The Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island (JCCGCI) was proud to partner with the Brooklyn Cyclones for a memorable Jewish Celebration Day at Maimonides Park, bringing together Holocaust survivors, families, community members, and baseball fans for an afternoon of recognition, unity, and celebration.

As part of the special event, 18 Holocaust survivors served by JCCGCI were honored on the field with a ceremonial first pitch before the Brooklyn Cyclones took on the Frederick Keys. The moving tribute recognized the survivors’ extraordinary resilience, strength, and enduring contributions to the community.

The event provided a unique opportunity to celebrate Jewish heritage while honoring individuals whose lives stand as powerful testaments to perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Surrounded by their families, supporters, and fellow community members, the survivors were recognized before thousands of fans at Maimonides Park in a moment that many attendees will never forget.

Adding to the celebration, the survivors received a New York State Assembly Citation presented by Assemblymember Michael Novakhov in recognition of their courage, legacy, and lasting impact. The afternoon also featured a special pre-game performance by Jewish rapper and entertainer Kosha Dillz, helping create a festive atmosphere that celebrated both Jewish culture and community pride.

JCCGCI is honored to serve one of the largest Holocaust Survivor communities in the world, providing critical services and support to more than 4,000 survivors annually. Programs include homecare, transportation, case management, friendly visiting, home-delivered meals, socialization programs, benefits assistance, and a wide range of additional services designed to help survivors age with dignity and remain connected to their communities.

“Our survivors are the living heart of our community,” said Jake Rosenblum, Director of Development at JCCGCI. “Events like this provide an opportunity not only to celebrate their remarkable resilience, but also to ensure that their stories, experiences, and contributions continue to be recognized and honored.”

JCCGCI extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Brooklyn Cyclones for their partnership and commitment to recognizing Holocaust survivors in such a meaningful way. By providing this platform for celebration and recognition, the organization helped create lasting memories for survivors and their families while educating and inspiring the broader community.

As the survivors stood proudly on the field and threw out the ceremonial first pitches, they reminded everyone in attendance of the power of resilience, the importance of remembrance, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It was an afternoon that celebrated not only Jewish heritage, but also the extraordinary individuals whose lives continue to inspire us all.

👉 Want to get involved with JCCGCI? Visit https://www.jccgci.org/programs/partner-with-us/