The 2006 JCC Maccabi Games® of Greater Phoenix are… Five days that can change the life of a Jewish 13 to 16 year old. For those five days s/he is immersed in a sports and recreation program imbued with Jewish experiences. For many of Jewish youth, sports and recreation experiences serve as a significant point of entry into the organized Jewish community. The goal of the JCC Maccabi Games® is to contribute to the maintenance and enrichment of Jewish identity in youth and to the development of democratic values and leadership through sportsmanship. The JCC Maccabi Games® are designed to be a “Jewish Experience”. All planning requires awareness about what’s “Jewish” about the Games and what we can do to enhance the experience. This includes atmosphere, food, “Hang Time” – a special drop-in lounge at the Games for special projects, many focused on Israel. A highlight is the Day of Caring and Sharing, a half-day of activities for 2,000 which focus on Tikun Olam (repairing the world). Ensuring that athletes show rachmanes to each other on and off the playing field, it all comes back to creating a Total Jewish Experience. Looking at the Games by the numbers • 5 days and nights of recreation, sports and friends • 250-300 local athletes participating in 14 sports • 1500 visiting athletes from around the U.S.A. and abroad • 650+ host families opening their homes • 500+ total coaches • 1000 local volunteers of all ages • 10,000+ people will attend the opening ceremonies at America West Arena • $7 million+ will be generated for the local economy We are looking for partners to help us spread the word throughout the community that everyone can share the spirit of the Games. Volunteers are needed now to help plan the Games and will be needed every minute of every hour that the Games are here in Greater Phoenix. Will you help us conquer the Desert? Want to Know More? For more information regarding the 2006 JCC Maccabi Games of Greater Phoenix: contact Michael LeWinter, Games Director at 480-588-6959 or at jccmaccabi@vosjcc.org.