Mission & History

Mission

The JCC of Northern Virginia is dedicated to offering quality programs, activities and services which emphasize Jewish culture, identity and values to people of all ages and backgrounds.  The Center is a nonprofit social service organization committed to providing social, educational, fitness & wellness programs guided by Jewish values.  We operate in a fiscally sound manner to ensure long-term viability.

History

It all began in the fall of 1969 when 14 Northern Virginians met to discuss the idea of a Jewish Community Center in Northern Virginia.  Originally served by outreach programs based at the JCC of Greater Washington in Rockville, the growth of the Jewish population in Northern Virginia indicated a need for a home base on the other side of the Nation’s Capital. By the late 1970’s, interest increased and residents reached consensus. The time had come for a Northern Virginia Jewish Community Center. 

On May 9, 1980, the JCCNV officially began operation, receiving a certificate of incorporation from the State Corporation Commission. Later that fall, the Center’s Board of Directors moved to purchase a temporary building on Little River Turnpike, now affectionately known as “The White House,” to serve as an interim facility until funds could be raised for a permanent structure. For 10 years, the temporary building housed the Jewish Social Service Agency, the Council for the Aging, and Senior Adult Services.  

In 1985, the Jewish Community Foundation identified the construction of a permanent JCCNV building as a major component of the “Capital Campaign of the 80s.”  With the support of the Greater Washington Jewish community, construction began on the building we still call home in the spring of 1989.  In December 1990, the Henry S. Reich building celebrated its grand opening, a community wide event including a dedication by Governor Douglas Wilder. 

The JCCNV quickly became a vibrant hub of activity, providing a myriad of programs and services for people of all ages and backgrounds. Over the last twenty years, opportunities afforded by the Center have grown significantly due to the generous support of the community. Today, we boast award-winning departments including Early Childhood, Adult and Senior Services, Summer Camp, Sports and Fitness, Aquatics, Special Needs, Cultural Arts, Israeli Outreach, Leadership Development, and more. Today, the Henry S. Reich building is bursting at the seams with energy and vitality as we strive to meet the evolving needs of a flourishing community.

In 1969, a Northern Virginia JCC was just an idea. In 2011, it is a reality, a true center of Judaism, education, wellness, and good spirit.