Safety

To keep Jewish Baltimore safe, The Associated has increased its financial investment in security measures. That includes state-of-the-art technology and surveillance systems at Associated buildings such as the JCCs and Myerberg Center.

It also means working closely with all Jewish organizations, including our synagogues and day schools. As part of that effort, David Folderauer, director of security at the Baltimore Jewish Council (BJC), an agency of The Associated, is available to consult with these organizations, helping them with security assessments, working with them on their emergency plans and assisting them with their applications for security grants from MEMA (Maryland Emergency Management Agency) and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).

“Thanks to The Associated, we are incredibly fortunate to have the ability to leverage David Folderauer’s expertise to help us secure the homeland security grants that protect our Jewish day schools, synagogues and community organizations,” says Ari Krupp, First Vice Chair of Jewish Educational Services. “His work is essential in creating spaces where our children, families and community members can gather and feel safe.”

Folderauer is a former law enforcement executive with decades of experience, and he offers training on a wide range of topics, from active shooter scenarios to situational awareness, tailored to meet the specific needs of any group.

“Our focus is on creating a secure environment where families can gather, pray and celebrate without fear,” he says. “This is about more than just physical security; it’s about peace of mind.”

Legislation

Each year, The Associated, through the BJC, actively works on behalf of the Baltimore Jewish community, securing millions of dollars in local and national security grants.

In addition, the BJC advocates at the Maryland General Assembly for the passage of hate crimes legislation. In the past that included a successful bill to allow hate crime victims to bring civil actions against those who commit crimes and a bill that requires teachers and administrations to learn about antisemitism so they can better address and deter these incidents in schools.

Community Programming

The Holocaust Speakers Bureau, housed at the BJC, offers Holocaust survivors and their descendants a chance to speak at local businesses and schools. These individuals share their experiences and talk about antisemitism today. Other programs include community-wide commemorations around Kristallnacht and Yom Ha’Shoah.

And this year, the Associated’s Jewish Library of Baltimore is bringing in its Author-in-Residence, Liza Wiemer to talk about her book, The Assignment, and use it to talk about antisemitism. This includes Wiemer’s talk to middle schoolers at Darchai Noam Montessori School to help these Jewish students find ways to combat antisemitism.

Report an Incident
If you or someone you know experiences an act of antisemitism, report it at associated.org/report.