The Cohen Family
40 Faces of the J
For more than 30 years, the JCC has been at the heart of the Cohen family's life.
What began with swim lessons and family activities grew into a lifelong community that has supported each member of the family through every stage of life. From raising daughters Frannie and Natalie at the J to finding friendship and fitness through JFORCE, the JCC has been a constant source of connection, belonging, and support.
Both daughters grew up immersed in JCC life. Natalie participated in programs throughout her childhood, taught classes, and has been part of JForce since high school. Now a resident physician at Duke, she still makes time to return to JFORCE whenever she's home. Frannie explored everything from swimming lessons and summer camps to theater, pottery, and fitness programs. Today, she works in the fitness center, continuing a relationship with the J that began before she could walk.
Frannie's story is especially meaningful to the family. Born in Charlotte with a rare Jewish genetic disorder affecting only a small number of people worldwide, she faced unique challenges from the very beginning. But she never faced them alone.
"From day one, the Jewish community enveloped Frannie with love and support," her family shares.
At the JCC, Frannie found more than activities and programs—she found a place where she was welcomed, included, and celebrated for exactly who she is. Whether splashing in the baby pool, attending Camp Katan and Camp Mindy, spending summers by the pool, participating in theater productions, or working out in the fitness center, the J has always been a place where she felt she belonged.
Today, Frannie continues to be embraced by her JCC community as both an employee and a member.
For Jeff and Marsha mornings begin at 6:15 a.m. with their JFORCE family, where fitness and friendship go hand in hand. Through celebrations, challenges, milestones, and everyday moments, the JCC has remained their family's gathering place.
"The J has embraced all four of us and met our individual needs through the years," they say. "It's more than a place we go—it's our home away from home, where we celebrate the good times, find support during the difficult ones, and remain deeply connected to our Jewish community."
