The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore and Pearlstone Center Launch OneTable in Baltimore to Help People Build Community Through Shabbat

New Offering Will Help People Ages 21-40 Create Weekly Dinner Practices That Add Meaning to Their Lives 

(Baltimore) – OneTable, a national non-profit organization that empowers people in their 20s and 30s to envision new rituals and build community through Shabbat dinner, is coming to Baltimore, thanks to a partnership between The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore and Pearlstone Center.

“We are so excited to be working in partnership with Pearlstone in bringing OneTable to Baltimore,” said Myrna Cardin, Chair of The Associated’s Jewish Life Lead Team.  “OneTable in Baltimore reflects the very best of our community as a coordinated effort using our local resources to create authentic Jewish life.”

Through OneTable Baltimore, individuals will be able to select two brand-new OneTable Nourishment options for Shabbat dinner, in addition to the current OneTable Nourishment menu. Pearlstone’s food honors the bounty of the seasons, the traditions of our ancestors, and the integrity of sustainable agriculture. New options include dinner from Pearlstone’s farm-to-table menu to pick up and serve at home and dinner from Pearlstone’s farm-to-table menu to eat on Pearlstone’s campus.

“The Associated and Pearlstone see a great opportunity to help more people create Shabbat dinner and ritual in ways that feel authentic and sustainable,” adds MJ Kurs-Lasky, OneTable’s Director of Partnerships + Jewish Learning. “Young adults are spiritually connected and want a community. We’re able to help them look for those beyond institutional walls.”

OneTable’s DIY approach to Shabbat—tailored support, coaching, and online resources to make ritual personally meaningful, plus financial boosts in the form of “Nourishment Credits” if cost is a barrier for hosts—enable the host and their guests to create the dinner and community experience that is most meaningful to them.

There are about 35,000 Jews ages 21-40 in Baltimore; The Associated estimates that only about three percent are engaged in Jewish life locally. But OneTable has a record of success in nearby Washington, DC with significant growth in recent years: Since 2018, 1,400 DC dinner hosts have created 8,000 dinners with 57,000 seats (people, including repeat guests) at the table.

“Shabbat dinners have traditionally provided a safe and sacred space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together for meaningful connections,” continues Myrna Cardin. “In partnership with Pearlstone and OneTable, we’re providing easy access to family-style, farm-to-table Shabbat meals and resources for young adults, and we hope to foster a sense of community and a feeling of inclusivity for all.”

Individuals can apply to be a OneTable host at onetable.org/hosting. Pearlstone will be available to cater Shabbat dinners on Jan. 14, Feb. 18, March 18, April 15, May 20, and June 3. Additional 2022 dates will be announced soon!

Nationally, just this year, OneTable has supported 3,500 unique hosts across the country in creating nearly 23,000 dinners and 128,000 seats at the table for over 33,000 people 21-40 years old.

About the Partnership

OneTable: OneTable empowers people who don’t yet have a consistent Shabbat dinner practice to build one that feels authentic, sustainable, and valuable. OneTable is a national nonprofit funded to support people (21-39ish) looking to find and share this powerful experience. We envision a whole generation of slowing down, joining together, unplugging from the week, creating intention in their lives, and building meaningful communities. onetable.org

The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore strengthens and nurtures Jewish life by engaging and supporting community partners in Greater Baltimore, Israel, and around the world. IMPACT, The Associated’s young adult division, inspires community connections, philanthropy, and leadership for Jewish community members between the ages of 22-39 at all stages of life.

Pearlstone Center ignites Jewish passion, enabling and inspiring Jewish life through a beautiful retreat center, sustainable farm, and dynamic Jewish educational programs.

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