The Vital Role of Arts and Culture in Fostering Community Connections

Stephanie Owitz, Vice President of Arts, Culture & Learning at the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC Sandler Center in Boca Raton, sheds light on the pivotal role that arts and cultural programming play in knitting the fabric of community tighter and uplifting individual spirits. With a quarter-century of dedication to the Levis JCC, Owitz underscores the significance of cultural institutions as venues for collective experiences and conversations, particularly during periods marked by isolation and division.

The Sandler Center's initiatives, ranging from film screenings to art lectures, are meticulously crafted to do more than entertain; they aim to cultivate a profound sense of belonging among attendees. These programs act as conduits for impactful exchanges, effectively narrowing the divide across different ages and cultural backgrounds. Owitz's expertise as a social worker enriches her perspective, seeing the arts as indispensable instruments for fostering dialogue and strengthening community ties.

Amidst obstacles like dwindling arts funding, Owitz champions the irreplaceable worth of cultural establishments in mirroring communal values and sparking creativity. She advocates for bolstering these initiatives through active engagement, vocal support, and financial contributions, ensuring they remain a beacon of connection and motivation for all.