The Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Pittsburgh and the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership, “Unity in Community”, designed to bring people together, foster dialogue, and stand against hate in all its forms.
This historic collaboration leverages the deep-rooted community connections of both organizations, creating a platform for education, engagement, and understanding at a time when unity is more important than ever. The partnership was inspired by the shared vision of YMCA CEO Amy Kienle and JCC CEO Jason Kunzman, whose connection sparked a commitment to building bridges across Pittsburgh’s diverse communities.
“This partnership reflects our shared belief that community thrives when we learn from one another and work together to confront hate,” said Amy Kienle, CEO of YMCA Greater Pittsburgh. “By uniting the YMCA’s wide-reaching network with the JCC’s strong educational programming, we are creating spaces where dialogue, understanding, and connection can flourish.”
“Our organizations have always been pillars of support and education in Pittsburgh,” said Jason Kunzman, CEO of the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh. “Through Unity in Community, we are intentionally coming together to educate, engage, and empower our neighbors to resist hatred and embrace inclusivity.”
The initiative launches with the Curious Conversations Speaker Series, running from Fall 2025 through Spring 2026. This series will create meaningful learning opportunities for families, educators, and community members, tackling pressing topics while fostering dialogue, education, and connection. Events will take place in accessible venues across Pittsburgh, including the JCC, YMCA branches, churches, and community centers, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Program Highlights & Key Dates:
- October 19–25: United Against Hate Week
- January 19: MLK Program – Resisting Racism
- February 16: Combating Jew Hatred
- April 16: Diverse Abilities
- May 19: LGBTQ+ Rights and Advocacy
- June: Staff Training on Wellness, Resilience, and Summer Program Support
“Unity in Community is about more than events; it’s about fostering ongoing connections,” added Kienle. “We want everyone in Pittsburgh to know that this series is open to all – a space to come, interact, and engage with one another.”
“In a world that too often highlights division, this partnership is a testament to what can happen when institutions rooted in compassion and service unite for the greater good,” Kunzman added. “Unity in Community is not just a program; it’s a movement toward a more empathetic and resilient Pittsburgh.”
Rooted in education, intergroup dialogue, storytelling, and collaborative action, Unity in Community combines the complementary strengths of both organizations to effectively reduce prejudice, increase empathy, and build resilient communities. By creating platforms for people from diverse backgrounds to interact, share stories, and learn together, the partnership offers a research-backed approach to combating hate and extremism.
Further details on the speaker series and individual events will be released in the coming weeks – more information about the project can be found at https://jccpgh.org/jewish-life/unity-in-community/
About the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh:
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh is a cornerstone of community life in Pittsburgh, dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. The JCC offers a wide range of programs and services for individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds, including fitness, arts, culture, education, and social services.
About the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh:
The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh builds community through programs that promote health, education, social responsibility, and inclusion, serving as a trusted organization for individuals and families across the region.
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