JCC Indianapolis

01/21/2026

26 for ’26 💪

Think you’ve done every ab move out there? Think again.
JCC Personal Trainer Laurel Hess is showing fresh ways to fire up your core.

Today’s challenge: 2 sets of 26 crunches.
Let’s get it done.

01/20/2026

Artist Erin Patton-McFarren was in the gallery yesterday putting the finishing touches on Um Passo à Frente (Jan. 22 - Mar. 8 )

The work is officially up, the space is transformed, and we’re ready to welcome you.

🗓 Opening Reception: THIS THURSDAY
🕠 5:30–7:00 PM
📍 JCC Art Gallery

Join us for an evening of art, conversation, and a first look at this beautiful new exhibition. Free and open to the community.

RSVP here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jcc-gallery-opening-erin-patton-mcfarrens-um-passo-a-frente-tickets-1978834700859?aff=oddtdtcreator

01/20/2026

Can’t make it to Armond’s Workout of the Week as part of 26 for ’26?

No worries. Try Armond's Push-Up Challenge on your own and jump in anytime.
Check it out 💪

01/19/2026

A recent UK survey found that 37% of young adults use fitness as a way to socialize - and 42% have made friends at the gym.

We’re seeing it firsthand here in the US.
Since January 1, more than half of new JCC members are under 30.

Whether it’s lifting together, swimming laps, shooting hoops, or just catching up between sets, the JCC has become a place to move and belong.

Health is social now.
And it’s happening here.

https://www.thetimes.com/uk/society/article/gyms-beat-pubs-for-a-gen-z-night-out-gbzcnx28v?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqf0LuEtQISRotYNkP275z4D_R3STui8IC3dyKAKFkj7bznbZu6IIxQ-cT1nWJU%3D&gaa_ts=696cf4b0&gaa_sig=m6MHVQ-jDe5xtO4ChYhPRp0YO35mCsvxJaJ7sWB48RY-ooC6UvA7FG4nW8scrCUJQTntvrxljhX_nntFkn477Q%3D%3D

A survey reveals that young people increasingly see getting exercise as a way to socialise and are cutting back on alcohol

01/19/2026

Experience the powerful documentary October 8, followed by a panel discussion exploring the surge of antisemitism in the U.S. and global disinformation campaigns. Light refreshments will be served.
📽 Unmasking Antisemitism: A Special Screening of “October 8”
🗓 Wednesday, Jan. 21 | 5:30 PM
📍 Laikin Auditorium, Indianapolis

Register now using this link: www.bit.ly/oct8screening

01/18/2026

Winter doesn’t have to mean pressing pause on your goals.

The 2026 Indoor Winter Blast Triathlon at the JCC of Indianapolis is a fun, motivating way to stay active during the colder months - all indoors and open to a wide range of fitness levels.

You’ll swim, bike, and run using our pools and fitness center, completing each leg at your own pace. Train for one event or take on all three. Whether this is your first triathlon or just a new winter challenge, this is about movement, community, and showing up for yourself.

It’s structured, supportive, and surprisingly social - exactly the kind of goal that keeps you coming back.

Winter challenge accepted.
Join us this February.

01/18/2026

We’re proud to see the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis and our Laikin Auditorium highlighted in a recent NUVO article by Rita Kohn!

The piece spotlights the Ronen Chamber Ensemble concert Brilliant Winds, happening Sunday, January 25 at 4 PM right here at the JCC. An intimate afternoon of chamber music featuring Bach, Doppler, and Poulenc, plus guest flutist Natalie Debikey Scanio.

I’m excited about our upcoming Ronen Chamber Ensemble program, Brilliant Winds, with guest flutist and Indianapolis native Natalie Debiky Scanio, who currently plays with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

01/16/2026

Shabbat Shalom from Sam - From Jackson to Indianapolis, We Are One Community

This week, I read about the arson at Beth Israel in Jackson, Mississippi -- a synagogue set on fire, Torah scrolls destroyed -- and I felt it in my body. Not because Jackson is close to Indianapolis, but because I grew up in Birmingham, Alabama.

01/16/2026

01/16/2026

Did you know challah is available for purchase every Friday in honor of Shabbat at the JCC? Challah costs $6, and you can pay with , card, cash or charge to your JCC account. Rabbi Goldstein, our staff Mashgiach (Kosher Supervisor), ensures all food is prepared and served according to Jewish dietary laws (kashrut).

Challah is a special braided bread in Jewish cuisine, traditionally eaten at Jewish holidays and religious occasions including Shabbat. Braided loaves, which may have three, four, or six strands, are the most common. In some traditions, the braided form can be seen as representing unity, community, and connection.

Before eating bread, including challah at the beginning of a Shabbat meal, a special blessing called “Hamotzi” is recited to thank G-d “who brings forth bread from the earth.”

Abby Katz
Senior Director of Jewish Life & Engagement

01/15/2026

Our Pre-K 2 class is celebrating 100 days of school in the most adorable way possible - by dressing as 100-year-olds! 👵🧓🎉 Here’s to 100 days of learning, laughter, and growth (and a few extra wrinkles for the day)!

01/15/2026

Seamus Bingham is breaking down a variety of plank variations as part of our 26 for ’26 Workout Challenge. From classic holds to creative twists, these moves help build strength, stability, and endurance.

Pick your plank, hit play, and count it toward your 26.