Leading with conviction: Strengthening our community through education and connection

For decades, JCCs have been spaces where Jewish life flourishes alongside a broader community of diverse backgrounds. Here in San Mateo County, PJCC serves thousands of individuals, half of whom are not Jewish. We provide a place to learn, grow and build meaningful relationships. As our world changes, our commitment to fostering belonging and meaningful connections remains essential.

Beyond awareness: The leadership mandate

People seek places where they feel safe, understood and connected to something greater than themselves. We at PJCC are committed to creating those spaces — where people from all walks of life can learn, engage in meaningful conversations and build bridges that strengthen our shared future.

At the seminar, we explored how leadership is not just about responding to challenges but about proactively fostering an environment where people feel empowered to understand complex issues and navigate them with confidence. Strong leadership means creating opportunities for lifelong learning, encouraging open dialogue and providing the resources needed to help our community thrive.

At PJCC, this means expanding our educational programs, strengthening partnerships with diverse community groups and continuing to make our spaces places of learning, belonging and growth. By embracing this mission, we can ensure that everyone — regardless of background — feels welcome and inspired to be part of something meaningful.

Strength in connection: The power of two-way allyship

One of the most powerful takeaways from this seminar was the reminder that JCCs serve as a bridge between Jewish communities and the wider society. More than one-third of the 1.5 million people who walk through the doors of JCCs across North America each week come from different faiths and cultural traditions. This diversity is a strength, a testament to the unifying power of shared experiences.

Fostering relationships built on trust and mutual respect is at the heart of what we do. Just as we welcome allies to engage in learning about Jewish life and culture, we are equally committed to supporting and uplifting others. True allyship is a two-way partnership — one that encourages collaboration, celebrates our common values and strengthens our collective ability to build a more inclusive and understanding world.

At PJCC, we are committed to this vision; providing educational programs that promote understanding, and ensuring that our spaces remain open, welcoming and vibrant for all who seek connection.

Moving forward: A commitment to action

Returning from the seminar, I am energized by the possibilities ahead. PJCC will continue to expand initiatives that empower our members with knowledge, strengthen relationships across communities and provide meaningful ways for people to engage in dialogue and action. We will focus on fostering curiosity, celebrating diverse perspectives and reinforcing the values that make our community strong.

Most importantly, we will lead with conviction. We will stand for learning, for dialogue, for connection, and for building a world where every person feels seen, valued and inspired to contribute. Together, we can continue to create spaces that enrich lives and strengthen our collective future.

Leadership is not about waiting for the right moment; it is about recognizing that the moment is now.

Jordan Shenker is the CEO of the Peninsula Jewish Community Center in Foster City, with more than 30 years of leadership in the JCC movement. A dedicated community builder and speaker, he is passionate about diversity, professional development and strengthening Jewish life.