Meet Alyson, Purim Party Co-Chair

February 9, 2026 | People in Our Neighborhood

Alyson Friedman is our Purim Party co-chair who brings heart, creativity and a true love of community to the table. She is deeply passionate about creating spaces where people can come together, feel connected and celebrate Jewish joy. We’re excited to spotlight her and share a little more about what inspires her and why this Purim Party is so meaningful to her.

Tell us a little about you. Where are you in your life right now, and what fills your cup these days?

I am happily an empty nester who is enjoying volunteering my time and sitting on a few nonprofit Boards, studying Torah and Mussar (Jewish spiritual practice that gives concrete instructions on how to live a meaningful and ethical life) while exploring my creative side through crafting and ceramics, playing tennis and pickleball as well as canasta and Mah Jongg.

How did you first connect with The Network, and what drew you in at that moment?

I first connected with The Network as I was looking for a new volunteer opportunity that was different from other Boards on which I had previously served.  I was especially drawn to working with Addie Lewis Klein who was new to the Baltimore Federation at that time and who was full of great energy and passion for the work The Network was doing.

Why are the Network’s community connectors an important element of our Jewish community?

The Network’s community connectors are an important element of our community because they proudly represent a cross-section of the various populations/demographics of our Baltimore Jewish community.  They offer a place of belonging for people in various stages of their lives to come together in community to learn, play and grow.

What inspired you to agree to co-chair the first Network Purim Party, and what does hosting mean to you?

I was inspired to co-chair the first Network Purim Party because I love planning events and bringing people together, I was only too happy to step up and I thought a Drag Queen Bingo event would be so much fun!

Why do spaces like this Purim Party feel especially important right now?

Spaces like the Purim Party feel especially important right now with the constant rise in antisemitism.  Now more than ever, Jews need to feel empowered to come together to celebrate our customs and traditions.

What do you love about Purim?

I love the atmosphere during Purim-the costumes, the playfulness, the laughter and the joy.

What are you looking forward to most about the Purim Party?

The thing I am looking forward to most about the Purim Party is seeing so many different people from various demographics join together in celebration.  We are such a vibrant, diverse community; it is wonderful to come together to see people we know and meet new friends too!

What is your favorite Hamantaschen flavor?

My favorite Hamantashen flavor is chocolate.