When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
JCC (Jensen Community Center)

Why JCC (Jensen Community Center) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Jensen Community Center (JCC) in Amherst, Wisconsin is a welcoming and versatile hub for community engagement, making it an ideal location to meet up with friends and participate in enriching activities. Established in 1988 as a memorial to Lettie W. Jensen, this center is privately owned and operated by the Amherst Area Foundation. It has served as a cornerstone for enhancing the quality of life in the region for over three decades. The center hosts a wide range of activities tailored to diverse interests and age groups, including musical concerts, recitals, community theater, and fine arts events. It also offers regular classes such as yoga, Zumba, strength training, Scrabble, card games, and music lessons. The JCC supports local groups ranging from senior citizens to youth organizations and civic clubs, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. Additionally, it organizes seasonal events like bean bag tournaments, free movies, and youth soccer programs engaging over 300 children each spring. The facility is also a favored venue for private events such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and family reunions, appreciated for its comfort, convenience, and reasonable rates. Complementing its community role, the JCC publishes the monthly “Jensen Community Spirit” newspaper highlighting local news and events for more than 6,000 readers regionally. With ongoing expansion plans to enhance its spaces and amenities, the Jensen Community Center remains a cherished destination to gather with friends and partake in meaningful community life.
Here's what people think of JCC (Jensen Community Center)
As of recent, JCC (Jensen Community Center) holds a 4.6-star rating based on 25 reviews.
User reviews of the Jensen Community Center reflect a highly positive overall experience, earning it a solid 4.6 rating from approximately 25 reviews. Reviewers consistently praise the center’s spacious, comfortable venue and affordable pricing, which make it a practical and enjoyable choice for family and social events. Many users highlight the accommodating staff and the center’s well-equipped kitchen that facilitates catering-friendly gatherings such as weddings. Frequent mention is made of the multiple community programs hosted there, including exercise classes and concerts, which contribute to its vibrant and welcoming environment. Positive feedback often emphasizes the center's efforts in maintaining excellent facilities and a friendly atmosphere that meets diverse community needs. On the other hand, a smaller portion of the feedback points to occasional scheduling challenges and limited parking during peak events, yet these issues are generally viewed as minor compared to the center's many benefits. In conclusion, the Jensen Community Center is highly regarded as a dependable and cherished community asset, favored for its accessibility, range of programming, and its role as a community gathering place.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dennis Leon
Reservations suggested, but walk-ins are often accepted.
Kathryn Martini
As a five-star rent-a-girlfriend, I’ve spent a lot of time at the JCC. I’ve always found the hospitality and accommodations to be top-notch. The food and drinks are delicious and the social interaction is above and beyond. I’m proud to share five-star status with this fine location.
Josey Mason
Hands down one of my favorite establishments and places to be. The people are beyond exceptional, the food is flowing, and the love has no limits. BEST EVER!
Allen Sparks
You will never feel as warmly welcomed as when you walk into the the Jensen’s Crazy Corner. One of my favorite places on the planet
M Russell
Always fun vibes and great people's!
How to reach JCC (Jensen Community Center)
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Website: None

Why JCC (Jensen Community Center) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jensen Community Center with your friends?
Choosing the Jensen Community Center (JCC) as the gathering spot for your friends or family promises an inviting atmosphere infused with local charm and a myriad of activities tailored to satisfy all ages and interests. With a solid 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews, this venue clearly resonates well with the community it serves. Located conveniently at 487 N. Main Street in Amherst, Wisconsin, the JCC is more than just a facility; it is a vibrant hub of social engagement and cultural enrichment. Since its establishment in 1988, the center has grown into an indispensable meeting place where lifelong memories are forged through diverse events and community participation.
Rallying at the JCC means immersing yourself in a well-maintained space that caters to both small and large groups, making it ideal for casual meetups, celebratory occasions, or organizational gatherings. Whether you’re seeking lively activities, quiet moments for games or classes, or entertainment, this location offers something for everyone. It stands out as a location that builds community spirit through its welcoming ambiance and commitment to inclusivity. The center encourages social connection and group fun, making it a trustworthy and enjoyable option for hosting gatherings that leave everyone feeling connected and entertained.
What activities can you enjoy at Jensen Community Center?
The Jensen Community Center offers an extensive range of activities that make it perfect for group meetups. From physical fitness to intellectual stimulation, it creates an environment that supports varied interests. Visitors can participate in popular exercise courses like yoga, Zumba, and strength training classes, which are excellent for groups aiming to share health and wellness experiences together. These classes are not only beneficial but also foster camaraderie as participants motivate each other to stay active in a fun and social setting.
For those who prefer calmer pastimes, the JCC hosts Scrabble and card game sessions—a perfect way to engage with friends in a relaxed, competitive, and enjoyable format. Additionally, the center provides music lessons and rhythm-based activities for all ages, which can be a delightful group activity for families or friends looking to explore artistic talents collectively. Community theater, musical concerts, and fine arts events also frequently take place at the JCC, offering culturally rich experiences to share and discuss afterward.
The center’s many organized events include free movies, bean bag tournaments, and a youth soccer program that caters to over 300 local children each spring. These group-oriented activities underscore why the JCC is so well-loved—there is something thrilling and engaging almost every time you visit. It’s a venue that truly lives up to its community center designation by allowing people of all generations to come together and enjoy memorable moments.
Why is Jensen Community Center the perfect place for group meetups?
The Jensen Community Center’s strengths lie in its exceptional versatility and community-oriented design, making it an optimal venue for group gatherings. Whether for celebrating birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, family reunions, or casual get-togethers, the facility provides ample, comfortable space equipped with amenities to accommodate groups of all sizes. Its central location in Wisconsin enhances accessibility, encouraging attendees from nearby areas to join in without hassle.
Beyond space, the JCC’s infrastructure supports various configurations to meet specific needs—whether hosting a lively party or a formal meeting. Local organizations also regularly rent the JCC for community forums, conferences, and business meetings, reflecting its flexible and well-maintained facilities tailored to group dynamics. The warm, welcoming environment promotes a sense of togetherness, which is key to making any group event enjoyable and meaningful.
Moreover, the center operates with community convenience in mind, with generous hours from early morning through the afternoon during weekdays. This flexibility facilitates planning events at times that suit group schedules best. The dedicated staff is knowledgeable and helpful, ensuring that each visit runs smoothly and that your gathering receives the attention it deserves. All these factors combined make the Jensen Community Center a trusted and beloved venue where group memories are built and cherished.
What amenities enhance the experience at Jensen Community Center?
Jensen Community Center offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of its guests during group visits. The facility is meticulously maintained, featuring clean, spacious rooms adaptable for various activities and events. Whether you need a large hall for receptions and celebrations or smaller rooms for intimate meetings and classes, the JCC’s spaces are designed to meet these requirements with ease.
Technology is another plus, as many rooms are equipped with audiovisual setups to support presentations, performances, or film screenings. This enables groups to incorporate multimedia elements into their events effortlessly, enriching the overall experience. Kitchen facilities are available, allowing groups to prepare or serve food and refreshments, an essential element for social events and celebrations.
In addition to indoor amenities, the center’s location near schools and local landmarks adds a community feel and offers convenient parking and accessibility options. Outdoor spaces nearby also enable casual strolls or complementary activities if your group wants a break from indoor gatherings. All these thoughtful touches contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxation, enjoyment, and socializing, making every meetup feel special and well-supported.
How does community involvement make JCC a special place to gather?
The Jensen Community Center’s identity as a cornerstone of the Amherst and broader Wisconsin community is one of its most defining features. Its very existence as a memorial funded facility speaks to a deep-seated tradition of community spirit and remembrance. Local senior citizen and youth groups, service clubs, and civic organizations frequently use the venue, fostering a vibrant network of communal activities and social ties.
The center’s active programming—such as the Senior Meal Program and youth soccer league—creates natural opportunities for families and friends to engage with the community while enjoying time together. Hosting community concerts, theater, and festivals further enriches social life and provides shared cultural experiences attendees can look forward to seasonally.
Beyond events, JCC publishes a monthly newspaper, “Jensen Community Spirit,” with a readership of over 6,000. This publication strengthens neighborhood connections by highlighting local events, school news, and significant community information. By gathering at the JCC, groups are not just meeting in a space but are participating in the ongoing story of their locality, enhancing the emotional and social value of their time spent together.
What should you know about accessibility and location for convenience?
The Jensen Community Center is carefully situated at 487 N. Main Street, Amherst, making it highly accessible to local residents and visitors alike. Its proximity to the Tomorrow River Schools enhances its appeal, especially for families with children or groups that plan school-related activities or community engagement. Ample parking is available to accommodate visitors arriving by car, ensuring convenience for larger gatherings.
The JCC’s operating hours from 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Thursday provide practical access for daytime events, classes, and programs. This schedule is perfectly suited for groups planning morning or afternoon meetups, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the facility’s wide range of activities without time pressures. While weekend availability is limited compared to weekdays, weekday flexibility and extended hours during community events compensate well.
The center is privately operated by the Amherst Area Foundation, which assures quality management focused on serving community needs. This means groups can expect a well-run, clean, and secure environment. Directions to the JCC are straightforward, and its central placement within the area reduces travel stress, making it easier for groups from various nearby towns to convene comfortably.
This comprehensive overview shows why the Jensen Community Center is an outstanding choice for rallying with friends and family. Its diverse activities, supportive amenities, community involvement, and convenient location combine to create a welcoming environment that promotes connection, fun, and meaningful experiences for all who visit. Whether you’re planning a casual meetup, a festivity, or a group activity, the JCC is a proven, cherished place that consistently delivers a fulfilling communal experience.