, 2025 • 6:30 pm • Playhouse Square Purchase Your Tickets Today! Join us and help make dreams come true! Proceeds from the event help fund youth and senior programming in our community. For tickets or to become a sponsor: • Visit shiningstarcle.org • Scan the QR code • Call Katie at 216-593-6214
