programs
The Derech Eretz (The Path) Campaign
Building a Space for the Next Generation
A History of Impact
Over 7,500 after-schoolers attended classes and activities
Over 20,000 older adults engaged in our offerings
Over 5,000 students have graduated our Preschool / K
Over 15,000 teens have made lifelong connections
Over 10,000 campers have spent their summer with us
Over 500 children with special needs attended Summer Camp
A Legacy of Connection: Since 1971, the Kaiserman JCC has worked to advance and enrich life in Philadelphia. Our mission is to create fulfilling connections, enhance lives, and foster Jewish peoplehood through inspirational educational, cultural, and recreational programs. Our campus, which is located just west of Philadelphia, serves a diverse community through programs and events that impact families, teens, and older adults.
Context of Today
The October 8th Jew: A Profound Shift in Jewish Community
Post-COVID: A Renewed Craving for Community
A Jewish Communal “Surge”
We Are Prepared For This Moment
Through strategic planning and dedicated effort, we’ve positioned ourselves to become the town square for Jewish connection, community, and growth.
Early Successes:
Established a hub of Jewish and Israeli Culture
Expanded partnership with Sunrise Camp for children with cancer and their siblings
Acquired Golden Slipper Gems for Older Adults
Opened second preschool with first at capacity
A Story of Growth
Summer Camp
2017: 303 Campers
2025: 692 Campers
Early Education
Preschool Locations in:
– Wynnewood
– (NEW) King of Prussia
2017: 140 Students
2025: 221 Students
Teens
New home to:
– Diller Teen Fellows
– J-Ball: Our highschool student-founded basketball league
– Teen Board: Senior Shaliach, Niv Sadeh
Older Adults
Expanded programming to:
– Federation Housing
– Bucks County
2023: 524 Participants
2025: 947 Participants
Our financial picture mirrors this positive trajectory:
Total Revenue:
Challenges Persist
Enrollment capacity is maximized due to space constraints
Infrastructure is aging
Lack of custom built spaces for our programs of today
Opportunities and Growth
Sustainable Business Model
We are working toward a sustainable business model where program revenue covers operational costs.
Business Opportunity
The Jewish community in our region is searching for a centralized place to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
Continued Growth Potential
Our growth potential lies in expanding membership and retention by enhancing our programs and facilities to meet community needs.
Three Core Revenue Generating Business Pillars
Early Education
Summer Camp
Lifelong Fitness / Wellness / Aquatics
Phase One: The Derech Eretz (The Path) Campaign
Building a Space for the Next Generation
A Comprehensive Approach to Fitness and Wellness: With our newly renovated gymnasium and future upgrades to the fitness center and locker rooms, we are building a state-of-the-art, inclusive space where individuals of all ages can thrive both mentally and physically.
A Bold New Approach to Wellness
The center will serve over 600 people and include:
Health, Fitness and Wellness Programs: Delivered to individuals and groups with tailored sessions designed to meet the unique needs of a diverse population, including specialized programs for older adults, parents and school aged children.
Brain, Body, Balance equipment and programs: Our equipment and programming will be based on the concepts of functional training and movement quality. Often referred to as Neuro Functional Training, these programs involve coordinating the brain’s activity with the body’s activity, just like we do in real life.
Strategic Collaborations: Innovative partnerships will maximize facility use and enhance community offerings such as programs tailored for people with Parkinsons Disease or after school fitness programs.
Our state-of-the-art wellness center will drive membership, generate revenue, and enhance Jewish life at the JCC through an innovative active care model.
Active Care at the JCC
At the heart of this transformation is our Active Care model, a holistic approach that integrates health, fitness, and wellness to promote long-term well-being.
1. “Trusted Preventative Health Partner” status
2. Shifting the mentality from training to coaching/mentoring
3. The effective use of science/data
4. Programs vs. Membership
5. Personalization
Unique to our Model
By combining our Functional Fitness & Movement methodology with specialized equipment and a digital lifestyle medicine platform, we:
Expand accessibility to underserved groups, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic conditions.
Enhance membership value by offering personalized, holistic wellness beyond the physical facility.
Increase engagement through individualized care paths, digital courses, coaching, and data-driven insights.
Extend services beyond our walls, broadening participation and improving outcomes for both members and the organization.
All funds raised will be used towards capital projects in the spirit of this campaign.
Phase Two: Pickleball and Padel
Phase Three: Aquatics
Naming Opportunities:
Join us in building the future of the Kaiserman JCC. Our naming opportunities offer you the chance to leave a lasting impact on our community, helping to create spaces where growth, learning, and connection flourish. By adding your name to our story, you play a pivotal role in creating a vibrant, inclusive environment that will inspire and support generations to come.
Fitness Room ($1,000,000)
Fitness Studio ($500,000)
Men’s Locker Room ($250,000)
Women’s Locker Room ($250,000)
Aerobics Studio ($250,000)
Fitness Office ($75,000)
Individual Equipment ($15,000 each)
Join Us:
To help make our vision a reality and to learn more about this incredible campaign please fill our a pledge card below. Questions? Reach out to Michael Berton, Development Director.
Derech Eretz Pledge Card
At the Kaiserman JCC, we are walking the path toward a healthier, stronger future for our community. Your pledge to The Derech Eretz Campaign helps us create a state-of-the-art, inclusive space for fitness and wellness, where individuals of all ages can thrive, body and soul. Thank you for helping us build a community defined by wellness, connection, and Derech Eretz, the path of respect and kindness.
