The Becker's Story

Cathy and Paul Becker are social people by nature – Cathy, a grade school teacher, and Paul, a psychologist. So when faced with retirement, the couple turned to The J for exercise and a way to stay social and embedded in the community.

“I could walk around the neighborhood, but it’s not the same,” Paul said. “I’m always bumping into someone from my past at The J.”

Many may know Cathy as the voice of Camp Wise. She started working in the office during her summer breaks in 1994 and then was full-time from 2001 to 2008 after she retired from teaching.

“I still feel connected here as a former employee. I really enjoyed having so many ‘phone friends,’” Cathy reminisces as she tells stories of meeting these individuals now in person.

The couple, who are both 76 years old, come to work out four to five days a week to walk, swim and take classes including Tai Chi and aerobics. It has become a part of their daily routine. Cathy says that without her membership, she wouldn’t feel as tied to the community and might not attend the Jewish cultural arts programs that The J offers.

One of the best parts of being here? Multi-generations in the same building. Paul shares that “there’s always an army of early childhood kids. It’s delightful and puts a smile on my face. They’re so full of life.”

In addition to always finding old friends to talk with, Cathy says that for some, The J is a lifeline. “It keeps them connected to friends and the community.” She enjoys seeing seniors sitting on the benches inside The J and out while talking with friends.