Jewish Traditions and Values
Julius Rosenwald, Education and Jewish American Philanthropy
By Michaela Wilson, Marketing Manager, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore During Jewish American Heritage Month, I’ve been reflecting on my family history, particularly my great-grandfather’s cousin, Julius Rosenwald. Rosenwald is best known for his partnership with Booker T. Washington to help fund what became known as Rosenwald Schools, an effort that shaped access to […]
Passover Through My Sephardic and Mizrahi Lens
By Carmen Thomas, Timonium Parent Community Connector Growing up in an Indian and Moroccan Jewish household, I didn’t always realize how different our traditions were from those in other American Jewish homes. It wasn’t until I got older that I began to see how unique—and deeply meaningful—our customs really were. Passover, in particular, always highlighted […]
Reset and Refresh Reflection
For Tali and George, joining Reset & Refresh opened their minds to what Judaism can be and how it can weave its way through all aspects of life and family, even when not everyone in that family identifies as Jewish. Their experience is a powerful reminder that there is no single right way to build […]
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 […]