The PJCC is a beneficiary of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin, and Sonoma counties.

Mission:

The mission of the PJCC is to build a caring and connected community, develop leadership and strengthen Jewish identity and values in a center with an environment that is welcoming to all people at every stage of life.

History

Founded by a group of enthusiastic Jewish community members, the PJCC was brought to life in a rented home in Burlingame in 1948. A place of compassion and a symbol of unity to all, the PJCC quickly became popular among many San Mateo County residents. With demand for the Center growing by leaps and bounds, the tiny house was soon too small to support the needs of its membership, so the Center was moved to a storefront in San Carlos. By 1960, due to the Peninsula's increasing population, the Board of Directors eagerly set out to find a new home yet again. In 1963, the PJCC purchased and opened a much larger facility on a 4+ acre site in the Belmont hills where it remained for the next 40 years.

First formed in the 19th Century to enable new immigrants to learn English, find housing, and promote community building, Jewish Community Centers soon became a hub of activity for people of all ages. Small classes for toddlers became early childhood departments; pools and steam rooms grew into full-fledged health, wellness, and recreation departments; and, as the population aged, information and services for seniors grew.

Currently, there are over 250 JCCs (Jewish Community Centers) in North America, including 17 in California alone. Although each center is unique, they share the goal of providing programs and services that reinforce the life-affirming values and proud traditions we embrace.