New Orleans JCC
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Research proves the lifelong importance of exercising body and mind. For adults 60+, the JCC offers resources to keep you engaged. Drawing on decades of experience, the JCC offers activities that address the social, cultural and physical needs of these members. Hope to see you at the J!
All programming takes place at the Uptown JCC unless otherwise stated.
For information, email Josh Brooks or call 504-897-0143.
Download a copy of our monthly newsletter for January 2026.
Learn To Play Bridge Online
Want to join a game online? Click this link for more info: ClubKing Inc.
Questions? Email info@ClubKingInc.com.
Intermediate through advanced players can join us for classes and online play here.
Book Club
Typically meeting the third Tuesday of each month from 1:30 - 3:00 PM at the Uptown JCC, the JCC Book Club offers engaging and insightful discussions in a laid back environment. Free and open to the community—all are welcome. Light snacks are served at all meetings.
February Book Club: On Being Jewish Now by Zibby Owens
Tuesday, February 24 | 1:30 - 3:00 pm | Uptown JCC
Reviewer: Rabbi Katie Bauman, Touro Synagogue
“On Being Jewish Now” is a powerful anthology edited by Zibby Owens, featuring 75 essays from Jewish writers, actors, artists, and religious leaders. Published in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel—the deadliest pogrom against Jews since the Holocaust—the collection reflects on the evolving experience of Jewish identity in a time of rising antisemitism. The contributors share personal stories that encompass themes of joy, trauma, resilience, humor, and community. Organized into sections like "Jewish Pride and Joy," "Jewish Mom Life," and "Am I a Good Enough Jew?", the book offers a multifaceted view of contemporary Jewish life. Profits from the book support Artists Against Antisemitism, a nonprofit dedicated to combating hate and promoting understanding.
Email Josh Brooks or call (504) 897-0143 with any questions. All programs take place at the Uptown JCC.
BETTER BALANCE
Balance exercises, along with certain strength exercises, can help prevent falls by improving one's ability to control and maintain body position, whether one is moving or still. Join us for this invigorating, low-impact class.
Wednesdays | 10:45 - 11:30 am
No charge members | $2 non-members
DANCE FOR PARKINSON'S
This FUN, free creative movement classes are specially designed for people living with Parkinson’s. Caregivers and supporting family and friends are welcome, as are individuals with other movement or neurological challenges. Participants report benefits such as improved mood, balance, flexibility, and strength. No experience necessary.
Please join us and dance to LIVE MUSIC by accompanist Jeffrey Pounds!
Sponsored by the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, classes are modeled after the Dance for PD® program developed by the Mark Morris Dance Group and the Brooklyn Parkinson Group, whose network of affiliates now spans over 300 communities in 25 countries around the world!
Wednesdays | 10:30 - 11:45 am
Pre-register onsite during class times, or in advance here. Visit NOBA for more information.
CHAIR YOGA & GUIDED MEDITATION
This class is geared towards seniors and will take place on chairs. It begins with soft stretching and yoga, then moves into guided meditation. Led by Kelly Bond in the Mind/Body Studio.
Fridays | 11:00 am - 11:45 pm
No charge members | $2 non-members
SENIOR CHAIR EXERCISE
Designed for seniors at all levels and abilities, this class involves stretching and strength training. Either exercise from a chair or standing, according to your comfort level. Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays | 10:45 - 11:45 am
Join us for mah jongg, Rummikub or bridge. Challenge your brain, meet new people and spend the afternoon with friends. Bring your lunch; dessert and coffee will be provided.
JCC - Uptown
Tuesdays | 12:00 - 3:00 pm
Free and open to the community
Email Josh Brooks or call (504) 897-0143 with any questions.
Tu B'Shevat Seder
Come celebrate the birthday of the trees with your friends at the J. Join us on this fun festival day as we put on a traditional Tu B'Shevat seder where we will eat fruits and grains that remind us of the land of Israel. The seder incorporates the four traditional types of fruit into four courses. We will have a delicious and interactive meal to celebrate this festive holiday.
Thursday, January 29 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
$5 members | $7 non-members
RSVP with this form by Monday, January 26
Purim Party
It's Purim, and it's time to have fun! Join us for a delicious luncheon—hamantaschen included. After lunch, you will have the opportunity to bake your own hamantaschen and make up mishloach manot (Purim goodie bags) to give to your friends.
Thursday, February 26 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
$5 members | $7 non-members
RSVP with this form by Monday, February 23
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - February
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month Rabbi Mendel Rivkin from Chabad Jewish Center will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
Thursday, February 5 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh by Monday, February 2
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - March
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month (TBA) will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
Thursday, March 5 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh by Monday, March 2
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - April
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month Rabbi Levi will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
Thursday, April 16 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh by Monday, April 13
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - May
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month Rabbi Katie Bauman from Touro Synagogue will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
Thursday, May 7 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh by Monday, May 4
All programs are held in the Metairie Member Lounge. Email Laura Queyrouze at lauraq@nojcc.org with any questions.
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - February
Metairie Member Lounge
Tuesday, February 10 | 12 - 1:30 pm
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month, Rabbi Mendel Ceitlin from Chabad Jewish Center will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
$3 members | $5 non-members
Weekly Wisdom
Free and open to the community | Metairie Member Lounge
Tuesdays | 8:15 - 9:15 am
Start your Tuesday with a dose of inspiration and community. Join Rabbi David Cohen-Henriquez of Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation in our beautiful new Member Lounge for “Weekly Wisdom,” a lively and accessible discussion of the weekly Torah portion (the Parsha). Each week, we’ll delve into the ancient stories and timeless lessons of the Torah, exploring how their wisdom can apply to our modern lives. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with Jewish tradition, engage in meaningful conversation, and get to know fellow community members. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or Torah is necessary—all are welcome to listen, learn, and share. Enjoy complimentary coffee and fresh bagels, generously sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans.
NO RSVP NEEDED
Jewish Studies 101: Introduction to Judaism
Free and open to the community | Metairie Member Lounge
Tuesdays | 11:45 am - 12:45 pm
Join us for a fascinating journey into the heart of the Hebrew Bible in this special interfaith study series, presented in partnership with St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church. Led by Rabbi Gerber of Gates of Prayer and other community leaders, this class offers a unique opportunity to explore familiar biblical texts and core Jewish values. Deepen your understanding of Jewish traditions, beliefs, and practices through Torah/Bible study. Each week, we will delve into the stories, laws, and wisdom of the Old Testament, uncovering layers of meaning through the perspectives of Jewish tradition, commentary, and history. This series is designed to build bridges, foster understanding, and deepen our appreciation for our shared scriptural foundations. No prior knowledge is necessary—just an open mind and a curious spirit.
NO RSVP NEEDED
Midweek Mindfulness & Meditation
Free and open to the community | Metairie Member Lounge
Thursdays | 8:15 - 9:15 am
Find your midweek calm with our new mindfulness and meditation series led by Sandy Cohen. This weekly gathering invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect through simple yet powerful practices designed to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and bring balance to your day. Together, we’ll explore how attention, intention, and embodiment shape our experience of life. You’ll learn gentle, practical tools to steady the nervous system, cultivate presence in your relationships, and feel more connected—whether sitting still or moving through your day. Each session blends meditation, dialogue, and mindful movement, creating a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced practitioners to restore clarity and ease midweek.
NO RSVP NEEDED
The Penguin Lessons
Amid the political turmoil of 1970's Argentina, a downcast English teacher finds a new lease on life when he rescues a stranded penguin.
Thursday, January 22 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm - Uptown
No charge members and non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, January 19
Nonnas
A grieving man finds the recipe for healing when he opens a restaurant and hires Italian grandmothers as chefs in this sweet movie based on a true story. Starring Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco and more.
Thursday, February 19 | 12:00 - 2:15 pm
No charge members and non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, February 16
The Children's Train
In 1946 Italy, a boy is sent north by his mother to live with another woman and escape poverty.
Thursday, March 19 | 12:00 - 2:15 pm
No charge members and non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, March 16
New Orlean Museum of Art
Nicolas Floc’h: Fleuves-Océan, Mississippi Watershed
This exhibition pairs vibrant monochromatic photographs of the color of water made under the surface with dramatic black-and-white landscape photographs made along the banks of the Mississippi and its tributaries, from Louisiana and across the country. Free museum admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. Lunch is on you.
Wednesday, Feb 11 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
Free Museum Admission for LA Residents
RSVP with this form by Monday, Feb 9
Special thank you to our peer facilitators: Dov Glazer, Jillian Richman, and Carol Tully
Email Josh Brooks or call 504-897-0143 if you have questions. All groups take place Uptown.
Current Events Group
Meet others to discuss current news and events. No particular viewpoint is required, just an interest in what's going on in the world. Bring an open mind. This group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month.
Tuesdays
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Free and open to the community
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks
Men's Group
The JCC Men's Group is a monthly discussion group for retired gentlemen to create community and conversations. Meeting on the first Friday of each month, this group provides an opportunity for men to come together to connect, reminisce, and explore a range of topics with their peers.
Fridays
12:45 - 2:00 pm
Free and open to the community
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks
Play Reading Group
Meeting on the third Wednesday of each month, the idea of this group is really very simple; we get together, we sit around a table and we read a play aloud. Everyone has a part or two to read.
Wednesdays
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Free and open to the community
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks
Knit One, Crochet Too
Come and knit and crochet along with us. Beginners are welcome; we will get you started. Already an expert? Share your expertise with the group. Bring your works in progress and some show and tell items. Other handcrafts are also welcome.
Every Monday
10:00 - 11:00 am
Free and open to the community
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks
Small Ship Cruise on the Adriatic Coast: Croatia & It's Islands
October 21, 2026 - November 1, 2026
From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia. Fall 2026, enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise on the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coast aboard a privately chartered ship. Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik and visit the island of Biševo. On Brac Island, take in the “Golden Cape” of Bol. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. Stand before waterfalls of Krka National Park. Get to know Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. See the country’s immaculate beauty as you cruise its vibrant waters and step into its rich history. Join the JCC on this 12-day adventure through Croatia with Collette Travel.
Email rachel@nojcc.org for more information. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Stressed? If you're feeling it, chances are your child is feeling it too. You know the signs; when your mind starts racing and your heartbeat starts racing, your tendency is to get louder and faster. But what you and your body and your child need is for things to slow down and start making sense.
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Members can now access Online Member Services on mobile devices by downloading the New Orleans JCC app in the App Store or Google Play.
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