(from generation to generation)
Photos shared by the Ball Family 2024
A little more from Marilyn about her family’s history at the Asheville JCC:
Marilyn moved to Asheville in 1977 just shortly before her daughter Jessica was born. Around 1981, Marilyn, who was working as a Montessori teacher at the time, began working with a few others at the JCC summer camp. She was excited to bring along young Jessica to camp.
Marilyn eventually left Camp Ruach to return to UNCA, but Jessica stayed on as a camper. As she grew up through the program, Jessica became a counselor-in-training, and eventually a camp counselor. Jessica was also involved at the pool as a lifeguard and swim instructor.
Jessica grew up and moved away, but as all good Ashevillians do, she came back. She married her husband Jason, and they welcomed their oldest daughter Lillian. At a young age, Lilly began going to the JCC summer camp and taking swim lessons. Five years later, their youngest daughter Lucy entered the JCC stage as a baby at beloved Hilde’s House. Lucy continued through pre-school at Shalom Children’s Center, attended Camp Ruach with her older sister, and continues to enjoy summer camp each year.
Lilly and Lucy are both excellent swimmers–thanks to the incredible JCC swim program. Lilly swims competitively for the AJCC swim team, and had a huge and epic experience last year in Ft. Lauderdale when Coach Wendy took her to the Maccabi Games!
In addition to cheering on her granddaughters, Marilyn is also proud to share that Jessica currently sits on the JCC board, wrapping up her final term this year.
The Ball family’s three-generation journey of building Jewish identity at the JCC over the past 50 years has enriched our community by nurturing friendships, giving through volunteer leadership, and sharing countless joyful moments.
