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In Judaism, the number 18 has special significance.
It symbolizes life because, in gematria (Jewish numerology), it correlates with the Hebrew word "chai," meaning "alive" or "living." This celebration of being alive is why Jewish people so often wear the chai symbol, and it's why they give gifts in multiples of $18 for bar mitzvahs and weddings.
And it is what makes the 36th anniversary of the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center in Boca Raton, starting in 2019, so special.
"Our 'double chai' anniversary will be at the forefront of everything we do throughout the year," says Randy Colman, the JCC's executive director, "with the highlight of our celebration happening at Jeans, Jewels & The J - the Levis JCC's annual key fundraising event."
Established in 1983, the JCC provides a wide range of services to members of the local community, both Jewish and non-Jewish. Colman, who has been with the organization for six years, takes pride in the important role it plays.
"The Levis JCC promotes and enhances Jewish culture, heritage and values through educational, spiritual, social, wellness and recreational programs," he says.
The JCC, which is affiliated with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, provides a little something for everybody, Colman says, including programs for children and adults with special needs and their families. The Betty & Marvin Zale Early Childhood Learning Center cares for newborns through pre-K, and the Marleen Forkas Camp is a source of summertime memories for children through 10th grade. And, for adults, the Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center has a variety of art and educational activities - not to mention a Sport & Wellness Center.
Going forward, Colman says the JCC will continue its mission to enrich the community it serves. The organization plans on expanding its special needs programming and developing what Colman calls an "east side" presence, reaching out beyond the JCC's west Boca location to serve residents of east Boca as well.
"Each day, through our programs and services, we make an impact on people's lives in our community," he says. "We are proud of our history and will continue to serve our community while making an impact." O
For more information, call 561-852-3200 or visit levisjcc.org.
