The Rosen Family
40 Faces of the J
Our family’s story at the Levine JCC began in 2004, when our parents became members shortly after moving to Charlotte and started bringing us to the pool. Before long, all four of us sisters were attending preschool at CJP, and the J became a place where our entire family felt at home.
As we grew up, the J grew with us. We played soccer, competed in the JCC Kids Triathlon and on the JAWS swim team, spent countless summers at Camp Mindy, participated in BBYO and, eventually, all became lifeguards at the pool.
Through every stage, the J has been a constant in our lives. We’ve made lifelong friendships, shared countless memories and been surrounded by people who have helped shape us into who we are today.
Now, some of our favorite moments come from watching the next generation grow up here.
As lifeguards, we get to see Camp Mindy campers and other kids return to the pool year after year. We watch them grow into their personalities, build friendships and create the same kind of community we experienced when we were their age. Seeing their familiar faces each summer reminds us of what made the J so special to us growing up—and what we now have the opportunity to provide for them.
That sense of community is also what continues to bring us back. Even while attending college outside of Charlotte, we’ve never thought twice about returning to lifeguard each summer. We know we’re coming back to coworkers who support, encourage and uplift one another and to a place where we’ll always be welcomed with open arms.
For us, the Levine JCC has truly become a second home. It has supported us physically, mentally and emotionally, and there has always been a listening ear, a calming presence or a warm hug when we’ve needed one.
Nearly our entire lives have been intertwined with this community. We grew up here, and now we get to watch others do the same. We’re beyond grateful to be part of a place that has grown alongside us through every chapter of our lives—and we can’t wait to see where it takes us next.
