Submitted by Mayerson JCC
The recent completion of a major building renovation at the Mayerson JCC has ushered in a wave of excitement and new engagement. From an expanded Early Childhood School (ECS) to new and upgraded fitness and childcare spaces, the renovation has brought opportunities for growth, community connection and educational development.
The renovation, which was the first significant one since the building opened in 2008, has greatly enhanced the Pilates program. Erin Harrington, a Level 4 Elite Pilates Instructor and Personal Trainer, noted, “The updated studios blend luxury and accessibility, allowing for a more personalized client experience.” The new spaces enabled growth in offerings, attracting new clients, including more men. “Pop-up Pilates classes have brought excitement to the community,” Harrington said. The semi-private Pilates Boutique Studio allows for intimate, specialized classes like Restorative Stretch and Chair and Tower Pilates, while the expanded Pilates Studio and Pilates Personal Training Studio open up more spaces for at-capacity classes and new clients.
Cathy Bowers, a long-time Pilates participant, shared, “When this space opened, it felt like moving into a new home. Everything was clearly planned to be comfortable and convenient.” She continued to share what makes Pilates at the J special. “We have amazing teachers, like Erin and Stacey, each with their own style, but all extremely encouraging and highly qualified. They set the tone for getting an effective, challenging workout, while having fun. I have met many people in Pilates class that I now consider friends.”
The fitness program’s increased capacity has benefited both members and instructors. “It’s exciting to teach in a space that was created with our needs in mind,” said Vicki Tincher, Group Ex Coordinator and Level 3 Master Trainer. “The layout is more cohesive, and the atmosphere is vibrant, which motivates everyone. The buzz in the fitness community is palpable, as the revamped facilities continue to draw in new members.”
The fitness program is also expanding to include a variety of new group exercise formats, including LesMills BODYPUMP, a full-body barbell workout that helps participants burn calories, shape and tone their entire body, increase core strength and improve bone health. Through these new courses, the team is actively working on a larger outreach campaign to attract even more people. “We’re looking forward to offering more classes at convenient times to engage a broader range of people — whether they’re looking for a lunchtime or an after-work exercise class,” Tincher added.
The space is already making a difference in fostering deeper connections between members.
Tincher is excited to offer a women’s-only class in the new Group Exercise Studio, which appeals to participants seeking modesty and privacy in their fitness routines. “The renovation has allowed us to offer specialized classes, catering to different communities,” she said. The 60 & Better Center has also benefited from new equipment, like specialized bars for exercises, enhancing safety and support for older adults.
On the other side of the building, the expansion of the Early Childhood School (ECS) has been a game-changer for families in the community. The additional classrooms have allowed ECS to accommodate 50 more children, helping to alleviate some of the pressure on our extensive waitlist. The addition of the brand-new infant wing has allowed the program to hire six additional educators and create an Infant Coordinator position. This helped lower class ratios, providing more individualized attention to the students. Rena Hannon, Director of Early Childhood School and After Crew, remarked on the positive impact the new classrooms have had on the learning experience: “The new classrooms are bright, spacious, and designed to enhance children’s learning, allowing us to cater to each child’s unique needs, whether it’s a small group activity for social-emotional development or fine motor skill exercises.”
The feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the updated facilities. “The classrooms feel more welcoming and secure. It’s clear that the building was designed with children in mind,” said Lainey Richler, a parent whose children were recently enrolled in the school. ECS has also become a hub for family connection, with opportunities for parents to get involved. As Richler shared, “There’s a real sense of community here. It’s more than just a school — it feels like a family. The JCC has created a warm, nurturing environment where my children can grow, and I know they’re loved.”
As the JCC continues to evolve, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “The renovations have been a breath of fresh air,” said Holly Wolfson, Chief Programming Officer. “It’s been incredible to see how much more connected everyone feels. People are interacting more, and that sense of community is exactly what we’re striving for. It’s a space that nurtures our programs and people, and it’s clear that the community feels invested in these changes.”
Marc Fisher, CEO, added: “This expansion has allowed us to think differently about how we use our space. It’s been exciting to see the community come together, and we’re looking forward to seeing how these new spaces will continue to serve our members in the years to come. The expansion is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter for the entire community.”
