BRJCC History

Serving Our Large Jewish Community

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The Center was primarily founded to serve the large Jewish community residing in Berkeley and the surrounding areas. Our educational, cultural, social and recreational programs are designed to reflect the diverse needs of this community, which includes children, traditional and non-traditional families, intercultural families, singles, adults and seniors.

A Comfortable Gathering Place

The Center provides a comfortable gathering place for Jews wishing to affirm their cultural and ethnic origins. Our members and visitors represent all facets of the Jewish community and many are unaffiliated with other Jewish organizations or synagogues. All programs emphasize and celebrate Jewish values and culture, and all are open to the whole community.

A Growing Membership

In the 25 years of our existence, membership has grown to the present level of 900 households. We estimate that 10,000 people, Jews and non-Jews, participate in our programs annually. An active board of directors sets Center policy and direction. Center programs are implemented by a 60-person staff together with a strong and active volunteer team.

Founded in 1980 in a Small Storefront

The BRJCC was founded in 1980 to serve as a catalyst and focal point for the development of a vital Jewish community in northern Alameda and western Contra Costa counties. In 1981, the Center moved from the small storefront where it was originally located to its present home, a former public school and school board building, on Walnut Street in North Berkeley. In 1987, the Center purchased the property from the Berkeley Unified School District.

Our National Landmark Building

Our building is a registered national landmark, designed in the California Mission Revival style by the noted architect Ernest Coxhead. Built in 1915, it is one of the few public buildings designed by Coxhead.

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