The J Launches Public Fundraising Campaign for Pool and Theatre

The J recently launched the ‘Growing Our J’ campaign, a significant expansion initiative designed to strengthen its rapidly growing community. Rooted in The J’s mission to create a vibrant, inclusive space for people of all ages, the campaign focuses on two key developments: the renovation of The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre and the construction of a new indoor, family friendly, recreational pool. As the community continues to grow, this campaign represents a timely investment in wellness, family engagement and shared connection.

President and CEO of The J Jim Sluyter is hopeful that this expansion will enhance the community’s opportunities to gather throughout the year.

"We are always looking to expand our members' experiences here at The J and this new recreational pool is so exciting because it will provide people of all ages the ability to enjoy time with friends and family in warm, inviting water year-round. It further enhances our mission and ability to serve our members and our community."

Through the campaign, The J aims to raise $12 million to support capital growth and facility improvements that will benefit members for years to come. To date, more than $8.5 million has already been committed by generous donors, reflecting the community’s shared belief in The J’s mission and future. Funds raised will directly support the renovation of The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre and the construction of a new indoor recreational pool.

The vision initially began with Danielle and Sam Levine, who recognized a need for more year-round activity opportunities for their grandchildren.

“We wanted to help create a space that brings families together throughout the year,” Sam Levine said. “The J has always been a place where our family feels connected, and we hope this project helps others experience that same sense of community.”

“Seeing our grandchildren learn, play and grow here inspired us to give back,” added Danielle Levine. “It’s meaningful to know we’re helping build a space where future generations can make memories together.”

With their lead gift, Danielle and Sam Levine have played a pivotal role in advancing the campaign and inspiring others to join this transformative community effort.

After playing a pivotal role in The J’s previous capital campaign, Scott Slabotsky once again brings his strategic leadership and vision to ‘Growing Our J’ as campaign chair.

“My passion for this campaign focuses on the collaborative vision we have as we look forward to the next 20 years, the growing needs and wants of our members, as well as being aware of what is being offered by our competitors,” Slabotsky said. “This new indoor water park will be cutting edge and will give our membership year-round enjoyment that we currently don't offer today.”

Serving alongside campaign leadership, Howard Jacobson lends his experience and guidance as honorary chair, further strengthening the campaign’s reach and community impact.

A key component of the campaign is the renovation of The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre, ensuring it remains a vibrant center for creativity and connection for years to come. Upgrades to the theatre will modernize the venue with improved seating and enhanced amenities, providing an elevated experience for arts and culture patrons.

“With improved accessibility, enhanced sound and upgraded lighting, we’re creating a space where every seat offers a truly exceptional experience,” Sluyter said. “Renovating The White Theatre ensures everyone in our community can continue to experience the joy of live performance for years to come.”

The J’s plans for a new indoor aquatic center will further enrich recreation and wellness opportunities for members. For more than 30 years, the 25-yard pool has been a cornerstone of the community. While there will be minor improvements to this existing lap swimming pool, the emphasis will be on the new facility with a diverse set of features meant to attract and entertain participants of all ages. The main features include a lazy river, a zero-depth pool for accessibility, a vortex style jacuzzi and slides of varying heights. The highlight of the expansion is a 3-story slide that extends outside of the building.

These new bodies of water expand the functionality of The J’s aquatics center and provide spaces for swimming, therapy, play and relaxation. The newer areas will provide comfort and safety for all swimmers in warmer, welcoming water. Family changing rooms, pool deck lockers, and birthday party spaces will further improve the overall experience.

In the past five years, The J has seen remarkable growth, with membership increasing by 48% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This summer alone, more than 30,000 individual check-ins occurred at the pool entrance, and ticket sales at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre have doubled since the 2018–2019 season. This momentum reflects the importance of continued investment to meet the needs of a growing and engaged community.

 The J will host a series of town hall–style events this winter, offering community members the opportunity to learn more and share feedback on plans for the new aquatic center and theatre renovations. Informational materials will be available throughout The J in the coming weeks, and updated project statistics will be shared as they become available. Members are encouraged to visit GrowingOurJ.org regularly for the latest updates.

Bailey Nakelsky, Chief Philanthropy Officer of The J, encourages community members to reach out to her for more information about being a part of this meaningful project.

“Supporting a capital campaign provides donors with the opportunity to touch and feel the impact of their gift,” Nakelsky said. “These projects will strengthen our community by creating spaces that inspire connection, growth, and belonging.”

For additional information or to learn how you can support this initiative, please contact:

• Bailey Nakelsky, Chief Philanthropy Officer, at 913-981-8896 or [email protected]
• Cindy Bodker, Director of Philanthropy, at 913-981-8807 or [email protected]