“Key findings from the research indicate that young Jews overwhelmingly engage or aspire to engage in Jewish life, and perhaps in different ways than previous generations. Family and friends, nostalgia and guilt, the importance of spirituality over religion, and geographic distance all play a role in Jewish engagement and connectedness to Jewish communities. Young Jews are, on the whole, intellectually curious, compassionate, active in their communities and in exploring new activities, and generally proud of being Jewish. And while many young Jews aspire to be more involved in Jewish life and rekindle the positive Jewish experiences of their youth, some struggle to find the right connection points.”

Over the last year, I’ve met with many young adults and heard similar sentiments. Many are new to Baltimore, moving here for jobs and eager to meet Jewish friends. I heard from young adults that feel motivated to seek out Jewish experiences following the events of October 7. Many would try a new activity or visit a new space if they had friends to go with. Some are looking for synagogues to join, but most are looking for meaningful and exciting experiences in their neighborhoods, alongside Jewish peers with common interests or identities.

At the Louise D. and Morton J. Macks Jewish Connection Network, an agency of The Associated, we strive to empower and support individuals of many life stages to explore their own Jewish journeys — inspiring them to form lasting connections to a diverse, inclusive and vibrant Baltimore Jewish community. We support and celebrate every unique person, across their different identities and comfort levels with Jewish community and practice, as they navigate what living Jewishly means to them.

Young adults are a clear fit for our work, and we’ve spent time listening to and learning from young adults about what common interests, needs and barriers to participation might be. We consider the young adult life stage to mean ages 22-45 and without children  because becoming a parent often changes the ways people are looking to connect with their identity and community.

Based on everything we’ve heard, we created opportunities for Jewish young adults to make Jewish friends, connect to local organizations and express their values, and we’re excited to share some of those opportunities below.

As each young adult continues to define what Jewish life means for them, the Jewish Connection Network remains committed to supporting them with authentic connection, accessible resources and meaningful gatherings.

To learn more about Jewish Connection Network, click here.