The program is available weekdays between the hours of 2:30 and 6 p.m. at the center, 1160 Dickinson St.
SPRINGFIELD - The Springfield Jewish Community Center is doing its part to cultivate future community leaders through J-Team, a community leadership and mentor program for fifth- through eighth-grade students.
“This age group appreciates having a dedicated program and space that is separate from the younger age groups,” says Kim O’Neill, tween coordinator at the center.
The program is available weekdays between the hours of 2:30 and 6 p.m. at the center, 1160 Dickinson St.
Students can participate as many days as they choose. J-Team activities include field trips, swimming, community service, homework help, mentor development and training, and leadership training.
J-Team member Daniel Madden, left, pauses with children from the JCC Kids Space program (left to right): Jasmine Leng, Miya Wranovix, Jack Barilaro, Melody Zhao.
The leadership training portion uses “The Leader In Me” curriculum, based on Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”
Recently, J-Team participant Daniel Madden said, “J-Team helps train us to be counselors.” Added Jordan Lee, “We participate in fun activities and community service. My favorite so far is donating lost and found items to Goodwill.”
To learn more about J-Team, contact Becca Coolong, youth and family services director, by calling (413) 739-4715 or email to rcoolong@springfieldjcc.org.
More information is also available at the center’s website, SpringfieldJCC.org.