My Nonprofit Reviews
Emet
Review for The Joyce D & Andrew J Mandell Greater Hartford Jewish Community, West Hartford, CT, USA
According to the JCC's mission statement, it is dedicated to "Jewish identification and the creative continuity of the Jewish people." Unfortunately, this organization pays no more than lip service to its mission, chosing instead to run its facilities as a for-profit fitness center and preschool. Examples of its disregard for its mission include:
* Running their fitness center and Swim and Tennis Club on the Sabbath
* Serving non-kosher food at their Swim and Tennis Club
Perhaps the worst thing about the JCC is the fact that its success with its for-profit endeavors allow it to execute massive marketing campaigns that raise funds which should instead be going to other Jewish non-profits in the region, Jewish non-profits that--unlike the JCC-- excel at their stated missions.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I have not experienced any results of this organization. It does not fulfill its mission.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Have it adhere to its mission statement by: 1) Closing on the Sabbath (or at the very least, remaining open on the Sabbath *because* of the Sabbath and not *despite* the Sabbath) 2) Placing *all* of its facilities under the auspicies of the Hartford Kashrut Commission. 3) Restructuring its board to include a Rabbinic position with veto powers regarding issues of Jewish law or tradtion.
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
No
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
None
How did you learn about this organization?
Through its massive marketing campaigns and its behemoth facilities.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
1997
