Welcome to the Teen Engagement Department at Katz JCC

Teens are the heartbeat of our community—bringing passion, creativity, and energy to everything they do. At the Katz JCC, we’re all about creating spaces where teens can connect, grow, and lead in ways that feel meaningful to them. Whether it’s hanging out with friends, stepping up as a leader, giving back through mitzvah projects, or just having a great time, our programs are built to meet teens where they are. From middle school through high school, every teen can find their place here—jump in, get involved, and make it your own.

Upcoming Events

  • JTeen856 Club Soda | Fridays | 3:00PM – 5:00PM | In the newly updated Classroom 201 Teen Lounge | Enjoy a fun pre-Shabbat hangout with snacks, music, games, and your own DIY club soda bar. Unplug, laugh, and start your weekend right.
  • Returning Soon! School’s Out! Teen Vacation Days | Ages 11-14 | Fall / Winter Sessions | Register for October 20 | Register for November 6 (Special Afternoon Field Trip to Game On! Medford) | Register for November 7 | Register for December 29 | Register for December 30 | Register for January 6
  • New! Middle School Pickup Basketball | For Ages 11-14 | Get in the game with fast-paced, referee-led pickup basketball just for middle schoolers—where every point counts and competition meets fun after school! | Thursdays, October 9 to October 30 | Register for Thursday, October 9-30 for the 3:45-4:45pm slot | Register for the Thursday, October 9-30 for the 5:00-6:00pm slot | Members are FREE | Guests: $40
  • Third Time, Last Time: Be Part of the Legacy! See it before it is gone. Anne Frank: The Exhibition ~ Field Trip to NYC | For ages 11-18 | Sunday, January 4, 9:30am-5:00pm | Register here | Sponsored by Amy and Barney Kaplan and the JCF.
  • Returning Soon! Challah and Hoops | Monday, January 19, 9:00am-3:30pm | A hands‑on day of basketball, challah baking, and mitzvah learning for ages 7–14, blending fun, service, and Jewish values to leave a lasting impact | Limited spots available per cohort | Register for ages 7-10 | Register for ages 11-14
  • Returning Soon! Chesed, Chanukah, and Hot Wheelz | Thursday, December 11, 6:00-8:30pm | Open to ages 9–99, this festive night of Chesed, Chanukah & Hot Wheelz on Thursday, December 11 features letter-writing for IDF soldiers, pizza, arcade games, sweet treats, skating, and joyful community connection just in time for the holidays | Register here
  • Returning Soon! Kids Real Estate & Financial Literacy Academy Series | For ages 13-18 | Thursdays, from October 30 to December 11, 6-7pm in the Teen Lounge |  This six-part financial literacy series equips teens with real-life money skills, from saving, spending, investing, and credit basics to decision-making and goal setting, leaving them with a toolkit for informed financial choices and future success | Limited to 20 spots | Register here
  • New! Teen Mario Kart World Tournament | For ages 11-18 | Limited to 20 spots | Tuesday, November 4, 3:30-5:30 in the Teen Lounge | Race in a high-energy Nintendo Switch 2 double-elimination tournament with prizes, snacks, and a Club Soda Bar | Register here
  • Back by Popular Demand! The American Red Cross Babysitter Training Program with Pediatric CPR / AED Training | For ages 11-15 | Only 20 spots available | Monday, December 29, 9am-5pm | Gain essential child care, first aid, and emergency skills in the American Red Cross Babysitters Training Course, earning a 10-year Babysitters certificate and a 2-year CPR/AED certification | Register here
  • New! Teen Pickleball Pop-Up | Ages: 11–14 & 15–18 | Session 1: Mondays & Fridays, Oct 27 – Nov 7 | Session 2: Mondays & Fridays, Nov 10 – Nov 21 | Get in the game at our Teen Pickleball Pop-Up! Join us on the new outdoor pickleball courts for an afternoon of energy, skills, and fun. Learn new techniques, play friendly matches, and connect with other teens who love to play. Bring a water bottle, athletic shoes, and your own paddle—or borrow one from us! Please note: This outdoor program runs weather permitting. There are no refunds or make-up days, but participants may work with the instructor to transfer one session if available. | Register Now: Session 1: Ages 11–14 | Session 1: Ages 15–18 | Session 2: Ages 11–14 | Session 2: Ages 15–18 | Members: $100 | Non-Members: $120 (includes four sessions)

Leadership & Resources

  • Seed856 | A leadership development program for 7th and 8th graders | Learn More
  • Root856 | A leadership program designed for 9th and 10th graders | Learn More
  • New! Mitzvah Makers | Empowering bar and bat mitzvah-aged teens to make a difference | Fill Out a Form Today
  • New! Teen Mental Health | Explore resources and content created by our JCC Teen Mental Health Committee to support and empower you | Click Here to Visit the Teen Mental Health Page
  • Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) | Find meaningful volunteer opportunities, mental health resources, and ways to give back through mitzvah projects and community service | Learn More
  • Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) | Engage in social justice initiatives, advocacy programs, and meaningful community service opportunities that make a real impact | Learn More
  • New! Teen Antisemitism Awareness & Engagement Survey | Your voice can drive real change—help us understand and combat antisemitism by sharing your experiences in this quick, impactful survey | Fill Out the Survey Today
  • BBYO | Join BBYO South Jersey Region for epic events, lifelong friendships, and leadership opportunities that empower Jewish teens to make a difference | Learn More

Seasonal & Year-Round

  • JTeen856 Club Soda | Fridays | 3:00PM – 5:00PM | In the newly updated Classroom 201 Teen Lounge | Enjoy a fun pre-Shabbat hangout with snacks, music, games, and your own DIY club soda bar. Unplug, laugh, and start your weekend right.
  • Martin Tepper Memorial High School Basketball League | Ages 13-18 | Wednesdays | October 15 – December 17 | 6:00PM – 10:00PM | Register Here | Learn More
  • JSports Academy Specialty Class: Ultimate Gaga | Ages 12 and under | Mondays | October 20 – November 24 | 4:30PM – 5:00PM | Register Here

🕒 Teen Lounge Hours

The Katz JCC Teen Lounge is open for all members in grades 6–12 during the school year. Come hang out, do homework, play games, or just unwind in a safe and welcoming space!

Teen Lounge Hours (Monday–Friday):

Monday – Thursday: 3:00PM – 5:30PM

Unwind after school with friends, play Nintendo Switch 2, enjoy board games, or take part in pop-up activities.

Note: Lounge closes at 5:30pm on Mondays to prepare for Seed856 and Root856, our Jewish Youth Leadership programs that run from 6:00–8:00 PM.

Friday: 3:00PM – 5:00PM

Come by for JTeen856 Club Soda and wind down the week before Shabbat.

Please note:

🛑 The Teen Lounge is closed on weekends, during most Jewish holidays, and when the building is closed.

📩 Interested in using the Teen Lounge for a private event on a Sunday? Contact Carl Abramowitz at cabramowitz@jfedsnj.org to inquire about availability and guidelines.

Teen Engagement Program – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can participate in Teen Engagement programs?

Our programs are designed for Jewish and interfaith teens in grades 5–12. Whether you’re brand new to the JCC or a camp veteran, there’s a place for you here.

2. Do I need to be a JCC member to join?

Some of our programs are open to both members and non-members, though JCC members may receive discounted pricing and early registration access. Certain offerings, like drop-in Teen Lounge access, may be exclusive to members.

3. What kind of programs do you offer?

From Jewish leadership cohorts like Seed856 and Root856, to social events, field trips, volunteer opportunities, vacation day programs, and even babysitter training—we offer something for every interest.

4. Is there a way to get involved in leadership?

Absolutely! Our JTeen856 Leadership Pathways (Seed856, for 7th and 8th graders, and Root856, for 9th and 10th graders) help teens build confidence, develop skills, and make a difference in the community. Applications are open from summer to the start of the school year, with the programs running from October until Mid-May.

5. Are there opportunities for community service hours?

Yes! We partner with JFCS, JCRC, and other local organizations to offer mitzvah projects, donation drives, and volunteer events that qualify for service hours.

6. What is the Teen Lounge?

The Teen Lounge is your space to unwind, meet friends, and participate in curated drop-in activities. It’s available after school and during select hours—check the schedule for details.

7. How do I find out what events are coming up?

Check out our section entitled Upcoming Events, follow the Katz JCC on social media, and join our mailing list for event updates, registration links, and special opportunities.

8. Can my child attend programs if they’re new and don’t know anyone yet?

Yes! Our events are intentionally welcoming and inclusive. We work hard to help every teen feel seen, safe, and connected—whether they come with friends or on their own.

9. Is there financial assistance available?

Yes. The JCC believes every teen should have access to meaningful experiences. Contact our office to learn more about financial assistance or scholarship opportunities.

10. How can I get in touch with someone for more information?

We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to Carl Abramowitz, Director of Teen Engagement, at cabramowitz@jfedsnj.org or call 856-424-4444 x1191.

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