History
The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center was founded in 1982 by survivors who were actively involved in a community-wide project on prejudice and human rights. The museum itself, built on the campus of the Jewish Community Center (just north of Orlando) was completed in 1986. In addition to a comprehensive exhibit which describes life of Jews in Europe before, during and after the war, the Center has permanent exhibits on local survivors and Holocaust-era insurance, temporary exhibits and films throughout the year, and a 6,000 volume library. Each November, the Center holds a commemoration of Kristallnacht, remembering the night in 1938 that many scholars identify as the first overt act of the war. In April, a community Yom HaShaoh program is presented. This event, open to the public, includes lighting of candles in memory of the 6 million Jews killed by the Nazis, and presentations of awards to winners of the Student Creative Arts Contest.
Specialties
One of the oldest Holocaust museums in the nation, founded in 1982. The Center consists of a permanent exhibit hall, a 6,000 volume library, traveling exhibits, a film series, and community programs. Family-friendly (no disturbing/graphic images). No admission charged, free parking.