We are thrilled to share a landmark announcement: three remarkable philanthropic contributions are shaping the future of Jewish life in Edmonton.

Thanks to extraordinary generosity and vision, we are proud to confirm $3 million in lead capital and endowment gifts to establish the new Jewish community centre as a dynamic hub for connection, culture, and engagement for generations to come. These commitments reflect a profound dedication to continuity and belonging—values that are more vital than ever.

“These exceptional donors are setting a powerful example by investing in our community’s future. Arliss Miller played a pivotal role as the first donor to launch a JCC endowment fund, ensuring long-term sustainability and inspiring others to contribute as well. Alissia and Michael Oshry and the Kipnes Family are providing additional capital funding for essential renovations to transform the building into a vibrant centre. Their generosity guarantees that our community will have a welcoming, secular Jewish space to foster relationships and participation,” says Stacey Leavitt-Wright, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton and the JCC.

We are proud to announce the official name of our new Jewish community centre: the Oshry | Kipnes Jewish Community Centre.

This facility will serve as a central destination for learning, celebration, and Jewish connection. The Oshry | Kipnes JCC will be a nurturing and sustaining environment for teens, families, and young children to strengthen and build Jewish identity.

Thank you to our lead donors:

Arliss Miller

“I hope the new JCC will become a gathering place for the Jewish community. I’m happy to have been able to be a part of helping it both now and in the future with the operating endowment. I’m also glad that the building is in a central location and visible to the people of Edmonton, as we should be proud of our presence and our contribution to the city.”

Alissia and Michael Oshry

“We were both fortunate to grow up with a JCC in our respective cities. In fact, our first work experience was there. Alissia was a gymnastics coach, and Michael worked at the front desk. Giving back to our community is more important to us than ever. We all need a place where we can come together, feel safe, and ensure that future generations have the same sense of belonging and connection that we do.”

The Kipnes Family

“Our family has always believed that a vibrant community needs a central hub, and we are proud to ensure that this legacy endures for the next 40 years and beyond. When we first helped establish Edmonton’s Jewish Community Centre over 40 years ago, it was about creating a home—a place where Jewish life could thrive for generations. Today, investing in the new JCC is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about continuity, identity, and belonging.”

Construction is underway at the facility, located at 14205 - 109 Avenue, and it is expected to open by the end of 2026.

We are continuing to grow the endowment to support the long-term sustainability of the JCC and are offering naming opportunities at various giving levels. If you are interested in supporting this project and learning more about the available naming opportunities, please contact Becky Saegert at bsaegert@edjfed.org.

We gratefully acknowledge the support this project has received from the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada.