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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 November 2025.
Author Talk: Jennifer Anne Moses “You’ve Told Me Before”
Sometimes hilarious, sometimes sad, always compelling, the stories in this collection explore the many manifestations of being Jewish in a modern and largely secular world. Jennifer Anne Moses creates characters, mostly American, who are struggling with love, relationships, faith, tradition, family, and the ties that bind. Join us for this playful discussion on her latest book. Bring your lunch; dessert and coffee will be served. Books will be available for purchase.
Monday, November 3 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
No charge members and non-members
RSVP with this form by Thursday, October 30
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.
November Book Club: Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
Tuesday, November 18 | 1:30 - 3:00 pm | Uptown JCC
Reviewer: Chloe Evans, English Studies Major & English Department Office Manager, Loyola University
The Last Dekrepitzer follows the journey of Shmuel Meir Lichtbencher, the sole survivor of a Hasidic sect known for its fiddling tradition. After losing his family in the Holocaust, Shmuel Meir, now known as Sam Lightup, is smuggled into the United States by Black American soldiers. He settles in rural Mississippi, where he lives among the Black community, speaks Black English, preaches, and plays the blues with the Brown Sugar Ramblers trio. His marriage to a Black woman, Lula Curtin, leads to a cross-burning incident, prompting their move to New York City. In Manhattan, he collaborates with the Reverend Gary Davis, a renowned blind guitarist. Throughout his journey, Shmuel Meir grapples with his faith, expressing his prayers through his music, seeking solace and meaning in a world marked by loss and displacement
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 & MEDITATION
This class geared towards seniors will take place on chairs and begins with soft stretching and yoga. It will then move to guided meditation. Led by Bambi Maloney in the Mind/Body Studio.
Fridays | 11:00 am - 12:00 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.
Piatigorsky Foundation Concert and Lunch
We are fortunate to have the Piatigorsky Foundation return to New Orleans for a classical music concert at the Uptown JCC. Cellist and Piatigorsky Foundation founder Evan Drachman will be accompanied by pianist Richard Dowling in a performance that is both enchanting and informative, as they intersperse the music with anecdotes and insights into the pieces they perform. Join us for a catered lunch followed by a fabulous concert.
Thursday, November 13 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
$5 members | $7 non-members
RSVP with this form by Thursday, November 7
Chanukah Party
Are you ready for latkes and dreidel games? Join your friends for a delicious luncheon filled with all the traditional Chanukah foods, including latkes and sufganiyot (doughnuts). After lunch, stay for some live music to bring in the holiday spirit. This program is generously sponsored by the Jewish Endowment Foundation.
Thursday, December 18 | 12:00 -2:00 pm
$5 members | $7 non-members | Uptown
RSVP with this form by Monday, December 15
UPTOWN - Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - November
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, November 6 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members | Uptown
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, November 3
METAIRIE - Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - November
Join us at the Metairie JCC for our new monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month, Rabbi David Cohen Henriquez will be joining us.
Bring your own lunch - drinks and desserts provided.
Free for members and non-members.
RSVP with this form or to Laura Queyrouze
UPTOWN - Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi - December
Join us for our monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month Rabbi Sherman from Temple Sinai will be joining us after we have a light lunch.
Thursday, December 4 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm
$3 members | $5 non-members | Uptown
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, December 1
All programs are held in the Metairie Member Lounge. Email Laura Queyrouze at lauraq@nojcc.org with any questions.
Games Day
Free and open to the community | Metairie Member Lounge
Mondays | 11:45 am - 12:45 pm
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.
Weekly Wisdom
Free and open to the community | Metairie Member Lounge
Tuesdays, October 21 - December 30 | 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, October 21 - December 30 | 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
Wednesdays, November 5 - December 31 | 8:15 - 9:00 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
Lunch & Learn with the Rabbi
Join us at the Metairie JCC for our new monthly Lunch & Learn as we discuss interesting topics with a local Jewish leader. This month, Rabbi David Cohen Henriquez will be joining us.
Bring your own lunch - drinks and desserts provided.
Free for members and non-members.
RSVP with this form or to Laura Queyrouze
The Historic New Orleans Collection's groundbreaking exhibition Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration drew thousands of visitors before it closed in February, and its content has since been adapted into a book, edited by Nick Weldon. Captive State presented a chronological narrative explaining how, over the course of more than 300 years, Louisiana has come to be recognized as the incarceration capital of the world. The book augments the exhibition by highlighting some of the exhibition’s key objects, data visualizations, and profiles of Louisianians impacted by the interrelated systems of slavery and incarceration throughout the state’s history. More than a memoir of the exhibition, the book will serve as a source document that can be used by advocates, reformers, and educators alike.
Nick Weldon is an editor at the Historic New Orleans Collection, whose work includes the award-winning graphic history Monumental, the book adaptation of Captive State, and the forthcoming graphic history Timber Rattlers. Join us for a delicious lunch before the lecture begins.
Join Eric Seiferth as he shares insights into curating The Trail They Blazed at The Historic New Orleans Collection. Developed in close collaboration with individuals who were part of the local Civil Rights Movement, this powerful exhibition brings to life personal stories of social and racial justice—told by those who experienced them firsthand. Join us for a delicious before the lecture begins.
Movie Day: The Red Sea Diving Resort
Join us to watch the film, The Red Sea Diving Resort. A story based on true events that tells the gripping story of international agents who use a deserted resort in Sudan as a front to smuggle thousands of Ethiopian Jewish refugees to safety in Israel. This suspenseful and inspiring film highlights courage, ingenuity, and the power of human compassion. Bring your lunch; movie snacks will be served.
Thursday, November 20 | 12:00 - 2:00 pm - Uptown
No charge members and non-members
RSVP with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, November 17
MORE TO COME
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 for November with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, November 10
RSVP for December with this form or to Josh Brooks by Monday, December 8
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
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Free and open to the community
RSVP for November with this form or to Josh Brooks by Thursday, November 6
RSVP for December with this form or to Josh Brooks by Thursday, December 4
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 for November with this form or to Josh Brooks by Tuesday, November 18
RSVP for December with this form or to Josh Brooks by Tuesday, December 16
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
Email Rachel Ruth at rachel@nojcc.org to RSVP
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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