The JCC is a dynamic and vital community resource providing educational, enrichment, recreational and social services to individuals and families in the Five Towns, Far Rockaway and South West Region of Long Island. We are a community center that inspires learning and friendship in a thoughtful and compassionate environment. As a unique institution, we have created a home through a network of local community sites in neighborhoods bursting with vibrant Jewish life. Our standard for excellence is exemplified by our core of dedicated board members, supporters, volunteers and staff that enhance and enrich the lives of people of all ages.

The JCC will continue to be responsive to our community, caring for those we serve and reflecting the wide mosaic of Jewish life and experience. We will always be a place that encourages unity; where anyone, regardless of faith, social or economic background, can take advantage of all the services we have to offer.

We know that achieving more in the community begins with the people who belong to it. Our special thanks to you, for your enthusiastic support in helping to create our special JCC.

Marion and Aaron Gural —Aaron Gural was born in Manhattan on March 11, 1917. He was raised in Washington Heights by a single mom who instilled in him the value of Jewish life and culture. As a teenager, Aaron spent time after school at the local YM-YWHA (the precursors to JCCs) which kept him focused on his school work and off the streets. Aaron supported himself through college and graduated from New York University at the age of 19.

Marion Katz was the daughter of Jewish Russian immigrants who settled in Binghamton, New York. Marion went to New York City on her own at the age of 18 to be a model at the furrier Alfred Reiner. It was in New York City that Marion and Aaron met on a blind date.

Marion and Aaron were married a year after they met and moved to Long Island where they raised their family and lived for over four decades. Aaron started with virtually nothing and worked hard at building a very successful real estate company. In 1979 Aaron was one of the Founders of the Greater Five Towns YM&YWHA. Later to become the JCC of the Greater Five Towns.

Marion and Aaron Gural supported many Jewish causes, especially UJA-Federation of New York. They were also very active at Congregation Sons of Israel where Aaron served as President. As philanthropic as they were, it was important to them that they gave their time and volunteered at Long Island Jewish Hospital and help those in need.

In keeping with Marion and Aaron Gural’s love of family, Jewish life, education and their love for New York their children, Jeffrey, Jane and Barbara are delighted to support the newly named Marion & Aaron Gural JCC and fulfill their parents’ dream.