In kitchens, classrooms and synagogues, a question lingers: What does it mean to be Jewish in a time when nothing feels certain?
For many families in Baltimore and across the nation, these are anxious days. Headlines report surging antisemitism. Israel is in crisis. Economic and mental health needs are mounting. And the social services so many rely on may be at risk.
But across Baltimore, something amazing is happening as well. Families who once only nodded at each other in passing are now checking in, sharing meals and showing up for one another in new ways.
People are stepping forward, giving Jewishly and reaching out across ages and neighborhoods.
In this environment, The Associated network is working to make sure the Jewish community stays strong, is safe and has the resources to succeed. Check out what we are doing.
A United Front Against Hate
Antisemitic incidents across the nation and right here at home have risen sharply. It’s not only about words anymore; unfortunately, we’ve witnessed bomb threats, violence and vandalism.
As a result, The Associated is expanding its work in this arena with the creation of The Associated Center to Counter Antisemitism and Hate, led by Rebecca Krasner.
The Center will expand upon the work of The Associated’s agency, the Baltimore Jewish Council, and will focus on strengthening our educational efforts in schools and on college campuses, enhancing security, building coalitions across faith, race and ethnic communities and combating misinformation.
“We are committed to keeping our community safe at a time of rising fear. This Center reflects The Associated’s deep commitment to changing the narrative — empowering our Baltimore community to stand up to hate and misinformation,” says Andrew Cushnir, president and CEO of The Associated. “Our goal is not only to confront antisemitism with facts, but to lead through education, bringing people together to build understanding and mutual respect.”
Meeting Needs With Dignity
Uncertainty isn’t just a problem in the world around us, it’s affecting our everyday lives at home, too. Older adults, families struggling financially and people with disabilities often wonder: Who will help me?
Fortunately, that’s where The Associated network comes in.
One of those programs it supports is rides for older adults.
“Volunteers drove me to doctor appointments and to grocery shopping. They made sure I still felt connected,” says Esther, a 76-year-old Pikesville widow. “They didn’t just help me, they made me feel like I have a family again.”
In addition, recognizing that many in our community are living paycheck to paycheck, The Associated recently launched an easy-to-navigate site that includes financial resources available within its network. This includes everything from employment support to scholarships and homeownership assistance.
With all programs confidential, the goal is to erase the embarrassment that often comes with asking for help, while at the same time showcasing the many ways we can make it easier to succeed.
Jewish Pride: Small Moments, Big Impact
If you look closely at friends and neighbors walking around, you’ll spot stars of David necklaces being worn with pride. You’ll see more individuals signing up for Community Shabbat dinners and other programs that connect them to their Jewish identity.
In fact, since the shock of October 7, program signups are at record highs: more families are sending their kids to Jewish camps, coming to Jewish events or signing on to volunteer.
“It started with one Shabbat dinner invite,” recalls Karen, a mother in Mount Washington. “Now our kids play together, we celebrate holidays as a group and I connect other parents who are looking for the same thing.”
The Associated and its network of agencies are focused on helping everyone find their place. Whether it’s professionals making new connections at community events, parents swapping stories at Jewish holiday meetups, teens gathering after school to learn about social responsibility or young adults mingling at happy hours, there’s something for everyone.
Even grandparents and kids are learning side by side. All these moments add up to a stronger sense of belonging and friendship that reaches far beyond any single challenge.
Let’s Continue to Build a Stronger Community
This September, that spirit takes new shape as The Associated launches its 2026 Annual Campaign. The invitation is simple: say yes.
Say yes to standing with neighbors, yes to combating antisemitism, yes to caring for those who rely on a helping hand and yes to building a Jewish Baltimore where everyone belongs.
Say Yes to The Associated. associated.org/give
The BCO, founded in 1984, will perform the works of Frank Zappa, Beethoven, Mason Bates and Karena Ingram.
For more than 130 years, Sol Levinson & Bros. has been woven into the fabric of Baltimore’s Jewish community.
Led by local Israel-American cellist Amit Peled, the Mount Vernon Virtuosi aims to inspire people beyond musical enjoyment.
A former college campus activist, Veksler will speak at Chizuk Amuno on June 8 at the Ruth and Jay Lenrow Visiting Scholar-in-Residence for Combating Antisemitism.