It has been one year since the JCC Denver launched its Green Initiative and formed the JCC Green Team.

 Through the dedicated efforts of the group, the JCC continues to deepen its commitment to environmental stewardship. This special feature highlights the meaningful strides the team—and the broader organization—have made to reduce the JCC’s ecological footprint and celebrate the many accomplishments already underway.

When asked why he is passionate about serving on the team, Ryan shared:  “As an avid naturalist and former manager of an outdoor education facility, I’m deeply passionate about reducing our footprint in all sorts of ways. I’m excited to help the JCC reduce both physical and financial waste so we can reinvest in our planet and our community.”

In partnership with Adamah’s Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, the JCC Green Team has developed a comprehensive Climate Action Plan. This plan outlines clear commitments to reducing carbon emissions while establishing a sustainable, forward-looking framework that will guide environmental responsibility well into the future.

The Green Team is focused on implementing pragmatic, attainable solutions that protect the planet while aligning with the organization’s operational realities. A key early objective has been fostering a “think green” mindset across departments—printing less and increasing digital communications, reducing single-use plastics such as water bottles, and improving recycling practices for cardboard and plastic containers.

To support this work, the team met with every department director to assess current practices, brainstorm new initiatives, and identify areas where the JCC is already excelling.

Those conversations revealed something remarkable: many departments have quietly been leading impactful sustainability efforts for years.

The Maintenance Team, for example, replaced 62 paper towel dispensers that previously required four to six D batteries each with new models that require none. This simple change significantly reduces battery waste and long-term environmental impact.

The Fitness Center is actively phasing out plastic bags previously distributed for wet bathing suits, reducing unnecessary single-use plastics.

The Early Learning School (ELS) continues its longstanding commitment to environmental education through its dedicated Garden Education role. This work embodies the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world—by teaching children about sustainable living and environmental responsibility from an early age.

A shining example of this commitment is the Strear-Pluss Garden, a vibrant space filled with herbs, vegetables, perennials, and—of course—plenty of room for children to explore and play. The garden stands as a living testament to the JCC’s dedication to cultivating both plants and future generations of environmental stewards.

Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate that sustainability at the JCC is not a single project but an ongoing cultural commitment. Through thoughtful decisions—both large and small—the organization is building a more environmentally responsible community.

The Green Team hopes these efforts inspire members, families, and staff to consider how they, too, can make a positive impact. Every green action matters, and even small changes contribute to a healthier planet for all.