Jewish Traditions and Values
December Holiday Stress? Try Challah Days
By Lisa Akchin, Multigenerational, Multifaith Family Connector for The Network. The low point in my experience as the Jewish grandmother of Catholic grandchildren was a latke dinner where my son called me out for “Marketing Hanukkah.” It can be hard to show up as a Jewish grandparent when our children and their partners choose different […]
Kwanzaa Through a Black Jewish Lens
Written by Rabbi Tzadik Womack, an active participant in Jewish Connection Network events, PJ Library subscriber and prominent advocate for inclusion within Jewish spaces. Rabbi Womack lives in Baltimore, Maryland, where he attends Ner Tamid Greenspring Valley Synagogue. He received rabbinic ordination and is also a practicing attorney. What is Kwanzaa? Why is it meaningful? […]
A Journey of Belonging
By Lindsay Feldman, Shalom Social Club Connector (for 20s-40s in Baltimore City). “Tell me about your Jewish journey,” was how the conversation auspiciously began. I was sitting on the floor at Baltimore Polytechnic Academy in the middle of a teacher training day as I spoke with Erica Bloom, Senior Director of the Jewish Connection Network, […]
Increased Need in Our Community — Here’s How You Can Help
You’ve probably seen the headlines or heard the conversations—more individuals and families in our community are facing food insecurity right now. Many have asked how to help, so we put together a few simple ways you can show up and make a real impact. Casseroles (Ongoing) When we decided to take a break from our […]
Finding Everyday Meaning with Jewish Summer Blessings
Summer invites us to step outside into nature, into community, into moments that surprise and delight. Maybe you’re standing in awe at the ocean, heading out on a road trip, or simply catching your breath under a shady tree. No matter your choice, Judaism offers a beautiful way to mark those moments with blessings. Jewish […]
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Purim Experience
Purim is a fun holiday filled with noise, costumes, and celebration, but for individuals with sensory sensitivities, it can be overwhelming. Whether planning a large community event or a small family gathering, making Purim more inclusive ensures that everyone can participate comfortably. Here are some ways to create a sensory-friendly Purim experience: Tips for Large […]
Inclusion Beyond February: Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion All Year
February might be the shortest month, but its impact can resonate far beyond 28 days. Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM) is a powerful reminder to build communities where everyone—regardless of ability—feels like they truly belong. Yet, inclusion isn’t a one-month mitzvah. It’s a lifelong commitment, woven into the very fabric of Jewish […]
Small Way to “Do Jewish” in 2025
By: Lauren Sibel, The Associated’s Young Leadership Council Member & Network Board Observer Looking for ways to deepen your connection to Jewish traditions and community in the new year? Whether you’re just starting to explore or looking to add something new to your routine, we’ve got you covered Here are 10 easy and inspiring ideas […]
The Joy of Gathering with Jewish Friends and Their Families
Spending time with friends is always special, but there’s something extra meaningful about getting together with Jewish friends and their families. Whether it’s sharing delicious meals, celebrating traditions, or watching kids laugh and play, these moments create memories that stick with us forever. Ready to make your gatherings even more fun and meaningful? Here are […]
Baked Ziti and Big Hearts: A Casserole Challenge Tradition
Every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving (Giving Tuesday), volunteers in the Baltimore area donate hundreds of homemade casseroles to our annual Casserole Challenge, which helps provide much needed meals to individuals and families in need. But some volunteers truly go above and beyond. For the last several years, Stacy Harvey, alongside co-host Amy Goldberg, […]