Everything. For everyone.
About The J
The Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center (The J) builds connections to the Jewish Community in a setting that enriches physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
Serving Scottsdale and Beyond
Since its inception as part of the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus in 2002, The J remains committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals of all ages and faiths.
It strives to uphold the highest standards in its facilities and programming, offering a diverse range of classes, services, and events tailored to meet the needs of the broader Scottsdale and Phoenix communities.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The Valley of the Sun J operates under Tax ID # 86-0622258. This designation underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability in serving the community’s needs through charitable contributions and support.
Join The J Today!
Explore our website to learn more about our all-ages programs, events, and services, or how you can get involved today.
Our Core Values
These core values guide The Valley of the Sun J in our mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion while enriching lives through meaningful connections and experiences.
Culture:
We honor our Jewish heritage and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive community that embraces diversity and welcomes individuals of all backgrounds.
Compassion/Heart:
Compassion, altruism, and warmth are at the heart of The J. We embody Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) through inclusive practices that promote equity and create a sense of belonging.
Quality:
We are committed to providing high-quality experiences for all stages of life, ensuring that every program and service at The J meets the diverse needs of our community with integrity and fairness.
Convenience:
Prioritizing accessibility, we offer personalized experiences that accommodate individual and family schedules, promoting equity and inclusivity in community engagement.
Our History
Ina Levine
Bill Levine and his wife Ina moved to The Valley from Brooklyn in 1960.
They and their three children were active members of the local Jewish Community Center, then located in Central Phoenix. As their family and community roots grew, so too did the success of Bill’s ventures.
When Ina passed away in 1999, Bill wanted to provide a fitting memorial to her devotion to Jewish life and causes. At the time, the existing JCC was looking for a new home, so Bill purchased 30 acres at Sweetwater and Scottsdale Roads. He donated the land to build and with his generosity and that of many other community donors, the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus was opened in 2002 and became the hub of the Jewish and greater community.
Today, the campus is home to the Valley of the Sun JCC, Pardes Jewish Day School, Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix and several other Jewish agencies. While the campus is founded on Jewish values such as being kind and repairing the world, it is an inclusive center where all are welcome regardless of faith, background or ability.
Our History
Martin Pear Dedication
Martin Pear (Marty) was a JCC executive and devoted his life to the Jewish Community Professional world serving in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Florida, and Arizona.
Marty entered and served his communities with dedication, integrity, compassion and humility. We honor him and the work to which he devoted so much of his life by striving to emulate his example, by caring for one another, and by remaining steadfast in our commitment to something more – something greater in all of us.
Also known for his generosity, loyalty, love, resiliency and positive attitude, Martin and his wife Beverly inspired their family to live a life with the values of Chesed (loving-kindness) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world). They raised four children and developed deep and meaningful relationships with all 14 of their grandchildren who continue to carry on Marty’s legacy.
The building that houses The J, along with many other Jewish agencies, is proudly dedicated to Marty and countless other Jewish Communal professionals that give their heart and soul each day to sustain, strengthen, and create vibrant and warm environments that are instrumental in generating a transformative impact throughout communities worldwide.
Explore More About The J
The Ina Levine Campus
The Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus stands as a testament to the vision and generosity of Bill Levine, who, along with his family, played a pivotal role in its establishment and growth.
Why join The J?
Better. Together.
An all-inclusive membership not only gives you unlimited access to the state-of-the-art Health Club @ Valley of the Sun J, but also saves you on everything from individual programs and activities to daycare and camps for the kids.
Membership just means more. And it puts you squarely in the center of the community.
