MJCCA’s Capital Campaign Surpasses $36M

Officials with the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta at its annual meeting on March 26 announced that the center’s capital campaign netted $36.4 million in donor contributions and, in doing so, eclipsed the campaign goal by nearly a half-million dollars.

This campaign constitutes a significant phase in the MJCCA’s history, enabling the organization to serve a broader audience and deliver an even greater impact for the next generation of Jewish Atlanta and beyond, according to a news release.

“This campaign represents a pivotal moment for the Marcus JCC, reflecting the tremendous support from donors and community philanthropists,” said MJCCA CEO Jared Powers.

Construction of the new Zalik Outdoor Aquatic Center, featuring three pools — the Dinerman Medeiros Pool, the Samsky Pool, the Alterman Pool — and the Barbara and Ed Mendel Splash Park // Photo Credit: MJCCA

Powers added that while he was thrilled with the outpouring of financial support from the community for the MJCCA, he acknowledged that the facility still has “many unmet needs.”

“There remain many opportunities for individuals, companies, or foundations to make gifts that will have a tremendous impact. As more people flock to our upgraded facilities, we will continue to need funds to grow our innovative and inspirational offerings,” he said.

Lee N. Katz, former chair, MJCCA Board of Directors, said the fundraising campaign speaks to the MJCCA’s legacy as a center of Jewish life in Atlanta and is a testament to its expansive role in the community going forward.

Construction of expanded campus parking, adding more than 100 new parking spaces conveniently located by the Zalik Outdoor Aquatic Center, and increasing parking capacity for the Zaban-Blank building // Photo Credit: MJCCA

“This accomplishment ensures that the MJCCA will continue to be at the center of Jewish life in Atlanta, offering innovative and transformative programs that will benefit the community for decades to come,” Katz said.

Bernie Marcus, founder of The Marcus Foundation and co-founder of The Home Depot, also shared his thoughts about the facility’s historic fundraising haul.

“The Marcus JCC of Atlanta is essential for building community and enhancing Jewish life,” Marcus said. “Opportunities to gather at places like the JCC are important now, and especially for our children and young adults. We are proud of our longstanding partnership and look forward to these improvements strengthening Jewish engagement even further for decades to come and hope it inspires future generations to invest in our community.”

The London Feldman Field, converted to a high-end turf field for year-round use // Photo Credit: MJCCA

MJCCA officials said the funds raised will go toward transforming the Zaban Park campus and Camp Barney Medintz, the JCC’s sleepaway summer camp in Cleveland, Ga. “These strategic investments in MJCCA facilities will not only provide necessary upgrades but also expand the breadth and depth of programs offered, ensuring a lasting impact on participants and the broader metro Atlanta community,” according to a news release.

The Zaban Park campus will receive a series of upgrades and physical improvements, including:
Zalik Outdoor Aquatic Center: will feature three pools – Dinerman Medeiros Pool, Samsky Pool, and Alterman Pool – and the Barbara and Ed Mendel Splash Park; pools will feature easy entry access, multiple shallow areas, in-pool sundeck, water slides, sections with shaded decks, and picnic areas (opening summer 2024)
Eva G. Lipman Pickleball Complex: featuring eight covered pickleball courts with rain-protection siding allowing for all-weather play, plus four additional uncovered courts; will also house Cadranel’s Corner, a café with extensive social and viewing areas and TV’s; complex will also include the new Zaban Family Sports Pavilion, a large covered multi-sport court with high-efficiency fans (opening summer 2024)
London Feldman Field: converted to high-end turf with a new parking lot and improved security resources (opening summer 2024)
Camp Barney Medintz: will receive new cabins, bathrooms, a dining hall extension, and an adult housing structure.