Who We Are
The Valley of the Sun JCC (“The J”) builds connections to the Jewish community in a setting that enriches physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Part of the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus since it opened in 2002, The J and the Campus remain dedicated to the well-being of people of all ages and faiths, and strive to maintain the highest standards for facilities and programming through classes, services, and events that meet the needs of the greater community. Valley of the Sun JCC is a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization – Tax ID # 86-0622258.
Ina Levine
Bill Levine and his wife Ina moved to the Valley from Brooklyn in 1960. They and their three children were active members of the local Jewish Community Center, then located in Central Phoenix. As their family and community roots grew, so too did the success of Bill’s ventures.
When Ina passed away in 1999, Bill wanted to provide a fitting memorial to her devotion to Jewish life and causes. At the time, the existing JCC was looking for a new home, so Bill purchased 30 acres at Sweetwater and Scottsdale Roads. He donated the land to build and with his generosity and that of many other community donors, the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus was opened in 2002 and became the hub of the Jewish and greater community. Today, the campus is home to the Valley of the Sun JCC, Pardes Jewish Day School, Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix and several other Jewish agencies. While the campus is founded on Jewish values such as being kind and repairing the world, it is an inclusive center where all are welcome regardless of faith, background or ability.
Martin Pear Dedication
Martin Pear (Marty) was a JCC executive and devoted his life to the Jewish Community Professional world serving in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Florida and Arizona. Marty entered and served his communities with dedication, integrity, compassion and humility. We honor him and the work to which he devoted so much of his life by striving to emulate his example, by caring for one another, and by remaining steadfast in our commitment to something more – something greater in all of us.
Also known for his generosity, loyalty, love, resiliency and positive attitude, Martin and his wife Beverly inspired their family to live a life with the values of Chesed (loving-kindness) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world). They raised four children and developed deep and meaningful relationships with all 14 of their grandchildren who continue to carry on Marty’s legacy.
The building that houses The J, along with many other Jewish agencies, is proudly dedicated to Marty and countless other Jewish Communal professionals that give their heart and soul each day to sustain, strengthen, and create vibrant and warm environments that are instrumental in generating a transformative impact throughout communities worldwide.
The Values We Stand By
Culture
Our Jewish heritage is our first brand pillar and is core to our identity. While we are rooted in Jewish tradtions and values, our community is all inclusive welcoming everyone – those bound by any faith as well as those who are not affiliated with a particular faith.
Compassion/Heart
Inclusive, altruistic, welcoming, and warm. This pillar is part Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and part home-away-from-home, which is a signature and differentiator of the J experience. This familial feeling allows everyone who engages with our brand to immediately become a part of our community.
Quality
Our members expect brands to meet ever-rising standards, and provide value through quality experiences that foster community connection. With experiences that span the entire life cycle, we continue to strive to provide value through a dedicated focus on quality and experience.
Convenience
Convenience is our final pillar as members expect businesses to work around their schedule and their needs. With lifecyle experiences that meet the community where they are at, members are able to create a lifestyle that feels like it is custom-made for the individual and/or family unit.
The People Behind The J
Meet the friendly faces who are here to help you make the most of your J experience!
Support The J
Your gift ensures a strong, vital and enriching future for The J and all those who are touched by our programs and services.