The Soloway JCC (SJCC) will hold its “Open House Week” at the beginning of December and will offer numerous classes, programs, and activities for all ages. Designed to help people get the most of the SJCC before deciding to become a member, this is a great opportunity to get a taste of all the centre has to offer.

People who are already members are also encouraged to bring a friend so that they can check out the facilities.

“It gives non-members and the community at large an opportunity to come in, experience what we have to offer, and hopefully take us up on a seven-day free trial,” said Patrice Berdowski, the SJCC’s Membership Director.

Guests will be able to swim in the saltwater pool, try pickleball, play basketball, or simply enjoy the steam room and sauna, an appealing invitation as the weather in Ottawa gets colder.

Open House Week has long been a beloved tradition at the SJCC, taking a brief pause only during the pandemic. Since resuming, it has proven highly successful in welcoming new members who, in many cases, decide to join immediately after experiencing the warm, community-focused atmosphere. 

“People often come in and say, ‘I don’t need the [seven-day trial], I’m signing up now.’ They feel that sense of community right away,” said Berdowski. “Now more than ever, people need a soft space to land.”

With over 3,500 members and more than 26 years in the community, the SJCC continues to thrive in a competitive fitness landscape. 

Beyond physical wellness, an SJCC membership means many opportunities for deeper enrichment and engagement in Jewish life and social groups. These include the Greenberg Families Library, adult education programs, ping pong afternoons, open games spaces, the Ganon Preschool, and family-friendly activities throughout the week.

There are also many festivals held throughout the year, including the recent Jewish Book Festival, as well as the Chanukah Gift Fair, which is taking place later this month on November 30. 

Being a hearth for Ottawa’s Jewish community, the SJCC offers many programs and services aimed at providing a safe space to live Jewishly for all stages of life. HaKibbutz, a program that equips Hebrew-speaking children with leadership skills and builds community, brings together Israeli Canadian families at a time when they need the support of one another most. 

BBYO will also soon be offered through the SJCC. More information about this program and how to get involved will be available in the coming weeks.

The SJCC also partners often with the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, offering special programs such as PJ Library and Ganon’s Kabbalat Shabbat for children and their families. 

For people wanting to connect more with Israel, there are programs offered by the Vered Israel Cultural and Educational Program, such as Hebrew-language classes, film screenings, and more.

“Whether someone wants to join a mahjong group, take a dance class, or simply enjoy the campus’s peaceful setting away from busy streets, the SJCC strives to be a welcoming home for all,” said Berdowski.

Open House Week culminates on Sunday, December 8 with Member Appreciation Day, including sample classes such as yoga and Zumba. 

To learn more about the Soloway JCC’s Open House Week and its other programs, click here.