# J Los Angeles > J Los Angeles (JLA) is a Jewish community center serving Los Angeles for nearly 70 years. We build community based on Jewish values and connection to Israel by creating opportunities for gathering and learning from generation to generation. We offer inclusive Jewish and communal experiences across the religious spectrum, denominational spectrum, and socioeconomic boundaries of Los Angeles. J Los Angeles provides early childhood education for ages 6 weeks to 5 years, year-round camps and break camps, sports and wellness programs including basketball and swimming, Jewish living programs with Shabbat and holiday celebrations, teen leadership programs, and adult cultural arts. Over 25,000 children have participated in our programs. We welcome members and non-members, families and individuals, across all ages and backgrounds. ## About J Los Angeles - [About Us](https://www.thejla.org/about-us): Our mission is to build community based on Jewish values and connection to Israel. Our vision is to provide impactful and inclusive Jewish and communal experiences across the religious, denominational, socioeconomic, and geographical boundaries of Los Angeles. - [History](https://www.thejla.org/about-us/history): J Los Angeles was originally founded as Westside JCC and opened in 1954. For nearly 70 years, we have held a special place in Los Angeles as a hub for Jewish community connection, learning, and celebration. - [Our Team](https://www.thejla.org/about-us/our-team): Meet the dedicated staff working together to shape the Jewish future of Los Angeles, including program directors, educators, coaches, and community leaders. - [Contact](https://www.thejla.org/contact): Reach us at 323-938-2531 or info@thejla.org. We are located in Los Angeles and serve families throughout the greater Los Angeles area. ## Early Childhood Education - [Early Childhood Center (ECC)](https://www.thejla.org/ecc): Our Early Childhood Center provides year-round care and education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. We use a Jewish values-inspired "Mensch Curriculum" that promotes positive self-esteem, social skills, creativity, and independence. Features include flexible scheduling, extended hours, experienced teachers, and enrichment activities like music, movement, and art. - [The Hive](https://www.thejla.org/ecc/the-hive): Our infant program for babies 6 weeks to 12 months with a 4:1 "bee" to teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention. The Hive includes experienced caregivers, a dedicated crib room, and a nurturing environment designed specifically for infant development. - [Baby & Me](https://www.thejla.org/ecc/baby-me): A community program for caretakers and children from birth to 3 years old. Baby & Me fosters community gathering while introducing Judaism, gross motor skills development, imagination, literacy, and musicality to young children. ## Camp Programs - [JCamp](https://www.thejla.org/camp): Our signature day camp program offering year-round camp experiences during school breaks. JCamp provides a safe and enjoyable atmosphere with activities including arts and crafts, sports, field trips, swimming, and Jewish cultural experiences. When school is out, the J is in. - [Break Camps](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Holiday break camps throughout the year during LAUSD school breaks. Children make new friends, engage in exciting activities, and create lasting memories. Break camps serve as a key childcare solution for working parents during school holidays. ## Sports & Wellness Programs - [Sports & Wellness Overview](https://www.thejla.org/sports-wellness): Our sports and wellness programming includes youth and adult sports leagues, skills clinics, and over 20 fitness and wellness offerings weekly. Programs focus on mobility, endurance, flexibility, and building community through physical activity. - [JFit](https://www.thejla.org/membership): Fitness programs at the J focused on mobility, endurance, and flexibility. JFit includes group fitness classes, personal training options, and wellness programs for adults of all fitness levels. - [JSplash](https://www.thejla.org/membership): Dedicated pool time for swimming with children, friends, and family. JSplash offers open swim sessions for JLA members to enjoy recreational swimming and water play. - [Swim Lessons](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Year-round swimming program where over 25,000 children have learned to be water safe. Our lessons develop self-confidence, stroke skills, and the ability to be safe in and around water. JLA members receive discounts on swim lessons. - [Water Aerobics](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): A low-impact workout using the soothing properties of water to promote strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Water aerobics is open to JLA members and suitable for all fitness levels. - [Adult Lap Swimming](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Lap swimming provides an opportunity for swimmers to work at their own pace. This full-body workout is suitable for adults of any age and fitness level. Open to JLA members. - [JHoops Adult Basketball League](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Co-ed recreational basketball league for adults. Sign up your own team or join as a free agent. JHoops provides dynamic competition and community connection through basketball. - [Open Gym](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Open court basketball sessions for pickup games. Stay at the top of your game, hone your skills, connect with fellow players, and have fun. Basketball open house events run from 4-7 p.m. - [Youth Basketball Clinic](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Children learn basketball essentials with Coach Ryan, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and teamwork. Focused on developing fundamental skills in a supportive environment. - [Youth Basketball League](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Our youngest athletes compete at the J with supportive coaching, skill development, and teamwork. The goal is to promote camaraderie and a love for basketball among young players. - [Youth Soccer Clinic](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Indoor soccer program where athletes learn fundamentals like passing, shooting, defense, and teamwork in our indoor gym facility. - [Special Maccabees](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): An inclusive basketball initiative created specifically for neurodivergent Jewish athletes. Special Maccabees provides a fun, supportive environment for athletes with different learning and developmental needs. - [Stretch & Movement](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): A gentle and inclusive exercise program designed to promote mobility, flexibility, and overall well-being for older adults. Open to the community with no advance registration required. - [Family Gym](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Multi-sport family fun in the JLA gym every Monday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Families can play soccer, basketball, and other sports together in an open court session suitable for all ages. ## Jewish Living & Celebrations - [Jewish Living](https://www.thejla.org/jewish-living): Connect with Jewish culture, traditions, and community through our year-round programs including Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, Torah study, and cultural events. - [JCelebrates](https://www.thejla.org/children-families/jcelebrates): Programs for families with children looking to celebrate Shabbat and Jewish holidays in an engaging and fun atmosphere. JCelebrates makes Jewish traditions accessible and meaningful for families. - [Community Shabbat Dinner](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Monthly Shabbat dinners for the whole family. Families bring their own dinner and JLA provides the music, crafts, activities, and community atmosphere. A welcoming way to celebrate Shabbat together. - [High Holidays](https://www.thejla.org/children-families/highholidays): JLA offers High Holiday services including Rosh Hashanah, Kol Nidre, Yom Kippur services, Neilah, and Sukkot in the Wild. Services blend music, prayer, and activities suitable for families and individuals. - [Movable Minyan](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Member-led Shabbat services that combine song, study, and interpretation, blending Jewish tradition with modern sensibilities. The community emphasizes inclusivity, music, and Torah discussion. Services are offered year-round. - [JExplorers](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): An extracurricular program for children ages 5 and up featuring Jewish history, customs, and values through interactive activities and creative experiences. ## Teen & Youth Programs - [Diller Teen Fellows](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): A highly selective year-long leadership training program for Jewish teens. Diller provides a powerful and transformative extra-curricular experience focused on Jewish identity, leadership development, and connection to Israel. - [JCC Maccabi Games](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): An international athletic competition and Jewish identity-building experience for Jewish teenagers. The 2026 games will be held in Toronto and Kansas City from August 2-7, 2026. Recruitment starts well in advance. - [JKids Theater](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): J Los Angeles' afterschool theater program with Kids on Stage. Youth participate in theatrical productions and develop performance skills, confidence, and creativity. ## Adult Programs - [Adult Art Workshop](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Get creative with like-minded artists in the Adult Art program. Join instructor Leslie and explore the diverse world of mixed media art covering a range of artistic expression forms. All levels of experience are welcome to participate. ## Membership & Support - [Membership](https://www.thejla.org/membership): Become a member of J Los Angeles and enjoy access to our facilities, programs, and community. Membership includes access to JFit fitness programs, JSplash pool time, discounted program rates, and priority registration. - [Donate](https://www.thejla.org/donate): Support our mission to enrich lives, build community, and inspire Jewish journeys. Donations to J Los Angeles help us provide programs and services to thousands of families across Los Angeles. - [Careers](https://www.thejla.org/careers): Join the growing JLA team and make a difference in the Los Angeles Jewish community. We hire educators, coaches, program directors, camp counselors, and administrative staff. ## All Programs - [View All Programs](https://www.thejla.org/all-programs): Browse our complete directory of programs including early childhood education, camps, sports leagues, fitness classes, swimming, Jewish celebrations, teen programs, adult arts, and community events. Programs are available for all ages from infants to seniors.