People in Our Neighborhood
Meet Alyson Friedman
Alyson Friedman has spent more than two decades building connections and uplifting others through her volunteer leadership. From serving as Board President of CHANA to co-founding the Jewish Women’s Giving Foundation, she has dedicated her time and heart to causes that strengthen our community. Now, as a member of the newly formed Jewish Connection Board, […]
Three Years of Heart: Honoring Maian’s Shlichut Journey
Maian Rahvalschi, Baltimore’s first senior community Shlicha/emissary through the support of The Associated and in partnership with the Jewish Agency for Israel, will be returning to Israel in August after her 3-year service. Maian’s work has impacted so many people’s lives during such a difficult time in Jewish history. As an Israeli living in America […]
Meet Mendel Davis
Mendel Davis, our newest Single Parent Connector, is a trailblazer with a deep-rooted love for Jewish community, a powerhouse career in finance, and a passion for creating spaces of connection and support. A proud Baltimore native with Egyptian and African American heritage, Mendel brings his lived experience, soulful leadership, and deep empathy to his new […]
Meet Justin Fair
Justin Fair is a JPride Baltimore board member who’s passionate about building a more inclusive, vibrant Jewish community. In this conversation, they reflect on their path to leadership, what fuels their commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility, and how showing up—boldly and with intention—can create ripples of belonging for youth, families, and beyond. Talk a bit about […]
Meet Marissa Kahn
When Marissa Kahn moved to Baltimore, she set out to build community through connection, service, and shared Jewish values. As a social worker and mom of three, she founded Baltimore Mitzvah Moms to bring Jewish mothers together and give back in meaningful ways. In this interview, Marissa shares what inspired the group and how it’s […]
Meet Lori O’Donnell
Lori O’Donnell is a community-minded powerhouse with a passion for connection, giving back, and helping others thrive. Whether she’s organizing winter care packages for Mitzvah Month, encouraging older adults to try new programs at the Myerberg Center at the J, or discovering her love for audiobooks during long runs, Lori brings warmth, dedication, and an […]
Creating a Meaningful Passover One Room at a Time
Passover is a time for storytelling, connection, and creativity, and Erica Allen has mastered the art of bringing it all to life. As a Jewish educator and mom of two young children, Erica combines her professional expertise and personal passion to create an engaging, interactive seder experience. From reenacting the Exodus to hosting afikomen hunts, […]
Meet Phyllis Shocket
From growing up in Baltimore to a career in law librarianship and nonprofit leadership, Phyllis Shocket has always been driven by connection and service. Now active in The Network’s knitting initiative and community programs, she continues to bring people together for meaningful impact. Here, she shares her journey, the power of community, and the joy […]
Navigating Menopause Together: A Conversation with Liz Minkin-Friedman
Menopause is a natural transition, yet it remains one of the most overlooked and misunderstood stages of a woman’s life. Despite affecting nearly half the population, many women feel unheard by their doctors and unsupported by society. One woman, however, is working to change that. We spoke with Liz Minkin-Friedman, founder of Menopause Matters, a […]
Meet Leia Neft
Meet Leia Neft, a dedicated speech-language pathologist, mother of two, and active member of The Network community. Originally from Orlando, she has called Baltimore home since 2008, building connections and supporting families along the way. Passionate about helping children find their voice, she specializes in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), giving nonverbal kids the tools […]