What was your first job? My first job was as a staff attorney at a regional brokerage firm in New Jersey (I’m originally from New Jersey). I worked on regulatory matters, trade desk issues, as well as arbitration and litigation. But eager to be in “the” financial center, I got […]
A little more than three weeks ago, we lost a treasured friend, prolific speaker, and community advocate. Rebbetzin Dr. Aviva Weisbord A’H was all that and more to her staff at SHEMESH, a program of the Associated. Here are some thoughts and insights that they shared as they recalled their beloved Executive Director, Aviva. The […]
By Brittni Barcase This story was featured in “My Life During A Pandemic” No one can prepare you for the loneliness that accompanies motherhood. It can be extremely isolating. One minute you are a single person in the world and the next minute you are […]
At this point, we have heard the phrase “these are unprecedented times.” And while we may tire of hearing those words, it doesn’t change the reality that these are indeed, unprecedented times. Now that we are fully into the new year, we decided to reach […]
By Lauren Gill, CJE Community Connector Just before Christmas, my daughter, Madeleine, came to me to ask me what can only be described as a barrage of questions on all things Santa. “How does Santa get to all the houses in one night?” “How […]
“We loathe to define it. So we have a conceptual framework – at the end of the day, it’s important for people to be able to racially self-identify. It needs to be fluid and,” she adds “it depends on context.” Kaufman points out that Jews […]
“Here, we were, isolating, when we discovered this amazing care package, filled with Israeli snacks and chocolate, challah, grape juice and more. It came from Maryland Hillel,” she recalled. “It made me realize that someone, other than my parents, were concerned about how we were doing.” These TLC packages, which would […]
My interest in genealogy dates back to 1954, the year of my bar mitzah. Rabbi Rosenblatt had given all of us graduating students a “roots” assignment: interview your parents and grandparents about who your ancestors were and where they came from. I still have some […]
Earlier job I worked at Good Shepherd Center, which was a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed teenage girls. It was a tough job because the girls were difficult, but I loved it. I have never had a better job. I taught English to […]
Ever since the pandemic interrupted our daily lives, several of us have sought refuge (and subsequent weight gain) in our kitchens. What better way to pass time, be with family and teach a little math and science along the way to the ultimate tasty treat? […]
As a Jewish educator it is my job and pure joy to make holidays fun and educational for my students. As a mom, I am delighted to see the joy in my son’s face when he is engaged in holiday celebrations. My son Asher, who […]
This is largely thanks to my being invited to serve on The Associated’s Baltimore Partnerships Committee, which has stirred me to participate in, attend, and give feedback on several community projects. This nudge has encouraged me to join the Baltimore Jews of Color Community coalition, […]
In this episode of Pull Up A Chair, we talk with long time camper and counselor Shelby Dorich and her mother, Susan Sirkis, as they share memories of their summers spent working and attending Camp Milldale. Anyone who remembers the allure of summer camps of […]
What is the last book you read? The Testaments by Margaret Atwood. What is currently in your Netflix (or other streaming) queue? Kim’s Convenience and the last season of Schitt’s Creek. Can you share some of your favorite family Chanukah traditions? I have two favorite […]
Chanukah StorytimeBegins December 10 Celebrate the Jewish holiday of Channukah this year online with the Jewish Museum of Maryland, the Macks Center for Jewish Education, PJ Library, the JCC and other community partners. Every night we will come together for stories, activities and candle lighting. This virtual […]
What was it like searching for and then starting a new job during COVID-19? Looking for a new job was stressful. Would I be able to get an in-person interview? How would I be able to shadow the position? What if I cannot sell myself over […]
Who would have thought that 10 months after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we would still be in the throes of it? Although this time has been difficult for everyone, it has been particularly so for older adults. While parts of the community has opened up since the early days in March, many older […]
Life during the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for all of us. But for those who were struggling before the crisis, the effects have been dire, says Ashley Pressman, executive director of Jewish Volunteer Connection, an agency of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore. While […]
So, how did this horrible misunderstanding come about? Well, I’m guessing it’s partly due to Chanukah’s close proximity to Christmas, and the evils of assimilation. Currently, Chanukah and Christmas, not to mention Kwanzaa, Three Kings Day, and Korean New Year now have so much in common with each other that you […]
With the winter season fast approaching, and extra time spent at home, indoors. What is a kid to do? Spend time reading together as a family this Chanukah. Check out some of the favorite PJ Library books for Chanukah. For a more extensive list of PJ Library recommendations please see their book […]
1. Most of the Jewish Ethiopian community in Israel made Aliyah in two waves of immigration assisted by the Israeli government: Operation Moses (1984), and Operation Solomon (1991) 2. Today, Israel is home to the largest Jewish Ethiopian community in the world, with 7,000 living […]
3. If you could meet one person (dead or alive) who would it be and why? Kamala Harris to thank her for shattering the glass ceiling for all women. 4. Which show(s) have you binge watched during the pandemic? Schitt’s Creek and Shameless 5. […]
Building a Jewish community has always been a priority for Michael Green. So, when Michael became very sick with coronavirus early in the pandemic, it was no surprise that an entire community of friends, family and colleagues stood ready to help in his recovery. A […]
March 15, 2020 was the day of my daughters baby sprinkle. We were planning to celebrate with friends and family and everything was set and ready to go. Unfortunately, March 13th came first, and we made the tough decision to cancel the party. My world […]
With no immediate end in sight to the global pandemic, teens are finding their lives upended in more ways than one. During a time in life when they crave independence and peer connection, they are often forced to social distance and engage from home. So, […]
For this episode of Pull Up A Chair we take a close look at a very delicate topic…domestic violence in our community. We hear the personal story of survival from *Rachel, a well-known member of our community and learn from CHANA Executive Director Lauren Shaivitz […]
This spring, as COVID-19 transformed our world, The Associated partnered with The Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies at Brandeis University to examine the impact of the pandemic on the Jewish community. Baltimore was one of 10 communities that participated in the study, which drew […]
It was April 2020 and the height of the global pandemic. Cases of COVID-19 were soaring across the state. Fraught with stress, knowing that information about the virus was changing constantly, Sophie Cohen, who was due with her third child, knew that this time would […]
The struggle is real. The pandemic has taken a significant toll on the mental health of many in Baltimore’s Jewish community. Fortunately, in these difficult times, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore’s agencies and programs are equipped to serve the needs of the community safely […]
As longtime donors to The Associated, Becky and Josh learned about how donor advised funds (DAF) work, and recently decided a DAF made the most sense for their family to simplify their charitable giving. They enjoy the ease of giving through a DAF, stating that, […]
2020 has been a tumultuous year to say the least. As you and your advisors sit down to discuss year-end tax and charitable planning, there are several additional factors this year that can influence key decisions. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact virtually all aspects […]
As a young boy, growing up in Rockaway Beach, NY, in some ways Robert Keehn lived every young child’s dream. The son of a toy wholesaler, Robert looked forward to when his parents would vacation in Florida, for they would leave a garage full of toys– a new one for each day they were away. Every year on his birthday, his father […]
As the pandemic continues, a growing number of people in our community are becoming newly vulnerable. Due to continued economic uncertainty, our community is facing increased need for job training and placement, mental health support and emergency financial assistance. There is a rise in the […]
Some legacies are written on buildings, others are remembered through awards – yours can be handed down from generation to generation. Making an after-lifetime commitment expresses the values instilled in you by your parents and grandparents. A legacy gift ensures that the traditions and Jewish […]
Recently The Associated and the Baltimore Jewish Times partnered together for the My 2020 Journey Writing Contest. This contest honors The Associated’s 100th birthday, capturing the historical perspective of 2020 and the importance of community during this unprecedented time. Get to know our youngest first place winners. Evan […]
Eileen Creeger, mother of two grown sons and grandmother to four adorable grandchildren, jokingly says that after working part-time for many years in various administrative jobs she had a mid-life crisis. Through career counseling she discovered that she loved working with words. What made […]
It looks like a long winter is ahead, and you’ve pretty much exhausted Netflix. Not sure what do in your spare time? Why not hunker down with a good book as the weather gets colder. We reached out to the Baltimore Jewish community for ideas on what they are reading right now as […]
It’s amazing to realize that generations from now Hebrew school students will be learning about life (and B’nai Mitzvahs) during the time of Covid. Right now, my daughter Lyla’s closet should be filled with dresses waiting to be worn to her friends’ B’nai Mitzvahs. We should be finalizing aliyahs, going to […]
The year of 2020 has brought many challenges that have adversely affected the health of numerous Americans. Yes, there is the apparent physical health challenges COVID-19 has presented for us, but the underlying component that has possibly suffered the most is our mental health. The onset of COVID-19 […]
You returned to Baltimore last year after some time in New York. How and why did you make the decision to come back here? My fiancé and I loved being in Manhattan, but ultimately, we knew that we were ready to be back home and […]
Choosing a school for your child is often fraught with agonizing decisions and a sea of choices that are hard to navigate. In the pandemic, the layers of that choice are all the more complex. Each family has multiple options and creative solutions abound. Below […]
Recently The Associated and the Baltimore Jewish Times partnered together in honor of The Associated’s 100th birthday to capture the historical perspective of 2020 and the importance of our community during this time period with the My 2020 Journey Writing Contest. In our Budding Authors category […]
It’s first thing on a Monday morning and the kitchen at Pearlstone is already buzzing. The Executive Chef Rebecca Pauvert, along with her culinary team, are hard at work preparing 150 quarts of tasty, nutritious soup. The soup will be picked up tomorrow – Tuesday– by the nonprofit, Baltimore Gift Economy, who will distribute it to individuals facing food […]
“He was a part of my life and that was it.” This Episode was Recorded Before The COVID-19 Pandemic When Jared Raitzyk was seven years old, his mother reached out to the Jewish Big Brother Big Sister program overseen by Jewish Community Services. Now, more […]
2. Where Everyone Knows Your Name: Savannah, she says, was a small but tight-knit Jewish community. On Sundays, it often felt like everyone Jewish in town was at the JCC. In many ways, her hometown was similar to Balimore. Although Baltimore is a bigger city — and the Jewish community is larger — it still has that […]
McKenna Bates can hardly believe how lucky she is. In a year, when many of her friends are struggling to find work, after graduating from college, she landed her dream job. Bates, a 2020 graduate of George Mason University, is the new Israel engagement associate […]
Access to food is a social justice issue. Even before the coronavirus disrupted our lives, millions of people nationwide struggled with being able to afford adequate amounts of nutritious food. On this episode of Pull Up A Chair we talk with Ashley Pressman, the executive […]
The Associated’s Insight Israel Forum kicked off its second year with a dynamic, interactive webinar – Israel: What’s Next? Moderated by Beth Goldsmith, chair of the board of The Associated, the panel included J.J. Goldberg, editor at large of The Forward and Jonathan Tobin, editor-in-chief […]
It’s fall. With cooler temperatures and shorter days, it’s time to move cooking indoors. It’s also the time of year to take advantage of the wonderful fall produce – apples, pomegranates and more. We asked our community for some of their favorite recipes. Check out these delicious ideas – from a decadent caramel apple pie to […]
I detect an accent. Where are you from originally? Cape Town, South Africa – My family and I emigrated to Atlanta (Go Braves and Falcons!) and I stayed in Georgia until I completed my undergraduate degree. What brought you to Baltimore? I came to Baltimore […]
Falling in love is easy, and certainly one of the most beautiful and exciting experiences of our lives. We’ve seen the Disney movies, read the fairytales, and pretty much absorbed the cultural construct of some version of meeting our “soulmate,” falling in love, getting married, with the expectation that they will live “happily ever after.” So, how do we cope when our […]
As school begins, albeit virtually for many, and as the days grow cooler, we begin to shift away from the lazy days of outdoor living to a new way of doing things. Although the coronavirus is still around and limiting how we interact, it doesn’t mean we have […]
This September, the JCC is launching a brand-new approach to arts and culture – Words and Ideas – that will bring films, performers, thought leaders and authors from all over the world into Baltimore homes. Words and Ideas, which positions the JCC arts programming on a national scale, features conversations with best-selling authors, deep […]
For those who know Amy Pollokoff, they know of her kindness, her commitment to family and community and, of course, they know about her legendary cookies. The more than 60 batches of peanut butter, candy bar cookies, mandel bread and more that she traditionally bakes […]
For David Platt, embracing change involves a healthy balance of learning to speak up and remembering when to listen. A Baltimore native, David moved back to the area in 2017, having spent some time in a few other cities for work and graduate school. Today, […]
Robin Belsky has lent her voice, passion and knowledge over the years through her work as a Capitol Hill staffer and lobbyist, global market researcher, advocate against domestic abuse and member of several local boards including CHANA and The Associated’s Jewish Professional Women (JPW). Over […]
The spring brought virtual classes from my childhood bedroom… religious school lessons that I taught from that same bedroom… an internship too. I no longer had a commute downtown for my internship or to Pikesville for religious school, but I had enough consistency to find the substance of my day familiar. The […]
While this New Year may look different than years past, and we may not be getting together with extended family, many of us will still prepare and enjoy a holiday meal . This year, we turned to our community members to help us plan the […]
Learn about some of the deep connections that Baltimore shares with Ashkelon, its partner city in Israel. We talk with Harriette Wienner and Dixie Leikach who both hosted two of Baltimore’s first Shinshinim (18-year old Israeli emissaries) and share their experiences all these years later. […]
What would happen if suddenly, tomorrow, COVID-19 would disappear? We wake up to find our air germ-free and no vaccine needed. Life as we once knew it resumes. Or does it? I imagine people slowly emerging from their places of shelter after a hurricane. They can see […]
Source: MyJewishLearning.com and NSW Board of Education Akedah – Pronounced ah-keh-DAH. Literally “binding,” the Akedah refers to the biblical story of the binding of Isaac, which is traditionally read on the second day of Rosh Hashanah. Chag sameach – Pronounced KHAG sah-MAY-akh. Literally “happy holiday,” a common greeting on […]
You currently serve on The Associated’s Lawyer’s Committee. What other leadership roles have you held within The Associated system? Why is being involved important to you? After completing the YLC program, I held a variety of roles on various young leadership committees. Soon after completing YLC, I co-chaired the Young Business Roundtable […]
How did you first become interested in art? As a child, my parents sent me to the Baltimore Museum of Art for Saturday classes. I also remember when I went to Camp Louise, the minute I finished my morning chores, I made a beeline to arts and crafts! One of […]
Favorite memory from childhood? Matt: One of my favorite memories I can recall from our times at Jemicy was having classes, like Social Studies, together and constantly making each other laugh. Adam: My favorite memory is when Matt would make me laugh while I […]
For someone who spent 26 years in front of a middle school classroom at Krieger Schechter Day School, who sits on steering committees and co-chairs programs, it may be hard to believe that Sima Abarbanel prefers to take a low profile. But for this committed volunteer, it’s never been about being in the spotlight. It’s always been about getting things […]
Although that long-awaited trip to the West Coast or even the beach may not be happening this year, that doesn’t mean you have to scrap your vacation plans. This summer, Pearlstone is offering COVID-safe family getaways on its picturesque 180-acre campus, complete with outdoor adventures, food and meal plans […]
Widespread news stories have already reported the concerning rise of domestic violence cases due to coronavirus lockdown measures and stay-at-home orders. But many older adults are at risk of domestic violence as well, as they are isolated from families and loved ones due to the […]
What happens when a family leaves everything behind to escape antisemitism in the former Soviet Union, and in the process of starting over, discovers a new best friend? On this next episode of Pull Up A Chair, we sit down with Dr. Nina Kashtelyan and […]
In March 2020, the world turned upside down. The older adult, the parent, the young adult, suddenly found themselves facing a new reality, one where connections went virtual, lunches with friends were put on hold and life events were altered. Although many faced difficulties, what […]
As the world begins reopening and many people begin to venture out, we might expect the anxiety that affected many of us at the start of the coronavirus pandemic would begin to lift. Not so fast. Howard Reznick, Manager, Prevention Education at Jewish Community Services […]
For the past four summers, I have been in charge of running the summer reading program offered by the Macks Center for Jewish Education (CJE), an agency of The Associated. Right after Pesach I typically reach out to a few different family entertainment venues and find a […]
I think we can all agree that 2020 has turned out a lot differently than any of us could have imagined. It has been almost three months since COVID-19 entered our lives and while we may have settled into a “new normal,” the vast majority of us […]
In acknowledgment of their generosity, Cardozo Society members are invited to exclusive events and opportunities through The Associated. In addition to public recognition in The Associated’s Annual Honor Roll, Cardozo Society members will be listed in a Daily Record ad this fall. Learn why Brian […]
Much has changed since last May when Sarah David and Saadya Zakheim were awarded the Fred Walpert Young Leadership Award for their involvement and leadership within The Associated community. From The Associated’s Centennial, which was launched in January, to the coronavirus pandemic and the recent death of George Floyd and the subsequent protests, our world looks […]
Prior to the coronavirus epidemic, approximately one in four Baltimore City residents lacked access to good, healthy food. Now, with unemployment rising, food insecurity is affecting even more individuals. Add to that the fact that, more than 300,000 Maryland children rely on meals received during […]
For weeks, we knew the inevitable was coming, but when we received the email that Camps Airy and Louise were closing for the summer, I truly felt a deep sadness in my heart. While I recognize that there are far more serious tragedies going on in […]
“It has been helpful for camps to come together and discuss what each is thinking and how these decisions impact their families,” shares Saadya Zakheim, Chair of the Center for Jewish Camping Advisory Committee. “We also are exploring ways that the Center for Jewish Camping […]
The surge of coronavirus and this state of quarantine has certainly changed our lives. Many of us are just trying to get through the day or the week, let alone plan for the future. Whether dealing with a difficult child at home, worrying about paying […]
“Humans stamp many coins with one seal and they are all like one another; but the King of kings, the Holy Blessed One, has stamped every human with the seal of the first man, yet not one of them are like another” Talmud, Sanhedrin 4:5 […]
Tikvah Womack was preparing for a Shabbaton at her synagogue when Rina Goloskov reached out to her with an idea she wanted to discuss about making their community stronger. Both women live in Northwest Baltimore, in diverse neighborhoods of African American, Jewish and Latinx families. […]
How do you talk to your children about race? It can be challenging for parents, grandparents and teachers when we do not have all the answers. We may stumble over our words; we may feel we do not have the right language. This is ok! […]
As the country mourns the brutal deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and too many others and responds by protesting racism and intolerance, The Associated is building upon its long-standing social justice agenda to partner with other organizations in tackling structural racism and improving […]
This month, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore released its most comprehensive findings about the Baltimore Jewish community in the past decade. Designed to better understand the changing landscape of Jewish Baltimore and its emerging needs, the 2020 Community Study – Foundation of Our Future: […]
The coronavirus pandemic has caused us to reevaluate our options for entertainment, work and social interactions. As we continue to cope in different ways, many of us have seized the opportunity to relive family moments by sharing old photographs and retelling personal stories, leaving us […]
When the coronavirus pandemic virus hit, Pearlstone’s business was booming. Sales from its Retreat Center were growing exponentially, as was its in-person experiential learning opportunities that focused on Living Judaism, like immersive holiday celebrations and Family Farm Camp. Yet in March, things would suddenly change. […]
With the start of a new school year many students and parents are thinking about their next steps. What will this semester look like? What are the risks? Will we be back on campus? And, if so, how will we socialize and connect in this […]
While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our daily lives with adjustments in our routines here at home as well as in Israel and around the world, it is comforting to know that amid the uncertainty, there are still moments of strength and hope that […]
Since the coronavirus epidemic began, uncertainty and fear have become part of our daily lives. For many, these stresses ebb and flow as we try to navigate our new normal. For some, it’s the stress of homeschooling a child while trying to work. For others, […]
The program, funded by the Herbert Bearman Foundation, was first introduced to CHAI’s Senior Home Repair clients in April. Now, more than 700 area older adults are benefitting. “Our main goal is to keep our community safe and well, especially those who are at greatest […]
For Joe Uddeme, a Pikesville High Alum and member of Jewish Baltimore, being able to give directly to the community is vital. “If you look around the world, you know that people need help everywhere – in Europe. In Africa. In the United States,” says […]
As a human-beings on planet Earth during the global pandemic of 2020, we are all experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions. One of the most grounding activities that brings me emotional solace during good times, and even more so during the uncertain times we are living […]
As we continue to stay at home during the current coronavirus pandemic, we all have questions. Questions about the best medical protocols, questions about how to destress and manage our sudden fears and anxieties, questions about our jobs and our money. To answer these questions, […]
Everyone is challenged or struggling in one way or another as the world adapts to the COVD-19 pandemic. With each passing week, there are different aspects of daily life that force us to adjust to the “new normal.” We are flooded with information; a lot […]
Roasted Brussels Sprouts in Balsamic Glaze By Eve Wachhaus: Deputy Director at Pearlstone Food can be a great way to support our frontline healthcare workers. Check out Pearlstone’s partnership with LifeBridge Health and donate a farm-to-table meal to nourish these caregivers. See how you […]
With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, our eight Baltimore shinshinim (Israeli emissaries) returned home to Israel where they will now stay for the rest of the school year. They will continue their shnat sherut (a year of service) remotely until the beginning of June. […]
The years passed and Ornit met Moran, got married again and had three more children, me included. This is the story of my family in a nutshell – a story of loss and memory, but at the same time, it is also a story of […]
Since JCS went virtual with its services, a typical day in Levey’s life looks quite different than it did only a short time ago. Not only is he ensuring that existing clients receive the support they need – albeit in the new virtual environment—but he […]
Yet since the Covid-19 pandemic, Melanie has taken on an even bigger role, adapting her work to the new reality. So how is she doing? We caught up with this mother of two teenage boys who spoke about tech, the Myerberg and COVID-19. How […]
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a spike in domestic violence cases as stay-at-home orders place victims and their abusers in constant proximity. According to Lauren Shaivitz, Executive Director of CHANA, an agency of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, social isolation is a form of abuse that […]
Part of The Baltimore Jewish Council’s (BJC) mission is to foster cooperation and understanding within the Jewish community and build relationships and mutual understanding with diverse groups across Maryland through advocacy, education and action. In keeping with these themes, here are a few suggested podcasts. […]
Like nearly every other organization or business the Baltimore Jewish Council has been forced to adapt to the new way of life that we now have in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. While it is a scary and unprecedented situation to be in, we […]
Staying at home for an extended period of time can pose a significant challenge for remaining physically active. Sedentary behavior and low levels of physical activity can have negative effects on your health, well-being and quality of life. Self-quarantine can also cause additional stress and […]
When China first began lifting its quarantine, something, perhaps not too surprising, happened. Divorce rates spiked among couples, who had found old wounds and hidden fissures in their marriage simply too hard to overcome. Yet, spending 24/7 time with your spouse throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, […]
Family seders in our house were full of energy. My grandmother and her brother would sing a song they learned in a choir in high school. My uncle would teach me the fine art of how to sneak under the table to steal the afikomen […]
This year especially, we want to wish you a happy Passover. As you prepare for your Seder, we encourage you to think about these top 5 things to make a meaningful Seder for your family. Each step gives you links to explore each topic in […]
Here are four ways to engage your families in Passover celebration, even though that may look different this year. 1. Tell The Story A major part of many religious holiday celebrations is telling the story. Engage your children by assigning characters and acting out the […]
Every day at CHANA, we are committed to the health and safety of all members of our community. We know that this may be a particularly frightening and isolating time for victims and survivors of abuse and trauma and their children. We also know that people are especially vulnerable […]
48 Hours Two thousand is the magic number. For that’s how many meals Pearlstone professionals prepared in two days to feed Baltimore City youth. As soon as the crisis began, Pearlstone’s senior leadership team began looking for partners and ways to help those in need. […]
There are several things everyone can do turn the potentially tiresome evening into a night of excitement and belonging. While all of the tips you’ll read apply to everyone, they are especially helpful for children with learning issues. Some ideas are pretty obvious, but bear […]
Here in Maryland, over 41,000 people have filed unemployment claims this past week alone according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Local career centers have been busy as many Marylanders facing unemployment turn to them for support and assistance. The career services center at Jewish […]
This Passover season feels like no other. We face an international pandemic of Coronavirus/ Covid-19, which feels so unpredictable and dangerous. We must seek to find new meaning for a holiday season which is uniquely challenging. In V’hei Sheamda, a traditional piece of the Passover […]
And, older adults are particularly vulnerable. Not only are those over 65 most at risk for serious complications from COVID-19, but as they stay home, they are at risk of becoming socially isolated. Asked to stay away from family and friends, they must find ways […]
From the days of playing on the roof of the old Jewish Educational Alliance (JEA) building to swimming in bathing caps at Camp Milldale’s pool …. From counting on the men to chauffer the women as they went door to door raising money on G-Day […]
As our community, and others around the world, continue to deal with the coronavirus outbreak, the Jewish Agency for Israel made the decision to bring home the 150 shinshinim (Israeli Emissaries) who are working in the U.S. during their gap year prior to serving in […]
As we continue to practice social distancing, many of us will be facing days, possibly weeks at home. Whether we are teleworking, “homeschooling” or just stuck inside, there are things we can do to avoid cabin fever as we wait out the coronavirus pandemic. Here […]
Updated 6/23/2020 to reflect the upcoming Summer and the current impact on our children’s education. To say that the coronavirus has impacted many, if not all, aspects of our lives would be an understatement – with our children’s education being no exception. Rachel Turniansky, director […]
Adam Yosim’s Atlanta Brisket YieldMakes 10 to 12 Servings Ingredients 5 lbs fresh beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat 2 bottles (16 ½ oz. each) Coca-Cola (not Diet Coke) 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 3 tsp.. vegetable oil 2 cups […]
In a modern age of constant contact and sensationalized news broadcasting, we, as parents, not only have to find ways to deal with our own feelings about scary news stories, but also the inevitability of our children’s encounters with them. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 […]
Kol yisrael arevim zeh b’zeh Caring for one another and helping to keep our community safe are The Associated’s top priorities. The Associated and its network of agencies continues to actively monitoring the evolving updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19). We are working closely with our beneficiary […]
The burning of the chometz (food product made from wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt or their derivatives that has leavened, which is forbidden to eat on Passover) is a tradition that brings thousands to northwest Baltimore every year for Passover. Beginning in 2010, families arrived at the […]
Passover is a joyous time to celebrate with friends, family, and new acquaintances. Here are some suggestions for weaving earth friendly practices and discussion topics into your Seder. Buy Ugly Produce Host a Plastic Free Seder Grow Your Own Karpas Give Earth […]
A healthful diet can reduce your risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other nutrition experts, a healthy diet is: High in complex carbohydrates: Fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes should make up 45 […]
Does a reward system work? Reward systems work to change behavior when they are properly designed. The following are some basic pointers. First, a specific behavior that one wants to see more of should be targeted. For example, “being good” is vague and difficult to pinpoint […]
On this episode of Pull Up A Chair, we have love and romance. Elise and David Saltzberg actually found each other thanks to The Associated. They talk about how it was actually diamonds and deception that ultimately drew them together, but it’s not what you […]
It is this love for Baltimore and the conviction to make a difference that inspired this mother of two sons, Alex and Evan, to give back. She began volunteering through The Associated’s Jewish Volunteer Connection (JVC), and now serves as chair. This year, she’s particularly […]
In December, The Associated’s Family Mission returned from a 10-day trip to Israel that brought together generations of families for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The group, made up of Baltimore community members of all ages, explored both the historical and religious significance of our Jewish homeland. […]
Perhaps that’s why she didn’t shy away from the chance to serve as chair for the celebratory phase for The Associated’s Centennial and a chance to be its cheerleader. Yet if you dig deeper, you will soon realize that being chair goes way beyond the […]
The plan, which provides for keeping the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, turns over 50 acres of land to private developers to build housing and commercial buildings. It calls for flexible spaces that could be customized, with the idea that the infield could be used for […]
In this episode of Pull Up A Chair, Associated President Marc B. Terrill sat down with JMore’s Gary Stein and Isaac ‘Bougie’ Herzog, Chairman of the Executive at The Jewish Agency for Israel. They talk about the state of global jewry, the rise in antisemitism, local […]
“I think my father, and other Jewish parents of his generation, wanted their children to get education — the education they didn’t have,” says Dr. Keehn. “He [my father] always said you should learn something every day.” It’s a message that the doctor has tried […]
Get Ready for IMPACT’s Generosity Gala by testing your knowledge of the era.
Included in this new tax bill were several changes to the rules regarding IRAs. Read below for the changes and how it may impact your retirement benefits: The age to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) increased from 70½ to 72. Taxpayers who turned 70½ in […]
I was asked to write a blog post on the top 10 best children’s books that have become part of the CJE (Macks Center for Jewish Education) Library collection last year. This was not an easy task. The best children’s books up into five specific […]
After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in English and American Literature in 2000, Tracee went directly to University of Maryland School of Law, then clerked for the Hon. Norris J. Byrnes in the Circuit Court for Baltimore County after graduation. […]
“He prayed every night and hung onto his religion. No one could take away the thoughts in his mind. So, he felt strongly that if I would become a doctor, it would always provide me with security and a profession, no matter what happened. He […]
Welcome to Pull Up A Chair, a bi-weekly podcast from The Associated. Join us as we sit down and talk with members of our community. Hear the personal stories of Jewish Baltimore – from CEO’s to The Bagels Boys to Summer Camp Sweethearts. We’ll laugh, […]
David Ben Yehuda, Pearlstone’s Israeli Shaliach, spent a month this past fall training to become a certified Yoga instructor and added yet another immersive program option available to Pearlstone’s retreat guests and staff. In this video, David will walk you through a yoga exercise with one unique component – he teaches it through a Jewish lens.
Yet, at the heart of what she will say – and emphasize over and over again – was the blessing of growing up in a tight-knit Jewish community, one filled with close family and friends and a dedication to Jewish life. Today, as this former teacher heads up The Associated’s Jewish Lead Team, she will bring this passion for Judaism to her […]
That was the inspiration behind Food for Thought, The Louise D. and Morton J. Macks Center for Jewish Education (CJE) program funded by The Associated’s Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership. The program offers a cohort of CJE connectors an opportunity to strengthen their connection to Israel and Judaism […]
As we made the drive from Baltimore to the mountains of Maryland, I instantly felt the same excitement I had all those years ago when my parents would drop me off for the summer. Initially, when I was in elementary school and attending overnight camp […]
It is my privilege to be Chair of Philanthropic Planning and Services at The Associated. For years I have been intimately involved in the innermost workings of The Associated in many roles including Chair of the Board and at a national level with Jewish Federations […]
Having taken a ten-year hiatus, they began to visit more frequently, not at all deterred by the political climate and unrest at that time. “We were in Israel during the first Intifada in 1987 (Palestinian uprising against the Israeli presence in the West Bank and […]
Alyssa says that living and working in Tel Aviv-Yafo, provided her the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with the people of Israel, immersing herself in the country’s culture and strengthening Jewish connections. What did you do for Israelevitz Architects? I interned for Israelevitz Architects, a private architecture […]
Ari Abramson is a native Baltimorean who grew up in Pikesville and graduated from Pikesville High School. He left his hometown to attend Muhlenberg College, then returned to Baltimore for a job after college at Legg Mason. Today, this investment professional, active member of The […]
This past December, our family traveled to Israel for a breathtaking, 8-day trip. It was everything we hoped it would be and more. Few people would imagine that the planning for it took almost a year, spearheaded by Maia Hoffman, a “gift” to us from […]
At age 11, Fanta and her family fled Ethiopia and trekked more than 450 miles across the desert toward refugee camps of Sudan. After spending a year there, she and her family were airlifted to a place she had only heard about as a young […]
Thriving Jewish CommunityIn partnership with The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), the Jewish community in Odessa is thriving – they even have two Jewish Community Centers! The Beit Grand JCC and Migdal JCC serve as venues for large concerts & holiday celebrations and offers […]
Barrels of dried fruits and brightly-colored rice and grain mixtures tempt the eyes, while the tangy olives and aromatic spices entice the nose. Then there are the tastes. Flavorful cheese, three varieties of savory hummus, six varieties of burekas, the sweetness of creamy Malabi, made […]
What brought you to Baltimore? I was living in Washington, DC, when I met and married my husband who is from Baltimore. After we got married, his job took us to Chicago for a few years and then we moved to Baltimore to raise our children. […]
From as far back as I can remember – being married to my wife of 10 years (and knowing her for 12) – we have enjoyed participating in various types of “Community Service” days whether living in New Jersey or Maryland. While it has a […]
Finding out your child has a disability can be life-altering. Just ask Erica Hobby. Two years ago, when this Pikesville mother of two first learned her son has autism, she found herself adjusting to a new reality – one that left her with more questions […]
When she married her ex-husband in 1999, Lauren,* a mother of three, never dreamed she would find herself needing the services of CHANA. “In the beginning, my husband seemed like a nice guy. He seemed devoted, had a lovely, welcoming family and got along great […]
First, their college-aged daughter started vaping in high school. Now they discovered she had a substance abuse problem. As they searched for a recovery program for their daughter, so many thoughts went through their minds. How could they navigate the many treatment options and find […]
Update 10/14/20: The Baltimore Jewish Council and ECYP are honoring the legacy of Congressman Cummings with a virtual event tonight, Wednesday, October 14th at 7pm. Registration for that event can be found here. On the evening of November 18, 2019 – members of the Baltimore […]
Although 90 percent of these rockets were successfully intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system, one rocket did hit a building in Ashkelon, striking an elder care facility. In addition, the impact, once again, was felt throughout the city, with schools closing and residents […]
Mike Fuld will never forget the first time he saw his wife, Samantha. He was working at Kutz Camp as a staff member; so was Samantha. Mike and Samantha first met in 2006. They happened to both be assigned to work on an all-camp evening […]
How is it that elementary aged kids have been able to master the art of bottle tossing? Why are kids trying to eat as much cinnamon as they can possibly consume? The answer is YouTube. Kids are no longer being taught how to write cursive, […]
From his moving to the Canton area, to taking on a leadership role with the American Marketing Association Baltimore Chapter (AMA Baltimore), not to mention his role on the board of Towson Hillel, Dov’s life is a busy one. Even so, he still finds time […]
A leader in her career and our Jewish community, Sandi is Partner and Strategic Advisor at Brown Advisory, President of the Board of Trustees of Chizuk Amuno Congregation and serves on the Boards of three Supporting Foundations at The Associated: the William and Irene Weinberg […]
During 2019 I was pleased to participate in two events connected to my year as part of the Baltimore Jewish Council’s (BJC) Leadership Development Program that showed the interest and attention the BJC and the Associated put into connecting Jewish Baltimore to our neighbors of […]
Originally from Pittsburgh, Rachel moved to Baltimore after receiving her bachelors’ degree in 2009 and then beginning law school at the University of Baltimore. After permanently relocating to Baltimore, she soon found her niche in the Jewish community. It all started with one event, that […]
Perhaps it was the weekly Friday night dinners that no one ever missed or the antisemitism his grandparents faced that helped define who they became. It could have been the Big Brother he received when he was in elementary school that showed how much the […]
The teacher had tried everything and didn’t know what to do. The school, meanwhile, was at wit’s end, concerned it could no longer accommodate the youngster. The director approached the parents, suggesting they find a better fit. The response was swift. If their child left, […]
This past year, hate and bias incidents have risen in almost every jurisdiction in Maryland, targeting individuals and facilities, from schools and community centers to places of worship. It’s part of a growing uptick in antisemitic incidents occurring worldwide. That’s why, The Associated and the […]
“Many individuals never had role models to explain to them how to manage money,” explains Grayson Cohen. “And without that history, they often cannot keep to a plan and quickly overspend, making it hard for many to become financially stable for the long-term.” Recognizing how […]
Beth El Congregation’s Rabbi Steve Schwartz and The Associated’s Chair of the Board, Debs Weinberg, are heading up this effort and we spoke with them about the project. Why Now? Rabbi Schwartz: We are very lucky that Baltimore is highly affiliated, and we have an active […]
Front and center were new funding for security measures for Maryland’s houses of worship and the passage of hate crimes legislation. Fueled by the recent surge in anti-Semitic and racist incidents–the hate crimes bill, which passed overwhelmingly by the Maryland General Assembly – expanded penalties […]
It had only been four months since Shachar Pinsky arrived on Towson University’s campus as its new Jewish Agency Israel Fellow. At times, he admits, it wasn’t easy. Many of the Jewish students he encountered were apathetic. In their world, filled with academics, sports, activities […]
The grant, given to only four organizations in the nation, allows CHANA, through its SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders division, to administer a series of critical trainings to individuals in Baltimore City who come in close contact with potential victims and elder abuse cases. These […]
Here are four updates on ways the organization, through its agencies, is making a difference. Jewish Museum of Maryland Changes Lives in Partnership with City Schools Morrell Park: Projected, a collaboration between the Jewish Museum of Maryland, film students from Johns Hopkins University and Morrell […]
It wasn’t until she became a Social Justice Teen Fellow, a joint program between the Baltimore Jewish Council (BJC) and the Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP), that she became more versed on the topic and determined to showcase to others how difficult it is for […]
Summers spent at an overnight camp are all that and more. Research shows that attending an overnight camp also builds confidence and encourages independence – as well as creates friendships that often last a lifetime. Yet how do you know if your youngster is ready […]
Having traveled and worked there, Megan loved everything about the country from its culture to its people. So when Lerner heard from friends about The Associated Women’s Israel Mission, and the chance to travel to the country for its 70th anniversary, she signed up for […]
Little did he know that the experience would go beyond his expectations as he encountered a community rediscovering its rich Jewish heritage. Schwartz, head of Krieger Schechter Day School, was one of six Jewish educators traveling to the city on the program funded by The […]
Her grandfather would often sit her down and tell her stories about her family history – having arrived in the country as Russian immigrants. “It’s the age-old tale of religious discrimination. My family immigrated from Russia after facing pogroms and persecution there,” she says. “My […]
Growing up in the old Jewish neighborhood of Forest Park, surrounded by schools and shuls, Sue Glick Liebman learned early on that all Jews are responsible for each other – “Kol Yisrael areivim zeh b’zeh.” Sue’s personal journey is a narrative of strong faith, compassion and […]
“We guide our clients and multiple generations of their families in managing their wealth and real estate. We focus not only on their monetary goals but also help incorporate their interests and values into their overall financial plans,” David says. When discussing legacy planning, David […]
Crowded in a small home with 13 people – grandparents, parents and kids – this close-knit family would even take in relatives who immigrated to the United States. Despite the family’s financial hardships, Bean remembers they always had at least one pushke (tzedakahbox). “Whether it was for […]
Born in Pikesville, with grandparents living less than 10 minutes away, he attended religious school and Pikesville’s public schools where he admits, he didn’t have any non-Jewish friends until Pikesville High. The bond he felt for Jewish life, which was an instrumental part of his […]
“I saw this book, How to Paint, in the window,” he recalls. “It cost $1. It told you how to paint landscapes. It told me I needed brushes, I needed paper and I needed some paint. So, I bought those things, went home, looked out […]
The concept of home is duly relevant when trying to understand the needs of our aging parents. As they slow down and require some assistance, we lose confidence in their ability to live independently, especially if they live alone. It becomes tempting to relocate them […]
Myers believes that the more each neighbor understands other cultures, the closer and more sustainable the community will be. That’s why this African American gentleman participates in a Roundtable every other month, organized by CHAI, CASA of Maryland and the Fallstaff Improvement Association, bringing Latinx, […]
When I moved to Baltimore ten years ago for graduate school, I never imagined that I would stay and raise my family here. But I met my husband, found a great professional community, and we started to build our life. Four and a half years […]
It was Feldman who first told him about the work of the organization, and Halle soon began attending its IMPACT (young adult) events. Believing that becoming involved is a great way for him to give back and grow as a leader, this year, Halle is […]
Parents have a critical role to play in helping kids to form a strong Jewish identity as parents are their primary Jewish educator and guide. Specifically, the traditions established early in life help kids to develop necessary skills later on. These skills help us to […]
“My wife, Heidi, is from Baltimore but I am not,” explains Rich. “So, when we moved here five years ago, I didn’t really have a social or professional network. That’s where The Associated, particularly IMPACT, stepped in.” Rich knew he wanted to connect with other […]
Yet like many Baltimore natives, the call of home was too strong, and in 1993 she returned with her husband, Jamie, to raise their three children – Adam, Zack and Jenna. “After being away for college and graduate school, I wanted to move back to […]
In 2015 I was at my worst. I was tired, depressed and I wanted to stay in bed all the time. I remember having my mother visit for Thanksgiving and I didn’t even want to get up and cook the meal I typically would have […]
Passover is one of my favorite Jewish holidays! I love the food, the time with family, and the child-centric focus of the holiday. The Torah teaches us “You shall tell your child on that day, saying, ‘It is because of what The LORD did for […]
“I’m going to perform at the talent show this year.” “You are? With friends?” “Nope, by myself.” “What are you going to do?” “I’m going to dance.” That is essentially how the conversation with my 9-year-old daughter, Molly, went earlier this fall. For the first […]
This lack of knowledge and its broader implications – coupled with disturbing trend of increased hate incidents in the country – are at the heart of the recent effort by the Baltimore Jewish Council in shoring up Holocaust education in Maryland’s schools. This fall, the […]
From taking a leadership role in revitalizing and stabilizing city neighborhoods to working with local schools and other nonprofit partners to foster educational success, The Associated is committed to ensuring that Baltimore thrives. NeighborhoodsBeginning in 2015, The Jewish Museum of Maryland (JMM) took a leadership […]
The JCC of Greater Baltimore, founded in 1854, joined forces with the Y in Central Maryland, founded in 1853, in the first phase of what the two organizations believe to be a long-term partnership that will build bridges and make a lasting social impact in […]
PJ Library continues to be an amazing gift – for children and parents. Oh, the thrill of seeing that oversized blue and white envelope in your mailbox each month, and watching as your kid gleefully tears it open! Because, sure, bedtime may not always be […]
I sit on the edge of the platform looking down it feels like a mile to the ground. Am I really supposed to jump? My team is looking at me, walking me through the process of belaying in (securing a climber with a rope), tweezeling […]
Why did you want to co-chair Keynote this year? Brad: When we were approached about the opportunity to take this leadership role, we jumped. We’ve attended Keynote for the better part of the last decade. We always find Keynote to be a great opportunity to connect […]
The sports activity and clinic season is upon us, and it’s that time of year when many parents are faced with scheduling activities to keep their children busy and active during the afternoons and weekends. Youth sports cover a wide range of activity and choosing […]
In fact, camp made such an impression on this young professional that in his junior year at Towson University, this human resource management major decided to make Jewish camping his profession. Today, Zac works as an Engagement Coordinator at Camp Airy & Louise. He also […]
For Melanie Shapiro, change is a constant in her life. As director of Juvenile Justice Policy for the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, Melanie is an advocate for change (and sometimes for stability, ensuring policies remain unchanged). Today, Melanie’s involvement spreads beyond her professional […]
Although they may not be the largest givers—that honor belongs to the Boomers, according to a study by fundraising firm Blackbaud Institute—60 percent of millennials donate to charity, with an average of three charities per person. Millennials don’t take their obligation lightly—They give with their […]
She served as Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, with a niche area of expertise in Massive Weight Loss Body Contouring. After 11 years in academic practice, Michele moved into private practice in Lutherville, where her medical expertise […]
A shy girl of eight, she and her mother had just moved to the Pikesville community from their home in the Midwest, leaving her friends – and her father – behind. Suddenly her whole world turned upside down. “I was angry and awkward at the […]
For Alex Simone, manager of the Moveable Feast VolunTeam through Jewish Volunteer Connection (JVC), part of being in a community is helping one another. Quite simply, he says, it takes a village. Alex was born and raised in the Baltimore area, attending Beth Tfiloh Dahan […]
Ingredients:12 frozen blintz4 Tbsp. butter4 large eggs1 ½ cup sour cream1 Tsp. vanilla½ cup sugar2 Tbsp. orange juiceDash salt Instructions: 1. Melt butter in 9×13 pan. 2. Place blintz in pan, roll in butter. 3. Combine eggs, sourcream, vanilla, sugar, orange juice and salt. Beat together […]
Did you grow up in the area? I did. I grew up in the Owings Mills area, went to Beth Tfiloh for elementary school and then went to McDonogh for middle and high school. After that I took a training program in London for four […]
How did you first become involved in JWGF? Fourteen years ago, my dear friend Alyson Friedman told me that she was starting a new program with The Associated and asked me to join. I told her that it sounded interesting, but that I wanted to see […]
My friend, the parent of a first grader, knew what to expect when she attended an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting at her daughter’s school. A team of school staff would discuss her daughter’s progress and update her on any additional plans. What she wasn’t […]
Buoyed by her passion to serve, and inspired by a lifetime of smart, interesting women she had befriended over the years, she wanted to provide a place where they could get together, learn and change the world. “I’ve heard from women who want to learn […]
Cindy Kasner, a native Baltimorean, always knew she wanted to raise her family not far from where she grew up. She and her husband, Harvey, whom she met while attending optometry school in Philadelphia, believe that it is easier to connect to Judaism when living […]
Even with close friends, we can still feel isolated on a regular basis. Because we get to hear about them online, read their blog posts, check out their Instagrams and see their Vines, we are constantly reminded that we are not there and it can […]
Can you tell us a little about yourself? I grew up in Reisterstown and currently live in Pikesville. Last year, I became a Certified Aging in Place Specialist and started a business, Dermer Health Services, LLC. to help give people the opportunity to remain in their […]
Estate and financial planning professionals have the unique opportunity to not only help their clients achieve their financial, tax and estate goals, but their charitable goals as well. If you advise clients for a living, you have probably already built up a network of trusted […]
Tell me a little about yourself and what you do. I am originally from New Jersey and went to University of Maryland. Following college, my wife and I lived in Manhattan for about ten years until we moved here to raise our two children, Jordan (11) […]
“I remember answering the phone and it was the sheriff’s department calling me from Alameda County, California,” says Seidel. “They asked me if I knew Corey Seidel?’ I remember saying, ‘yes, that’s my son. Is he okay?‘ And then they told me he was dead.” […]
Yet already these two dynamic women are making their mark – continuing the legacy of their predecessors while providing their own ideas on how to propel their organizations forward. These native Baltimoreans, both attorneys with deep roots in the local Jewish community, speak candidly about […]
For it is her love of community that defines this Baltimore native, and it is community that motivates her to give back. Raised by parents who were dedicated to uplifting those around them, Weinberg credits their values with making an indelible imprint early on. Eugene […]
There is no better time to engage in Jewish learning than right now. Here are a few suggestions for how to incorporate Jewish learning into your daily life. 1. Engage with your synagogueEven if you don’t belong to a synagogue, you are welcome at any […]
As we reflect on our personal actions and look toward the year ahead, it is an appropriate time to contemplate our relationship with Earth and our roles as stewards of G!d’s creation. G!d created the first human beings and led them around the Garden of […]
For 2019, JCC Early Childhood Health Educators Janene Malamud and Laura Fink are advocating slower, healthier, and more mindful eating and moving for children. Janene, a Baltimore native and health educator with the J’s Early Childhood Education Center, has taught and served many a picky […]
“Climate change is real and is already affecting millions of people around the globe,” says Jakir Manela, Pearlstone’s chief executive officer. “Just as many Jewish leaders stood up during the Civil Rights movement to push forward that critical progress for our country, so must we […]
Yet, less than half of Baltimore’s Jewish community feels that connection to our homeland – and many who do, find it challenging to discuss their perspective. In response to these challenges, The Associated is taking a bold new step for dialogue and education about Israel. […]
The two new leaders have a long history of being involved, yet it is their passion for the work of the organization that truly inspires them. We recently caught up with the two to see how they first became involved, why they took the position […]
The Frumans own and operate National Lumber Company, a fifth-generation family business currently located in East Baltimore. Arnold Fruman, president of the company, works side by side with his two sons, Neal and Kevin. “I’m extremely proud to be part of a close-knit fifth generation […]
I remember my first time using a prescription opioid. I was 17 and just had my wisdom teeth extracted earlier in the day. I was lying on the couch in our family room watching a re-run of Gilmore Girls, trying to distract myself from the pain […]
Today, this businesswoman – her family owns restaurants at BWI – is chairing the Jewish Women’s Giving Foundation (JWGF) at The Associated. JWGF is a giving circle that empowers women, each of whom contributes the same amount, to direct grants to organizations that support women […]
A group of 20 Associated Women occupied three tables and immersed themselves into a day of learning and discovery. There was a palpable energy in the large banquet room filled with philanthropists, activists, and advocates who passionately addressed the importance of women as agents of […]
In today’s world, our children are faced with multiple safety and security threats that we never, in our wildest dreams, could have imagined. Of course, there were routine fire drills all throughout my school years and while I can remember as a young child sitting […]
Several years back, Harel Turkel was preparing to depart on a JFNA National Young Leadership Cabinet Mission to Mumbai, India. The timing of the trip was inconvenient since it would keep him away from his then 6-year-old daughter Maia’s siddur acceptance ceremony at Krieger Schechter […]
A mentor of mine suggested last spring, that I read one book to set the tone for our school year. Now in early August, I am almost finished with her assignment and ready to launch an unforgettable year at Towson University Hillel. Growing up in […]
What brought you to Baltimore? It was really a return to Baltimore for us, in that I did an MPH at Johns Hopkins in the mid 1980’s while I was a doctoral student at Georgetown and I always hoped I might have the chance to […]
At the time, he was pursuing a degree in computer science. Yet, he was fascinated by society’s challenges. “I started college thinking I would be addressing difficult problems that would ultimately yield solutions,” he recalls. “But my professor made me realize that the challenges we […]
Many people say that it’s a couple’s world and indeed, it may seem that way when you have been widowed or divorced. For those who are newly single the perception of a “couple’s world” is especially daunting. Baby boomers who are choosing to date have […]
Today I popped into the main office of Miguel’s high school to request an early dismissal for him. I was bringing him to his sixth and final appointment with an angel… a pro-bono dentist who treated and saved this 16 year old, his teeth and […]
How did you first get involved with The Associated? After graduating from law school, I knew I needed to broaden my social network and meet like-minded young professionals. I quickly joined YLC and became acquainted with some really great folks, many of whom I am still […]
Chances are, if your grandmother is Polish, Russian, Hungarian, Romanian, or Ukrainian, you probably grew up with this superstition and many like it. Like many cultures, Jews have developed numerous superstitious practices or bubbe meises (old wive’s tales), that have been handed down from generation to generation. […]
“I volunteered to drop them off,” recalls Klein. “And when I did, it was because these are the values I want my children to learn. I want them to know that they have an obligation to give back, not only to the Jewish community, but […]
Stephen Knable: IMPACT My favorite music is probably 90s rock. As a child of the 80s-90s, I grew up on this genre. Podcast wise, I listen to pretty much anything sports or politics related. My favorite podcast is fivethirtyeight politics. Other than my family, my professional […]
I can’t. Yet, that is precisely the choice my parents made when they decided to flee from Odessa over 40 years ago in search of a better life and for the freedom to be Jewish. My mother recalls, “It wasn’t much of a choice, we […]
As a young boy growing up in Randallstown, he recalls how everything from holiday traditions to his parents’ commitment to the Beth Israel sisterhood and brotherhood would play an important role in defining who he was. Although they did not have a lot to give […]
Judaism was always an important part of Kate Cohen’s life. It’s why this former teacher – now turned mother and Macks Center for Jewish Education (CJE) Connector – is hoping others will discover the beauty in Jewish life – in ways that work for their […]
As the community grew, it grew with them. And, as it changed, The Associated changed with it –providing for new immigrants, helping families through the Great Depression and Great Recession, supporting Jewish continuity and being there for Israel and Jews around the globe. And, as […]
The promise of new suburban housing, spacious lawns and new schools, coupled with discriminatory housing practices that prevented Jews from living in certain neighborhoods, shaped the migration to northwest Baltimore in the second half of the century. In 1959 the JCC was built on Park […]
Baltimore’s earliest Jewish immigrants–mainly from Germany and then from Russia and Eastern Europe–primarily settled in Fells Point, South Baltimore and East Baltimore, where they established homes, business, schools and synagogues. East Baltimore quickly became one of Baltimore’s first distinctly Jewish communities. And that’s where the […]
After the war, as Communism spread, Jews living in Cuba had their livelihoods and possessions stripped by Fidel Castro’s new regime. Many of them had been refugees from Nazi Germany and were forced to flee their homes for a second or third time. In the […]
It was 1945 and the European Jewish community was devastated. Millions had been killed by the Nazi regime and those who had survived its atrocities were desperate for help. In Baltimore, the local office of HIAS, which had been working before and during the war […]
In 1978, on the 30th anniversary of the founding of Israel, Baltimoreans decided to throw a party. Myriad events took place from April 6 until June 22 throughout the community. The Baltimore Jewish Council and the Baltimore Zionist Federation organized a gala concert at the […]
In 1977, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin announced the start of Project Renewal, a joint program of his government and the Jewish Agency for Israel, for rehabilitation of 160 distressed neighborhoods throughout the country. The program “twinned” areas with individual cities in the United States, […]
With the founding of the Israeli state in 1948, the remaining Jews of Europe were finally able to secure a home of their own. But immigrating and settling in a new land brought colossal challenges. Through its “Exodus Campaign,” the nationally organized United Jewish Appeal […]
In the years before World War II, German-Jewish parents anticipating the impending crisis, began sending their children to America to live with foster families. The Associated Jewish Charities and the Jewish Family and Children’s Bureau were the local supervisors of the German Jewish Children’s Aid […]
The “Centenarian Ball” of 1923 at the Hebrew Friendly Inn and Home for the Aged was reported to be a gay affair. Its 100-year-old residents (as well as their younger compatriots) danced the waltz, polka, quadrille, turkey trot and pigeon-wing. At 101 years old, Isaac […]
The 58-year-old man didn’t know what to do. For 24 years, he supported his wife and eight children through his work at a clothing factory. Then, suddenly, he was laid off. Lacking any other skills, he didn’t know how he was going to pay his […]
At the outset of World War II, American Jews were asked by numerous international organizations for funds to support the victims of Nazism. In response, the leaders of the Baltimore Jewish community created the Jewish Welfare Fund (JWF), which was charged with raising money for […]
When Louis H. Levin was appointed the first executive director of the Associated Jewish Charities in 1920, he was faced with a daunting task: uniting the German-Jewish Federated Jewish Charities with the United Hebrew Charities, a group of comparatively new immigrants from Russia and other […]
Soon after the newly formed Associated Jewish Charities launched, the organization sought to raise funds. It kicked off its first campaign in 1920 with a dinner at the Lyric Opera House, and a lofty fundraising goal of $500,000 or the equivalent of $6.5 million today. […]
In the early 1900s, Baltimore’s Jewish population was mainly divided into two distinct groups: German Jews, who had immigrated in large numbers during the 1850s and Eastern European Jews, who arrived during the 1880s and 1890s. In 1906, the German Jews, who predominantly lived uptown, […]
On January 18, 1971 nearly 1,500 members of Baltimore’s Jewish community marched from Mt. Vernon Place to Johns Hopkins University to express their protest of the treatment of Soviet Jews. Walking up Charles Street, they shouted, “One, two, three, four, help break down the iron […]
With the world redrawn after World War II, people were once again on the move, desperate to improve their circumstances. In Hungary, in the aftermath of 1956’s Hungarian Revolution, refugees escaped Communist oppression and arrived in Baltimore. Many were survivors of the Holocaust and were […]
If you were a European Jew looking to improve your lot at the turn of the 20th century, you looked toward the promise of the United States. And if you could afford passage–and were in relatively good health–chances are, you would have been allowed to […]
Providing summer activities for kids—and a place to escape Baltimore’s oppressive heat—was also an early mission of the Associated Jewish Charities. The Woodland Country Home, located in Catonsville, opened in 1922. Women, children and families would visit to regain their health, eat nutritious meals and […]
Ensuring that children received a quality Jewish education in the classroom was one of the first tasks undertaken by the newly created Associated Jewish Charities in 1920. Founding members organized a Board of Jewish Education (BJE) as a central agency to coordinate the financial and […]
Life was often difficult for immigrant kids growing up in East Baltimore. Their homes were small and crowded and their parents would be out working—or looking for work–all day. When the Jewish Educational Alliance was formed in 1909, making it one of the original constituent […]
Although the U.S. Supreme Court case, Shelley v. Kraemer, ended state-sponsored restrictive housing covenants in 1948, private parties—including neighborhood associations in Baltimore— continued to refuse to sell to Jewish and African-American populations. That attracted the ire of Leon Sachs, the first full-time director of the […]
In the late 1960s, a demographic study of the Baltimore Jewish community revealed a shocking truth: the community was woefully unprepared to deal with its aging population, specifically when it came to affordable housing. It was out of that study that organizers established CHAI (Comprehensive […]
Early on, leaders of The Associated realized the importance of attracting the next generation to the cause. The Young Leadership Council dates to 1928. The thinking was that given the opportunity to see at close range the work of The Associated and its agencies, young […]
In 1967, businessman and philanthropist Harvey Meyerhoff welcomed attendees to The Associated’s third annual Community Leadership Conference. He told the assembled group of Jewish leaders that it was up to them to develop a vision of their community–and to join The Associated in carrying out […]
Unlike many philanthropic organizations, The Associated has had women in lay leader positions from its founding in the early 1920s. A Mrs. Isidore Ash headed up the Council Milk and Ice Fund, which ensured those who couldn’t afford these basic necessities received them. Dr. Flora […]
The 1960s were a time of societal change and political unrest. Reflecting the changing roles of women in American society, the Women’s Division adopted new strategies for engagement and awareness of community needs. “Come See” bus tours, a precursor to Associated mini-missions, enabled women to […]
On Sunday, May 15, 1949—a year and a day after the founding of Israel—1,200 women driven by more than 460 male volunteer chauffeurs—fanned out across Baltimore from the Emerson Hotel to help raise money for settlers in the newly established state. The goal was for […]
While women held various positions at the Associated Jewish Charities (AJC), it wasn’t until 1945 that a formal Women’s Campaign Committee* organized. Helen Dalsheimer served as its first chair and encouraged women to step up and contribute in their own names, not just in the […]
Just a few weeks ago, I found myself in Israel on the Ashkelon Agricultural Farm, Hava Haklayit, with the breathtaking Ashkelon skyline in the backdrop. While newly jet-lagged, taking in the view of the city behind the farm, and breathing in the sweet Israeli air, […]
The Jewish Federations of North America’s leadership development program, National Young Leadership Cabinet, educates the next generation of global Jewish leaders and philanthropists from across the United States. The Baltimore Jewish community has always been an incredibly engaged one, and so, it comes as no surprise, […]
Today, Ashkelon sits at the center of the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. As a national information center, The Home Front Command, together with Professor Ronni Gamzu, national coronavirus “czar,” make regular visits to the city to check out how their instructions are being carried out […]
“We are very excited about Sol bringing his leadership, creativity and relationship building skills to the JMM as we strive to grow the organization and engage greater audiences,” says Nancy Kutler, President of the Board of the JMM. “We know he will build upon the accomplishments of Marvin Pinkert […]
2020 has been a tumultuous year to say the least. As you and your clients sit down to discuss year-end tax and charitable planning, there are several additional factors this year that can influence key decisions. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact virtually all aspects […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 2020CONTACT: The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, kshuster@associated.org, 410-369-9312 More than 160 local donors stepped up this past year to commit more than $20 million in legacy commitments to support the Baltimore Jewish community. These commitments are part of a collaborative […]
Minister Omer Yankelevich: Thank you all so much for opening the virtual doors to your beautiful community. It is obvious, even from Zoom, what a strong and special community this is. I was especially moved to see how the different leaders and communities work together […]
In response to changing trends in teen engagement, as well as changes to programming in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, 4Front, the comprehensive Jewish teen initiative managed by the JCC, is redesigning its signature offerings. This fall, 4Front will expand its menu of experiences and launch several new concepts, including niche programming and shorter sessions, so teens can participate in a variety of engaging opportunities that appeal to their diverse interests. From focusing […]
To expand bilateral trade and economic development between Maryland and Israel, the Maryland/Israel Development Center (MIDC) organized a trade mission to Israel for Maryland Lieutenant Governor Boyd Rutherford this winter. It was the Lt. Governor’s first visit to Israel and provided an opportunity for the […]
As depression, anxiety and suicide continue to rise among today’s adolescents, Associated agencies are providing new approaches to address these growing mental health issues. At the top of the list – a new mindfulness initiative in area schools – that combines yoga, breathing techniques, journaling […]
Little did this Baltimore native know, that the three weeks she would spend in an Ashkelon, Israel classroom would prove invaluable. Not only would it allow her to view Israel in a new way, but it would inspire her with new ways to teach her […]
For Pam Platt, there is one thread that has consistently run through her life, and that is her Judaism. It sits at the core of her upbringing – it’s how she indirectly met her husband – and it is driving her commitment to the volunteer […]
As the “seasons, they turn round and round”, it is time for the world’s birthday party, complete with painted ponies on “a carousel of time,” (song by Joni Mitchell). For these fresh eyes, filled with awe and wonder, the world was just created. Everything is […]
Even our ancient rabbis realized this back in the 2nd century when they wrote, “Do not say I will study when I have leisure, because you may never have leisure.” (Pirke Avot 1:17) When the high holidays arrive, life feels busier than ever, preparing for […]
It is hard to believe that fall is almost over and Chanukah is quickly approaching. As I plan our family holiday party, menu and all, I also want to make the holiday more meaningful for all of us. When I think back to Chanukah during […]
As Chanukah quickly approaches, we all have a lot on our minds…What night are we going to have our family get-together? When am I going to send the holiday cards? (Should I even send cards this year?) What am I going to get the kids […]
We reached out to our agencies for some ideas of what you can do this winter. Niki Bar, director of The Myerberg Center, had this to say: 1) Rediscover Your Life’s Purpose It’s easy to get stuck in daily routines without understanding why we do the things we do each […]
During two nights of celebrating 100 years of history, and looking forward to 100 years more, members of Jewish Baltimore gathered in Baltimore and Florida to kick-off The Associated’s Centennial Campaign. “The men and women of 1920 did not know how their one week, $500,000 […]
In this episode of Pull Up A Chair, we talk with Reuben Danyali and Carsyn Levitt, two local teens who recently participated in one of 4Front’s signature programs. Through STAC, Students Taking Action for Change, Reuben and Carsyn developed an understanding of the political process, […]
Small steps to make big impact in Baltimore, Israel and around the world
