Volunteering
2700 Spring Road, Newport News, Virginia 23606 Phone: (757) 930-1422 Fax: (757) 930-3762

THE POWER OF THE UJC TEAM

Time is such a precious commodity. The days and weeks have passed so quickly, in the eight months since I assumed the position of Interim Executive Director. I now need to pause for a moment to adequately thank the staff for their support and dedication. Every day is a learning experience for me, and I depend on each and every one of the staff members to guide me through the broad range of the Director’s responsibilities.

As you may or may not be aware, we maintain a small staff, consisting of only nine individuals. These dedicated employees, must insure that all functions of both the JCC and Federation are maintained.

Administrative Assistant

Let’s begin with the lady who is both my right and left hand. Linda Molin has been a valuable employee of the UJC for seventeen years. Some of her talents are showcased every month with the publication of our newsletter. Her responsibilities include working with campaign and with the Endowment Fund. She is our in-house historian and her wealth of information provides me with input and advice which is invaluable.

Secretary/Computer Administrator

Elsa Achong has been part of the staff for more than seven years and has a dual responsibility in our organization. She is the first person people meet when they enter our facility. Her friendly smile and warm approach set the tone for all of our visitors. Elsa is also our computer tech. It is her responsibility to maintain our computer network, install programs, check for viruses, and update our web site.

Education Director

Carmela Malkin-Kuhn began working here as a Hebrew teacher more than fifteen years ago. Our community is fortunate to have an individual that is so devoted to the social and educational development of our children. Her present duties include directing the Hebrew School, summer and winter camps, as well as teaching in the preschool, kindergarten, and the Hadassah Training Wheels program. In addition, she is also the advisor to the JCCY (Jewish Community Center Youth) club and Panim el Panim, and, with the help of an energetic committee, organized and implemented the Babies to Bubbies events.

Maintenance Tech

Sam Truini is our "man of all trades." He has the huge responsibility to maintain the UJC campus. This is a difficult job, given the age of the facility. Our mechanical equipment is in constant need of repairs. The children frequently provide challenges by hiding their toys or other objects in the toilets. Through all of this he is always able to keep a smile on his face. In addition to the buildings, Sam is also responsible for the maintenance of our vehicles and he drives our 25 seat bus for the JCC Seniors and other events. This provides him with the opportunity to go on a number of field trips.

Caterer

Judy Morewitz is our in house caterer. Seven years ago Judy accepted our invitation to join the UJC staff. We found out immediately that there is a big difference between a caterer and a cook. Her catering expertise and culinary skills insure that our meals and dessert receptions are appealing to both our eyes and our taste buds.

Comptroller

Sheila Jones is our bookkeeper and is responsible for maintaining the financial records of both the UJC and the JCC. She is an easy-going individual who has the ability to cope with the many spur-of-the-moment demands we place on her daily. Please do not hesitate to contact her if you have a question about your account.

Preschool Director

Randi Turczynski was hired two years ago to be the director of our Jewish preschool. She brought to the position enthusiasm, a great work ethic, and an excellent teaching background. Randi has the responsibility of running the day to day operation of the preschool and is also our kindergarten teacher.

Jewish Family Services - Social Worker

Jewish Family Services has maintained an office in the UJC for 14 years. Since 1990, Ellen Waranch has provided essential services to our community from JFS. Ellen reaches out to individuals and families in their time of need. She deals with the elderly, teenagers in trouble, families in crisis, divorce and adoption. Her training and up-beat personality, enable her to be an effective counselor.

We applaud the dedication and contributions of our entire staff member including our outstanding Hebrew School and Preschool staffs. Their efforts insure the smooth and flawless day to day operation of our programming and administration. I am proud and honored to be part of this team. Todah Rabah.

Steve and I wish the entire Jewish community a Happy Passover. May you conclude your Seder, as our family does, with joyous songs and the following words:

L’SHANA HABAH B’YERUSHOLAYIM- NEXT YEAR IN JERUSALEM