A first-time visitor to the Jewish Community Center’s Marilyn Fox Building might not guess the facility is 28 years old. Inside and out, it looks brand new, following a comprehensive 15-month renovation. On Thursday, Sept. 4, the center took the spotlight when it hosted a renovation dedication ceremony to celebrate completion of the effort.
Key changes in the building include a makeover of the community commons area, updated restrooms, cycle studio, locker rooms and administrative offices. A new infrared sauna is now installed in the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Other enhancements are a renovated recovery room, KidZone babysitting, a kosher kitchen and community locker room. Colorful, unique artwork provided by philanthropist Michael Staenberg now hangs throughout the building. Custom-designed mezuzas have been placed in each doorway, created by St. Louis-based glassblowing artist David Alper.
The work was funded through a capital campaign that raised $16.2 million. Construction and renovation costs for the project totaled $14.6 million. The additional $1.5 will be held in reserve for future capital needs. Opening the dedication ceremony, Debbie Lefton, campaign co-chair, told a gathering of more than 200 supporters why the project matters for the St. Louis community.
“It not only marks the dedication of our new JCA Adult Day at the J space,” Lefton said. “Along with our beautiful state-of-the-art updated facility, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter for our community as we create the J for tomorrow.”
One of the most significant additions to the building, noted by Lefton, is the Adult Day of the J, which serves older adults and young adults with disabilities. The Fox Building will provide a resource for this growing need. Currently, there are 22,000 residents aged 65+, and 4,000 people with intellectual or developmental disabilities in the Chesterfield area.
The fitness center also received a facelift, and now offers a feature popular with many members, according to Brad Horwitz, the J’s chief Jewish engagement officer.
“Some recreation trends come and go—who remembers Jazzercise?” Horwitz said during the dedication. “What was one new activity that has captured the imagination in the last few years? Pickleball. And even here at the J, did you see the new pickleball court? Pickleball isn’t just about fun and exercise, it’s about accessibility, it’s about connection, and it’s about community.”
During the dedication ceremony, Monte Sandler, J board chair, told the gathering the renovated Fox Building was built on a strong foundation.
“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us,” Sandler said. Our founders, visionaries, and dedicated leaders who planted seeds decades ago so that future generations could thrive. To our founders who played a role in the earliest days of this agency, and to their offspring and extended family here today, thank you. Your leadership and generosity made it possible for us to dream even bigger. This new building is a continuation of your legacy.”
