Jewish Life

At the J, we know that Philanthropy isn't something you can fully learn from a worksheet it has to be practiced. So that's exactly what this program does.

Some holidays announce themselves with shofar blasts or dramatic retellings of plagues and parted seas. Shavuot is quieter, but don't let that fool you. This is the holiday that celebrates receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, and it's one of our favorites to bring to life here at the JCC because it's really about learning, community, and, yes, an impressive amount of cheesecake.

At the Merage JCC, we believe community is built by the stories we share and the values we pass down from generation to generation. Throughout the year, our programs in arts, culture, education, wellness, and leadership create spaces where women and girls can explore their identities, discover their voices, and grow as leaders.

Women’s HerStory Month offers a powerful opportunity to pause and recognize the remarkable contributions of Jewish women whose courage, creativity, and vision have helped shape American life.

Jewish tradition teaches that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God. This belief calls us to build communities rooted in dignity, respect, and belonging. At the Merage JCC, that principle is central to who we are.

The Merage JCC is proud to enter its second year partnering with BBYO, expanding leadership pathways, meaningful connections, and year-round experiences for Orange County’s Jewish teens—creating spaces of belonging, confidence, and community when relationships and connection matter more than ever.

At the Merage JCC, December 25 looks a little different, and that’s exactly the point.

While many enjoy a day off, our community chooses to make it a day on: a day of service, connection, and kindness. Each year, JCC Cares Day of Service transforms our campus into a hub of giving, where families, individuals, and volunteers of all ages come together to uplift others and live our values in action.

What does it mean to make a real difference? For local teens in grades 9–12, Young Philanthropists offers the chance to find out firsthand. This transformative program empowers students to explore what it means to give back, lead with purpose, and make meaningful change both locally and globally.

Our teen leaders are exploring Spain and Portugal, discovering culture, history, and Jewish heritage. Follow their daily blog for reflections and adventures.

Today JCCs are stepping up as modern-day town squares to combat the rising tide of Jew-hatred. While they might not be the first organizations that come to mind in this front-line fight, JCCs are uniquely positioned as welcoming hubs of Jewish life and engagement, reaching deep within the Jewish community and far beyond.

In the heart of the Israeli calendar lies a sequence of days where a nation pauses, remembers, mourns, and celebrates. These days, spanning from Yom HaShoah to Yom HaZikaron and culminating in Yom Ha’atzmaut, form a thread binding past to present and tragedy to triumph.