Mid Island Y JCC renamed Manes JCC with historic gift

PLAINVIEW, N.Y., Sept. 3, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Mid Island Y JCC, a leading Jewish community center on Long Island, has undergone a significant transformation with the announcement of a historic naming gift from longtime member Dr. Harvey Manes and the Manes Peace Prize Foundation. Effective immediately, the agency will be renamed Manes JCC, marking a new chapter in its 70-year history.

At a celebratory event held Wednesday evening at the agency's Plainview location, Mid Island Y JCC CEO Rick Lewis, board leadership, and Dr. Manes unveiled the new name and highlighted the transformative impact of the donation. "Philanthropy is the cornerstone of what we do at Mid Island Y JCC," said Lewis. "For 70 years, our growth and success have been driven by the commitment and investment of community members. This gift from Dr. Harvey Manes and the Manes Peace Prize Foundation is a testament to that unwavering support."

Dr. Manes, an orthopedic surgeon, attorney, author, and philanthropist, shared his personal connection to the agency, which began in an exercise class. "This organization has been instrumental in shaping the community, and I am proud to be part of its next chapter," he said. "The Manes Peace Prize Foundation and I hope this gift will help the agency continue its valuable work."

The significant donation will fund critical capital improvements and long-term investments in the agency's facilities and programs. Immediate projects include resealing and restriping the parking lot, installing a new floor in the group fitness studio, and replacing fitness center equipment from the 2012 renovation. "These three projects are just the beginning," said Vicki Diamond, President of the Manes JCC Board of Directors. "We will determine how the remainder of this extraordinary gift will be utilized in the coming weeks and months."

While the gift is seen as transformative, agency leaders emphasize that it is not a change to the organization's mission. Manes JCC will continue to serve individuals and families of every age, background, and faith. Programs and services include early childhood education and daycare, camp, school-age enrichment, fitness and aquatics, adult and senior services, memory care, special needs programming, and community-wide events.

"Dr. Harvey Manes and the Manes Peace Prize Foundation's generosity is a reflection of the community's commitment to our organization," said Diamond. "This gift is not a finish line but fuel for a community that has always shown up for itself and one that we are counting on to continue showing up."

Formerly known as Mid Island Y JCC, Manes JCC remains a nonprofit Jewish Community Center whose programs and services reach individuals and families throughout Long Island. Established in 1952, the agency has been a cornerstone of the community, providing a wide range of services for over seven decades.