People in Our Neighborhood
Meet Carol Goldstein
Tell us a little about yourself I am a retired hospice nurse who moved to Towson after my husband, David, passed away. This has enabled me to be closer to my children and grandchildren, which has been a source of incredible joy! I was also fortunate enough to join Bolton Street Synagogue which afforded me […]
Meet Leora Match
Finding Connection Through Community My name is Leora Match, and I am a proud Baltimore transplant, nature-lover, musician, PJ Library parent, and Jewish professional. Becoming a mom has me reflecting deeply on community, ritual, and the traditions we choose to carry forward. As the Director of Adamah Adventure Camp at Pearlstone, I love helping children connect […]
Meet our Dad Connectors
Finding community as a parent can be challenging, especially when life is busy. Our Dad Connectors are helping create spaces where Jewish fathers can build friendships, share experiences, and strengthen connections for themselves and their families. Meet three dads who are bringing people together and helping build a more connected Jewish community in Baltimore. Meet […]
Meet Hayley Cushing
Tell us a little about yourself. Hi! I’m originally from Shrewsbury, New Jersey, a very small town in Monmouth County. I attended the University of Maryland, College Park, and later completed my MBA at Loyola University Maryland. My husband Scott and I currently live in Timonium with our rescue pittie, Bubba, who keeps us entertained. […]
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 […]
Meet Shelly Lohmann
Finding your way after loss can feel isolating, but being part of a Community for Widows and Widowers can make it feel a little less lonely. After navigating profound loss in her own family, Shelly Lohmann is creating a warm, welcoming space where people in their 60s and 70s can connect, share, and build new […]
Meet Lisa Greenberg
For Lisa Greenberg, kindness isn’t just something she believes in—it’s something she lives every day. A lifelong Baltimorean, educator, author and dedicated volunteer, Lisa brings heart, intention and deep care into everything she does. What began as a single connection through Dignity Grows has grown into a meaningful way for her to create space for […]
Meet the Birenbaum Family: PJ Library’s Mishpacha of the Month!
The Birenbaum family — Michele and Dan, along with their daughters Emily (7) and Isabelle (5) — fill their Reisterstown home with warmth, tradition, and an unmistakable love for Judaism, Israel, and Jewish learning. Their home is lively not only with two young daughters, but also with three beloved dogs: Honey, Goldie, and Maple. Michele grew […]
Meet Sammi Darmon
Get to know Sammi Darmon, one of our Young Adult VolunTeam leaders! Originally from Michigan, she now works as a physician’s assistant at Baltimore’s Good Samaritan Hospital. Through The Network and the Knit & Nosh VolunTeam, Sammi has found meaningful friendships and helps create a welcoming space for young adults. How has The Network and […]
Meet Marina, our Russian Speaking Grandparent Connector
Meet Marina Vugaftman (second from the left), our Russian-Speaking Grandparents Connector, whose energy, warmth and love of bringing people together make our community feel a little smaller and a lot more connected. From trivia nights to holiday concerts, Marina creates spaces where people feel welcomed, valued and inspired to show up as their full selves. […]