Monthly Archives: September 2015

Come Sweat for a Cause: Katz JCC Hosts Jon Simon’s Boxx for Tots Toy Drive Now until December 22

MARGATE – The Milton & Betty Katz Jewish Community Center, 501 N. Jerome Avenue in Margate, will once again host Jon Simon’s Boxx for Tots holiday toy collection drive from now until December 22, 2015.

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According to Katz JCC Personal Trainer Jon Simon, last year the event collected more than 3,500 toys for area children and were distributed to charities including Jewish Family Service, The Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) of Atlantic County, Our Lady Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church of Atlantic City, and directly to local families in need.

“Collecting toys through my boxing classes began ten years ago when I saw that the Toys for Tots collection program in my area was not getting the attention it deserved,” Simon said. “So instead of collecting my usual fee for the boxing class that year, I told my participants to bring in a toy for the kids – because every kid needs a new toy.”

According to Simon and the JCC, the interest in donating has grown each year so the toy drive has been extended beyond his special boxing class events.  People interested in donating can bring toys to the Katz JCC’s Front Desk or when they come to take part in one of the boxing classes on December 17 and 22 at 6:45 p.m. and December 18 at 11:45 a.m. Participants of Simon’s boxing class may bring in a new unwrapped toy and the class fee will be waived. Kids can also participate in giving this holiday and bring in a toy during the KIDZ fit boxing class on December 15 at 4 p.m.

Boxing is just one of many classes offered at the JCC’s Fitness Center. “We have added several new classes to our schedule this year to help our members change up their routines and enhance their fitness goals in 2016!” explains JCC Group Fitness Director, Antoinette Wood. New classes include Barre, a total body workout using ballet style bar to strengthen, tone and improve flexibility, TRX, the original suspension workout and several Mind – Body classes including Meditation. Bring a toy when you come in to the JCC to enjoy one of the many group exercise and mind body classes offered throughout the week.

The final class on December 22, featuring a live DJ Paul Laup of Atlantic City and violinist D. Sharpe is the last opportunity to sweat for this great cause!

“We are happy once again to support Jon’s efforts in collecting toys for area children at our community center,” Chief Operating Officer of the Katz JCC Marg Mancuso said. “Regardless of race, religion or national origin, the Katz JCC aims to reach the entire community in any way we can. We hope the toys Jon collects and distributes helps put a smile on many children’s faces.”

For more information about the Milton & Betty Katz JCC visit www.jccatlantic.org or call 609-822-1167.