When Lois Koteen reflects on why she opened a fund to support the Mandell JCC, wonderful memories come rushing back. She recalls the Nursery School where her children made lifetime friends. She remembers all the Sundays her husband, Chuck (z”l), took the kids to swim so she could catch a nap. And then there’s Flopsy the rabbit, whose first home was at the Nursery School until the JCC wanted to find a “family” willing to provide a less chaotic place for the bunny to live. The Koteens gave “him” a home for 10+ years.

The JCC was where Lois learned the “joys and oys” of working out, an activity she continues to this day. Add in the countless movies viewed during film festivals and other special events attended in the theater, plus bringing her grandchildren to the playscape, and it all adds up to a home away from home.

“The JCC is a welcoming place that embraces people of all ages, races, and religions,” said Lois. “It offers a true sense of belonging for so many people.”

For Lois and children Sarah and Jake, opening a family fund at the Foundation to benefit the JCC was a meaningful way to live their values.

“I feel at home every time I walk in the door — the staff all knows your name and greets you with a smile; troubles seem to fade into the distance,” Lois said. “For me, opening this fund was a natural.”

In addition to her philanthropic work, Lois is an active volunteer and passionate advocate in the Jewish community. She worked with the Commission on Jewish Education & Leadership’s “La’atid: Synagogues for the Future” program, served as President of Beth El Temple and as a member of Beth El’s Endowment Board, and currently chairs the Federation’s Jewish Leadership Academy.