Calling it a new chapter for the organization, leaders of the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey recently held a grand opening and ribbon cutting of the refurbished and renovated Jonathan Sinay Building in Cherry Hill.
The building, at 1721 Springdale Road, has been owned and operated by JFSNJ since 2014. Now, however, it will serve as the new home to two of the system’s cornerstone programs: The Aleph Adult Day Center, a department of JFSNJ, and the Jewish Family and Children’s Service (JFCS) To Our Positive Success (TOPS) Day Habilitation Program.
CEO Jennifer Dubrow Weiss said the building continues to strengthen the presence and purpose of the larger property it is housed on, Weinberg Commons, the affordable housing community for older adults (age 55+) and adults with special needs in Cherry Hill that JFSNJ owns and manages.
This property was developed as another way to help older adults and adults with disabilities live as independently as possible with peers while providing the necessary supports to do so.
“It is with immense pride and great joy to celebrate the grand opening of the Jonathan Sinay Building at 1721 Springdale Road,” Weiss said. “It is exhilarating to begin new chapter in the story of the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey and our family of agencies, and it is a testament to the progress, of possibility, and of a future filled with potential for older adults and individuals with disabilities in our community.”
Weiss said the building captures the spirit of the organization.
“When I think about what makes Jewish South Jersey such a special place, I always come back to the notion of inclusivity and how our community is driven by the need to make it a place where everyone feels welcome,” she said.
“The Jonathan Sinay Building and the programs it houses are a testament to this and demonstrate how we can provide opportunities that bring people together and foster change. I am so proud of the work being done to ensure the older adult and special needs populations will enjoy these facilities for years to come.”
The Aleph Adult Day Center provides a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for older adults to spend their day, while also offering much-needed respite for their families and/or caregivers. The program focuses on enhancing socialization, cognitive engagement, and creative expression with activities that improve mental and physical health, mental stimulation, and the opportunity to build special relationships.
Robyn Kaplan, JFSNJ executive director of Older Adults said creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities and older adults to interact and engage in activities together is truly special.
“This inclusive environment develops mutual support and understanding, allowing participants to share their unique perspectives and strengths,” she said. “Through shared experiences, they build meaningful relationships, enhance each other’s emotional well-being, and cultivate a sense of belonging and community.”
TOPS is designed for individuals who have graduated high school and seek enrichment activities to supplement their week. It offers dynamic and engaging programs for young adults. Activities offered include physical fitness, music and dance, creative arts, and life skills support with an emphasis on social skills and relationships. TOPS is offered through the JFCS Disability Services Department, which works to help clients achieve their highest potential while pursuing independent, fulfilled lives as members of the community.
“Our community’s ability to embrace different perspectives and celebrate diverse abilities is part of what makes this community so special,” Raechel Hammer, JFCS executive director, said. “We are committed to ensuring that everyone has the ability to thrive and pursue meaningful lives. The Jonathan Sinay Building will provide a state-of-the-art space where our clients, staff, and volunteers can interact with one another as they continue their journeys of learning and growth.”
