The Shaw JCC in Akron is prepped and ready for a summer of fun with an abundance of new programming and one of the best camp environments around
By Mary Malik
It’s time to make your summer plans, and if swimming, camp for the kids, working out, meeting new friends, or trying something new are on your list, the Shaw JCC in Akron should be your summer destination.
“Registration is open now for swim lessons, swim team, summer camps and other activities,” says marketing director Shannon Piggott. “And if you’re not a member yet, give us a call or email our membership director to explore all of the membership options for families, young adults, and seniors.”
The JCC is all about community, wellness and accommodating all members, whether they’re here for a great workout, a swim with the family or trying a new activity. There’s something for everyone here, and summer is time for the pool. Shannon reminds everyone to be sure to sign the kids up for swim team.
And even as a summer member you’ll have access to the indoor and outdoor pool, along with classes, activities and workout facilities.
Now is also the time to sign up for Camp JCC. And there are some new specialty camps this year you’ll definitely want to check out. “Along with our traditional 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. camp with after care until 5 p.m., we have STEM camps, Wizardry and Slime Squad camps and our arts and sports camps,” says Shannon. “New this year is Farm and Science Camp that takes place off-site as a partnership with Crown Point Ecology Center.”
Also new is Pre-Teen Camp Track for sixth- through eighth-graders. Youth & Camp Program Director Lyndsey Heffern saw a need for a different style of camp experience for this particular age group.
“We were intentional in creating opportunities for our older youth this summer, including our Pre-Teen Camp Track as well as experiences at Crown Point Ecology Center,” says Lyndsey. “The Shaw JCC is unlike any other camp environment because we are entirely kid-centric, and our dedicated staff members are committed to creating an extraordinary experience for each individual child.”
Lyndsey says these particular campers will experience Camp JCC in a whole new way, working on team-building and even taking part in escape room challenges.
The Shaw JCC is a positive environment where membership offers so much more than simply a fitness center. It’s an inclusive community for all.
“This year our new yoga programming has been a lot of fun,” says Shannon. “We’re offering Wine Yoga, Beer Yoga, Sunrise Coffee Yoga and we also did a Kitty and Puppy Yoga, which was a hit, and we hope to do again.”
These specialty yoga events are a not-too-intense yoga flow with a theme and some fun socialization with the group.
“For the Kitten & Puppy Yoga, we partnered with One-of-a-Kind Pets and every pet was adoptable,” says Shannon. “These events are a great way to get an introduction to yoga and meet and socialize with some new people.”
Whether you’re already a member or looking for something new this summer, check out everything the JCC offers families and singles and sign up for a summer of fun.
The Shaw JCC is located at 750 White Pond Dr. in Akron. For membership information and a complete list of programs and activities, check the website ShawJCC.org, or call 330-867-7850.
For membership information contact Membership Director Ryan Miller at 330-835-0049 or email Ryan at rmiller@shawjcc.org.