FAQ
What is JCP?
JCP is a Jewish Community Organization in Lower Manhattan that is serving the Jewish educational, social, and cultural needs of downtown individuals and families. JCP offers a preschool, after school classes for elementary aged children, adult education, and Shabbat and Holiday celebrations. JCP is an inclusive, pluralistic, and organic Jewish community serving a diverse spectrum of Jewish backgrounds, ages, and affiliations.
When did JCP begin?
Following 9/11, young Jewish families that were seeking community met for an informal Purim Party and some local leaders began to dream about a neighborhood Jewish community that would bring them together. Rotating Shabbat dinners began the next year. To anchor the community, the vision of a preschool took root in 2004. In 2007, JCP moved into a 10,000 square foot facility in Tribeca.
Who does JCP serve?
Over 1500 individuals and families living in Tribeca, Battery Park City, SoHo, the West Village, and the Financial District. In fall of 2010, our preschool will have 142 students and 50 preschool students will attend afterschool enrichment classes, over 200 elementary age children will study in our Hebrew School project afterschool K-6 programs, 85 children will be enrolled in my grown up and me classes, and between 400-500 families attend JCP holiday festivals.
How do I become a member?
JCP is a Project and we are independent. JCP is independent and is not affiliated with a larger religious denomination or cultural movement. We are part of the new Jewish landscape that is attempting to forge a new and unique place in the Jewish Community. As such, we are not a dues paying organization as we believe this creates barriers to entry. If you’re on our mailing list, you are a member.
What is the JCP Leadership structure?
The organization has developed as a partnership between staff and community members. The 25 person board sets the mission for JCP and supports the staff and volunteer base to execute the mission. There are 13 members of JCP’s full time staff, 21 preschool teachers, 4 learning specialists, and 15 Hebrew school project teachers.
Who leads JCP?
Lori Fineman is the President of the Board, Victoria Feder is the Chair and Founder, and Sharon Shorofsky Mack is Director of the Early Childhood Center and the Associate Director of JCP.
Who supports JCP?
UJA Federation of New York, Kaspher Family Foundation, Rita and Stanley Kaplan Foundation, Samuel Bronfman Foundation, Russell Berrie Foundation, Keren Keshet, Steinhardt/Jewish Life Foundation, and over 600 local individuals and families. JCP is not a membership organization in terms of a dues structure like most other Jewish institutions. Over 90% of our financial support comes directly from the JCP community. JCP relies on your financial help, thank you
What is the JCP budget?
In 2003, the budget was less than $40,000. In 2010, our budget was 3.2 Million and in the FY 2012 our projected budget is 4.4 Million.