It would be safe to say that the Edith and Carl Marks Jewish Community House of Bensonhurst is the busiest place in southwestern Brooklyn. Each week, thousands of people of all ages crowd the corridors of the place on Bay Parkway lovingly known as the "J." That's because there's something here for everyone!
Since 1927, the Marks JCH has been the hub of activity for millions of people. Throughout the year, programs and services are offered for young and old alike...and we don't forget about everyone in between! Our highly trained professional staff works together to create activities and services designed with you in mind.
From fitness programs to preschool and summer camp, to special services for seniors, teens and immigrants, we work hard to provide each and every individual with a high quality and meaningful experience.
Our aim is to be responsive to your needs, to help you in every way we can. But most of all, we hope that you will see the Marks JCH as a place to have fun and unwind. People have come to rely on the Marks JCH in many ways. We're proud of that!
FACTS:
*We currently serve about 4,500 people a year
*52% of the people in the neighborhood surrounding the J are poor or near poor.
*Bensonhurst is a home to about 50,000 Russian-speaking Jews; a large Orthodox population, a growing Asian constituency and a little bit of a mix of everyone else – Israelies, Italians, Irish and every other kind of American.
*There is a large number of senior citizen residents in the community. 89% of the Russian-speaking senior adults live below the federal poverty line.
*Our most requested services include childcare, job placement, senior assistance and English as a Second language classes.
*We are managed by a strong Board of Directors and are strictly monitored by annual government audits
*Our alumni list prides many celebrities including Larry King, Rhea Perlman, Sandy Koufax, Harvey Fierstein, and Elliot Gould.