About Us

History • Mission • Meet the Team

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History

In 2009 six Jewish Lakewood Ranch residents met to discuss ways to address the interests of its growing Jewish population. The community had received little direct attention from Jewish institutions in Sarasota-Manatee because it was regarded as an outpost without much of a Jewish presence. In 2010, the group formed a club under the auspices of LWR Town Hall and held the first Jewish Club event there. Over 100 people attended.

Since that auspicious beginning, the number of Jewish families in Lakewood Ranch has grown tremendously. According to the 2019 population study commissioned by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and conducted by Brandeis University, the Jewish population of Lakewood Ranch has nearly tripled since 2009

to approximately 3200 people. 

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In view of such explosive growth, The Jewish Club has expanded its programming and,in keeping with its mission, continues to offer social, cultural and educational opportunities that enhance the quality of Jewish life.

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Mission

 The Lakewood Ranch Jewish Club is committed to enhancing Jewish life in Lakewood Ranch by providing a variety of social, cultural and educational events. The club offers programs on timely topics, entertainment, social gatherings and visits to local attractions. Just as important as the content of any program is the opportunity the Club provides to meet newcomers and enjoy the camaraderie of old friends.

As a registered social club with the Lakewood Ranch Community Activities Corporation, our mandate is to make our activities available to residents of Lakewood Ranch (zip codes: 34202, 34211, 34212 and 34240) and their guests. 

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MEET THE TEAM 

Executive Committee

Jim Payton, President

Bruce Gibbs, Treasurer

Steering Committee

​Rebecca Crane

Geri Drexler, Membership

Lenny Drexler, Founder

Lynn Dreifuss, Mail Chimp

Kathy Gurvey, Communications

Terry Hayden

Hilary Shaefitz

Vanessa Seifert, Website

Debbie Yonker

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