The JLC came into being in the fall of 1994, through the efforts of a group of community-minded individuals who recognized the need for quality adult education.

It was first located on the second floor of the CMI building on Route 9, in a conference room generously provided by Dotty and Aron Jablonka. It opened with two weekly programs: a lunch-hour discussion group on Thursdays, and a Monday evening individualized program. Attendance grew, and requests came in for more classes. In response, the JLC hosted several innovative programs. 1995. In

That same month, the JLC expanded further with its first class in the Marlboro Branch of the Monmouth County Public Library. This Hebrew Reading Crash Course drew a huge crowd and became the first of many events to be held in the libraries.

Soon afterwards, a Beginners Service was established. At first, it was organized as an instructive class, but later became the foundation for our user-friendly minyan. In addition, special events became more varied, and included a Discovery Seminar, a Kashrus Seminar, an experiential Tisha B'av program, and a High Holiday retreat.

Rosh Hashana, 5757(1996) found the JLC on the front page of the Asbury Park Press. The lead article described the work of the JLC, and a picture of Rabbi Chaim Safren leading a Beginners Service class was featured in the middle of the front page.

The next chapter in the history of the JLC opened with its move to a suite at 701 Tennent Road. With larger quarters encompassing several rooms, more classes could be offered and the schedule expanded even further.

In 1998, the JLC introduced a new series. The Art of Jewish Parenting: Making Your Child Into a Mentch was Rabbi Jonathan Rietti's debut at the JLC. His entertaining style has made, him tremendously popular, and he has been back several times as part of a very successful parenting series. This series has served as a springboard

for more courses on related topics. As a result, Rabbi Veshnefsky and Rabbi Safren have presented numerous lectures on parenting, marriage and relationships. The World of the Supernatural, a beginner’s introduction to Kabbalah, was the first introductory kabbalah class to be offered. It was followed by Kabbalah: Unlocking the Mysteries and, most recently, Life and the Afterlife. In January 2001, the JLC

Subsequently, Rabbi Becher returned to the library for a three part series entitled Opening the Gates of Wisdom. Once again record crowds turned out for his ever popular series.

In the spring of 2001, work began on the JLC campus at 138 Pine Brook Road. Tremendous excitement was felt as the JLC looked forward to the completion of its new home.