This is a place to keep learning, stay connected, and find your people. Our Arts, Community and Culture programming brings together adults of all ages and backgrounds for experiences that are as enriching as they are enjoyable. Films, author visits, music, classes, and community celebrations are thoughtfully curated to offer programs that resonate.
Join us for a meaningful and inspiring way to learn, socialize, and connect with community. Each season is thoughtfully curated to offer something that resonates, for every interest, every background, and every stage of adult life.
Additionally, our Adult Enrichment program features a wide selection of topics four days a week led by experienced professionals who share their deep breadth of knowledge. It’s open to the community and adults of all ages. Drop in throughout the month based on your interests and schedule or make it a regular part of your week. This programming may be accessed in-person or virtually. Daily senior exercise options and freshly prepared Kosher-style lunches are also a part of this program.
Learn something new. Connect with others. Enjoy the process.
There’s always something new to discover, create, or master in our adult classes. Knitting, mah jongg, canasta, bridge – each program offers its own opportunity to spark curiosity, build new skills, and connect with others who share your interests. Come for the class, stay for the connections.
Curious minds.
Meaningful conversations.
Discover meaningful ways to connect with community through engaging programs that inspire conversation, learning, and shared discovery. Whether gathering for a Lunch & Learn, enjoying cultural events, hearing from local experts, or exploring Jewish traditions and contemporary topics, Experiences offers opportunities to nourish the mind, spirit, and sense of belonging.
Great books start conversations.
Meet the authors behind them.
Join acclaimed authors for engaging conversations that explore the ideas, experiences, and histories woven into their work. From contemporary fiction and memoirs to Jewish history and culture, each event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the stories, and storytellers shaping our world today.
Stories that inspire conversation long after the credits roll.
The Malvin and Greta Roesch International Jewish Film Festival brings the world to our community through the power of cinema, celebrating Jewish culture, heritage, and storytelling from across the globe. Through our Lights, Camera, Conversation series, attendees are invited to continue the experience with thoughtful discussions that explore the themes, characters, and ideas each film brings to life.
Making memories that span generations.
Some of the most meaningful moments happen across generations. The Grandparents Circle is a warm, joyful community where grandparents and grandchildren come together to share experiences, build memories, and celebrate Jewish tradition side by side. From author events and art projects to story time and Shabbat celebrations, there’s always something meaningful happening and always more in store.
Stay connected with diverse and relevant daytime programs.
The Adult Enrichment program is its own world of discovery. Four days a week, experienced professionals lead engaging sessions across a wide range of topics, creating a space where adults can stay curious, stimulated, and socially connected. Come to one session a month or make it a regular part of your week. The option to exercise or join us for a freshly prepared Kosher-style lunch rounds out each visit.
Arts, Community and Culture programming at the JCC is one-of-a-kind in our larger community and enriches the lives of so many. As a Patron of the Arts, you support bringing people of all ages together through relevant and engaging seasonal line-ups of literature, film, music, classes and Jewish learning.
Watch at Your Convenience
We know you can’t make every event but don’t want to miss out! We record select author visits and have a great library that goes back several years. And we add to this list regularly. Check them out!
QUESTIONS?
Contact Randi Zucker, Director of Arts, Community and Culture, [email protected] or 908-889-8800 x253.
Contact Alison Rivlin, Adult Enrichment Director, at [email protected] or
908-889-8800 x260.
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Knitting Class – Beginner to Intermediate
Tuesdays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $140.00
Mah Jongg for Beginners – Daytime
Wednesdays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Price: $156.00
Mah Jongg for Beginners – Evening Session I
Mondays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $125.00
Mah Jongg for Beginners – Evening Session II
Mondays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $125.00
Beginner Canasta – Daytime Classes
Wednesdays, 3:15 PM – 5:15 PM
Price: $156.00
Lunch and Learn Series
Being Jewish Today with Rabbi Paul Kerbel of Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim
Wednesday, October 28 • 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Let’s explore the role religion, culture, race and nationality play in the Jewish experience. Rabbi Paul Kerbel is active in the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest and the Anti-Defamation League New Jersey Region.
Questions And Disagreements: Why Asking and Arguing are Sacred Jewish Traditions with Rabbi Steven Stern of Temple Beth O’r/Beth Torah
Wednesday, November 18 • 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Together, we’ll look at some of the most famous questions and disagreements in Jewish texts and sources.
How Did the Hebrew Bible Become the Hebrew Bible? with Rabbi Victor Appell of Temple Emanu-El, Westfield
Wednesday, December 16: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Who decided the Torah would be divided into 54 portions? Why are there double portions? Where did the Book of Maccabees go? We will answer these questions and many more as we learn how the Hebrew Bible became the text we have today.
The Malvin and Greta Roesch International Jewish Film Festival is committed to bringing you a diverse and enriching cinematic experience from Jewish communities around the globe, featuring films that celebrate Jewish culture, heritage and stories told through the lens of film.
Join us on our journey as we bring together community through the power of international films that showcase the mutual interests of the Jewish spirit, culture, traditions and humor.
Join us after the credits roll
Director: Guido Chiesa
Run Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Language: English with occasional Hebrew
Join us after the credits roll for Lights, Camera, Conversation – a welcoming space for movie-lovers to reflect, share perspectives and dive deeper into the themes, characters and emotions sparked by the film. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a cinema enthusiast, this is your chance to connect, process, and keep the story going.
All films will be shown at the Cranford Theater
25 North Avenue W in Cranford
Ticket Price:
At the Door: $18
Advance Purchase: $18
Member Advance Purchase Ticket Price: $15.30
Series Price: $85
Member Series Price: $72.25
Wednesday, October 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Director: Guido Chiesa
Run Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Language: English with occasional Hebrew
Set across two eras, For the Love of a Woman intertwines a gripping historical mystery with a haunting love story. In 1970s Israel, Esther (Mili Avital), an American woman burdened by the recent death of her mother, receives a letter that sets her on a journey to uncover a hidden chapter of her family’s past. With the guidance of Zayde, a university professor with secrets of his own, she seeks to unravel the mystery of a woman who once lived in Palestine in the 1930s.
That woman is Yehudit (Ana Ularu, in a captivating performance), whose arrival in a settlers’ village decades earlier transformed the lives of three men—a grieving widower, a dream-filled farmer, and a shrewd cattle trader. Their playful yet tragic entanglements ripple forward through time, culminating in revelations that forever alter Esther’s understanding of love, loss, and legacy.
Based on the beloved novel by Meir Shalev, The Loves of Judith, and weaving together past and present, For the Love of a Woman captures both the intimate fragility of desire and the enduring weight of history, culminating in a revelation as poignant as it is unexpected.
Tuesday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m.
Director: Jonathan Gruber
Run Time: 1 hour 17 minutes
Language: English
Centered brings to life the remarkable journey of Joe Lieberman, the late Senator who made history as the first Jewish Vice Presidential candidate – and nearly changed the course of American politics. Ever a trailblazer, Lieberman was known for his humor, his independence, and for prioritizing what he believed to be right – sometimes earning the ire of his longtime colleagues.
In an era where the political divide seems wider than ever, Lieberman’s story is more urgent and relevant every day. The film explores his life and career in ways that challenge us to think about the future of democracy and how we can find ways to work together, no matter our differences.
Michal Raucher, PhD, Associate Professor and Undergraduate Director, Department of Jewish Studies, Rutgers University will lead the post-film discussion.
In partnership with
Wednesday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Director: Paula Eiselt
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Language: English
A nostalgic journey through the rise and fall of a legendary Catskills resort becomes a vivid portrait of how a hillside haven grew into a sanctuary and proving ground for American Jewish life.
Founded in the late 1910s by Austrian Jewish immigrants shut out of mainstream vacation culture, Grossinger’s became the crown jewel of the Borscht Belt – an all-inclusive escape where Jewish identity thrived openly, without apology. More than a resort, it was a world unto itself. At its heart was Jennie Grossinger, the formidable matriarch who transformed a humble boarding house into an iconic institution. A trailblazer in hospitality, Jennie welcomed everyone, from Eleanor Roosevelt and Jackie Robinson to Hollywood stars and future comedy legends, advancing inclusion, women’s leadership, and cultural influence decades ahead of her time.
Luminous archival footage and affectionate interviews with family descendants, former staff, devoted guests, historians, and cultural figures including Judy Gold, Joel Grey, and Jackie Hoffman bring the heyday roaring back to life – Catskills nights buzzing with laughter, ardor ignited, and careers launched, where overflowing kosher tables mattered as much as the shows, swims, and swinging dance floor. From immigration and postwar optimism to assimilation and gradual decline driven by changing travel habits and lifestyles, this communal dram reflects the arc of a changing America.
Celebratory and deeply human, this lovingly crafted time capsule restores Grossinger’s to its rightful place, where the mountains were alive with possibility…and the proof that belonging, once found, truly never wanes.
David Moore, Executive Producer and Bob Friedman, CEO Bungalow Entertainment will lead post-film conversation
Sunday, October 25 at 5:00 p.m.
Director: Frank Van Passel
Run Time: 2 hours
Language: Dutch and French with English subtitles
On the eve of the German Invasion in 1940 Belgium, a tender attachment forms between a gifted young radio apprentice and a rising actress, their hopes colliding with a world edging toward war. Inside Brussel’s famed Flagey Building, 18-year old Berre – an introverted talent with a magical ear – rises from intern to sound engineer, crafting transportive live radio drama soundscapes that captivate Elza, a luminous on-air performer seeking joy in uncertain times. As their fragile bond deepens amid air-raid sirens and rising antisemitism, the radio studio becomes a haven where imagination and escape push back the gathering darkness. Through lyrical visuals, sumptuous period detail, and breathtaking use of sound, this singular prewar tale delivers an immersive WWII-era drama unlike any other.
Wednesday, October 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Director: Lior Chefetz
Run Time: 1 hour 53 minutes
Language: Hebrew with English subtitles
In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, The Stronghold delivers a heart-pounding and viscerally convincing portrayal of an Israeli army outpost on the Suez Canal, inspired by epic war films like Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, and The Pacific. As 42 soldiers endure relentless assaults, a young lieutenant and an army doctor face an agonizing choice: make a desperate last stand or gamble everything they believe in. Featuring outstanding performances from Israeli superstars Michael Aloni (Shtisel, We Were the Lucky Ones, Beauty Queens of Jerusalem), Daniel Gad (Shababnikim), Daniel Noreshet (also at the festival with Bliss), Ohad Knoller (Yossi, A Tale of Love and Darkness), and Uri Blufarb (also at the festival with Pink Lady), The Stronghold not only captivates with its gripping battle sequences, but also serves as a poignant reminder of the soldiers we lost, and more importantly, who they were as human beings.
This film is generously sponsored by
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Series Subscriber (all 5 films)
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price: $85.00
“Centered”
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price: $18.00
“We Met at Grossingers”
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price: $18.00
“Soundman”
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Price: $18.00
“Stronghold”
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price: $18.00
SUPPORT ARTS, COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Become a Patron of the Arts
Contact Randi Zucker, Director of Arts, Community & Culture at 908-889-8800 x253 or [email protected].
Welcome to ADULT ENRICHMENt
Daily schedule
Our Monday – Thursday in-person group begins each program day at 9:45 a.m. with a light snack and socializing.
Our daily exercise program follows both in-person and virtually from 10:15 – 11:00 a.m.
Our feature program is from 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. both in-person and virtually. (Classes that are not available virtually are noted.)
Our in-person group can choose to enjoy a well-balanced Kosher-style meal after the program.
transportation
Daily, roundtrip, door-to-door transportation to the JCC is available to most residents of Union County.
There is a $4 roundtrip fee.
Thank you to the Union County Division on Aging for their generous support of our transportation program.
kosher-style lunch
Lunch is served on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
The suggested voluntary donation is $1.75 for Union County residents (age 60+). No one is turned away due to inability to pay. To help cover the costs to the JCC, a $5 donation is appreciated.
Monthly menus are published at www.jccnj.org.
The Kosher-style lunch program is open to the community.
Registration
Most programs don’t require registration. Programs that require advance reservations are clearly marked with reservation required by date.
You must indicate if you will be joining us for lunch, when making your reservation.
To make a reservation, use the sign-up list at the JCC (at Wendy’s post) or contact Wendy at (908) 889-8800 x207 or [email protected].
Upcoming Daytime Programs
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Enjoy our program in several ways
JCC Senior Adult Membership
$69/month for individuals; $97/month for couples
(includes full use of the JCC facility including fitness center and pool)
Sign up here for a JCC Senior Adult Membership or contact Jodi Hotra, Membership Director, at [email protected] or 908-889-8800 x235.
JCC Senior Social Membership
$38/month for individuals; $45/month for couples
(includes in-person daily exercise and in-person morning programs offered through Adult Enrichment, no additional use of the JCC facility)
Sign up here for a Senior Social Membership or contact Wendy Connolly, at 908-889-8800 x207 or [email protected].
Community Participant Individual Pick & Choose In-Person Program $12/program and exercise, $5/exercise only
Join us in person for an individual program, no membership required. Pay the day of the program or register online for select programs.
Access us from your home
Virtual View Subscription
$24/month/household
(includes virtual-only access to daily exercise and morning programs)
Sign up here for a Virtual View subscription or call the JCC Members Services Desk at 908-889-8800 x200.
All member options (except community participants) receive discounted pricing for our Arts & Culture programs.
Zoom information will only be shared with those who have a JCC Senior Adult Membership, a JCC Senior Social Membership or a Virtual View Subscription.
Exercise can help maintain your mobility, balance, strength and flexibility. At the JCC, we offer light exercise classes from Monday – Thursday to help keep you fit and strong. All of our instructors are full trained to work with senior adults. We welcome all levels and encourage you to exercise at your own pace.
Price: $5/class
Member/Senior Social/Virtual Price: Free
L’Dor v’Dor
1. Noun
An amazing effort which has given grandparents the opportunity to connect and engage, not only with their grandchildren, but with friends and community too. We meet with authors, listen to stories, watch movies, do art projects and so much more! We gather together to enjoy Jewish tradition and get together for Shabbat celebrations. And we always have more in store! Join this fun, joyful group.
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Grandparent & Grandchild Memory Box Workshop (recommended age 18 months – 5 years old)
Wednesday, November 25, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Price: $36.00
Grandparent & Grandchild Camp Yachad Shabbat (recommended for campers age 5+)
Friday, January 8, 2027, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Price: $36.00
Kids Night Out: Grandparents Edition (Recommended for Afterschool Kids age Kindergarten – 7th grade)
Friday, January 8, 2027, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Price: $36.00
JCC120 Celebration
Saturday, November 21, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Price: $0.00
4s
Friday, January 15, 2027
9:00 a.m.
3s
Friday, February 5, 2027
9:00 a.m.
2s
Friday, February 26, 2027
9:00 a.m.
CONNECTING GENERATIONS
The JCC of Central NJ partners with Temple Emanu-El in Westfield for Bagged with Love which provides food and support to families in Union County. Volunteer monthly at either the JCC or Temple Emanu-El
CONNECTING GENERATIONS
If you’re not with the grandkids, join our adult community for author visits, film, performances and other experiences. Our Arts, Community and Culture programming provides a meaningful and inspiring way to learn, socialize and stay in touch and connect with community.
Connecting generations
Our strong group of grandparents (over 350!) strengthens the intergenerational connections that are so important to our JCC. L’Dor v’ Dor – from generation to generation. It is our job to ensure that our JCC is here to serve our community today and into a strong future. Grandparents, please consider giving your support! Commemorate someone special, become a patron of the arts or support a fund that is meaningful to you.
