This August, Toronto is hosting the JCC Maccabi Games® & Access (The Games) for the first time in nearly four decades. More than 2,000 Jewish teen athletes, coaches, and delegation members from across North America, Israel, and beyond are gathering here for one of the largest Jewish teen gatherings in the world—and one of the most significant Jewish communal events our city has hosted in a generation. More than 400 athletes are proudly representing Team Toronto. 

Proudly hosted by Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre, The Games are about far more than athletic competition. While participants are competing in basketball, soccer, swimming, volleyball, and more, the lasting impact comes from the friendships they are building, the confidence they are gaining, and the shared sense of belonging they are experiencing as part of a global Jewish community. 

For thousands of young Jews, The Games have continuously served as a gateway to deeper Jewish engagement, leadership, and lifelong involvement in Jewish community. This summer, Toronto is carrying that legacy forward, helping inspire the next generation while creating meaningful connections that will last long beyond the final competition. 

As Toronto athlete Jada explains, "It's not just about winning games or earning medals. It's about bringing people together, celebrating our identity, and creating friendships that cross borders and last a lifetime." 

That spirit is at the heart of The Games. Rooted in the values of rachmanus (compassion), sportsmanship, leadership, and community, the experience is strengthening Jewish identity while creating lifelong connections. As Andrew Levy, Executive Director of the Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre, says, "It's about creating lifelong connections, fostering Jewish pride, and strengthening the fabric of our community." Board Chair David Dulberg describes this summer as a landmark moment for Toronto—one that is celebrating Jewish identity, leadership, and tikkun olam alongside athletic excellence.