Mission & History

Our mission is to build a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive community that embraces our Jewish values, culture, identity and connections to Israel, engages the local community, and enhances the body, mind and spirit of our members.

Who We Are

The JCC is a thriving non-profit community center that welcomes the diverse populations of Schenectady, Albany and Saratoga Counties. Since 1921 the JCC’s role has changed and expanded to reflect the times. Our staff is committed to providing members and guests with high-quality programs and customer service. Included in the membership, is the use of the fitness center, over 75 group and water fitness classes each week, lap and family swims, open gym use, adult swim lessons, family art and gym activities, a relaxation center complete with a whirlpool, sauna, and steam room, and discounts on fitness, social, and enrichment classes and programs.

The JCC provides programming for:

• Wellness & Fitness for all ages
• Early Childhood Education & After School
• Youth/Teen Camps
• Culture for all ages
• Jewish Culture and Holiday Programs
• Contemporary Adult Programming

The JCC History

Originally founded in 1921 as a merger of the Young Men’s and Young Women’s Hebrew Association, the newly formed “Jewish Community Center” was located on the corner of Germania Avenue and Albany Street in downtown Schenectady. In 1965, the JCC moved to its current location on Balltown Road in Niskayuna. In 1987, the William and Estelle Golub Family Park was opened; which included an Olympic-size outdoor pool, playground, basketball court, amphitheater, snack bar, locker and shower rooms and tennis courts.