Lydia McBratney, Author at Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community

Strengthening Our Future: Announcing Key Leadership Promotions at Federation

The continued strategic growth of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta (Federation) and the Atlanta Jewish Foundation (Foundation) requires the steadfast leadership of a passionate and committed team stewarding us toward our vision for a thriving and connected 21st Century Jewish Atlanta. We are thrilled to announce the promotion of two key Federation leaders who will continue to enhance how we engage, educate, and inspire philanthropy and Jewish engagement across our community.

Lindsay Kopecky has been named the Frances Bunzl Chief Advancement Officer.

Lindsay joined Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta in 2023 and most recently has served as the Vice President of the Atlanta Jewish Foundation and a key member of Federation’s Executive Leadership Team. She brings more than 20 years of expertise in the nonprofit sector with over 13 years as a frontline fundraiser in Jewish, higher education, and healthcare settings. Lindsay’s accomplished leadership has helped to significantly increase the level of investment in and support for the Foundation and Federation’s work, ensuring a long-lasting impact on the greater Atlanta community and beyond.

In this new capacity, Lindsay will continue to oversee and lead the Atlanta Jewish Foundation, along with leading all advancement, philanthropic advisory and other fundraising functions for the Federation. This holistic approach will support our continued investment in helping secure the financial future of Jewish Atlanta, provide personalized best-in-class service and strengthen our identity as Jewish Atlanta’s home for philanthropic planning aimed at sustaining our organization and community for generations to come.

Rich Walter has been named Chief Impact Officer.

Rich has been a member of Federation’s Executive Leadership Team since 2020, continuing his long and distinguished career working in Jewish educational, Israel focused and communal settings. Rich’s leadership has led to expanded Federation investment in Jewish education, participation in Jewish life, and community security. In his expanded capacity as Chief Impact Officer, Rich will broaden the scope of Federation’s community impact overseeing and developing programs and initiatives that serve Jewish Atlantans at every stage of life. This will include initiatives that serve the youngest members of our community like PJ Library to those that support philanthropic engagement and leadership development like our women’s programming and young leadership programs.

This work is instrumental in building and strengthening the pathways for developing deep and meaningful individual and community connections and ensuring that every dollar invested in our community fuels measurable and lasting change.

These leadership roles are more than just that; they represent a bold step forward in our commitment to ensuring Jewish Atlanta has the resources, vision, and structure needed to grow and thrive. With Rich and Lindsay’s leadership, we are strengthening the pathways for meaningful engagement, connection to Jewish life and philanthropy—because when we give with purpose, we build a Jewish future that is strong, resilient, and enduring

At the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, we are building a stronger, more connected Jewish future. This future is powered by philanthropy and built on a solid foundation of engaging programming supported locally across Atlanta and in Israel. A thriving and connected 21st Century Jewish Atlanta ensures that every Jew and their loved ones can access a warm and caring Jewish community, timeless Jewish wisdom, global Jewish peoplehood, and Jewish ways to do good in the world. This vision depends on a strategic and accessible philanthropic landscape that empowers every individual to give in a way that is meaningful to them.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community

Because of You, Jewish Atlantans Are Building Community Through Shabbat Dinners

A unique Shabbat tradition is thriving in Atlanta, thanks to passionate community members and the support of Federation. On Friday, January 31, over 172 hosts welcomed more than 2,000 family members, friends, and neighbors to celebrate Shabbat Across Atlanta, organized by OneTable.

Two hosts, Gabby Spatt and Valerie Chambers, transformed their homes into vibrant centers of Jewish engagement. Both credit Federation’s JGather program (formerly Gather Grants) and OneTable for providing the resources and support necessary to host these meaningful events.

For Gabby, Shabbat is about preserving Jewish traditions and building community. “Shabbat is a time to disconnect. It’s this time to relax, to do something that is good for our soul, to be with the people that we want to be with,” she shared. Shabbat is a tradition she and her husband, Mark, are passionate about passing on to their son. “It’s how we grew up, and it’s how we want our son to grow up.”

For Shabbat Across Atlanta, Gabby organized an Après Shabbat Mahjong-themed event, where guests arrived in ski attire and enjoyed warm beverages like hot chocolate and apple cider, along with warm cheeses and a gummy platter. With four Mahjong tables in play, the space featured snowflake balloons, ski goggles, and even a special outdoor Mahjong set donated for the occasion. When Gabby’s oven broke, a friend stepped in to bake a chocolate chip snow-dusted challah. “It was a special moment for me,” Gabby reflected, noting how the event embodied the community spirit she hopes to foster.

Driven by a passion for Jewish heritage, Gabby launched Mahji Mazels, a project raising awareness of Mahjong’s Jewish roots. And she didn’t stop there. Since October 2023, she and her co-founder have taught nearly 1,100 people how to play through Let’s Rack and Roll Mahjong. She also launched the Mazel card, supported by Federation, to further spread this knowledge. Federation’s JGather program has encouraged her to think bigger, creatively engaging guests at her Shabbat dinners and Mahjong tables.

Valerie Chambers also emphasized the importance of Shabbat. While she has long hosted Shabbat meals for Kennesaw State University alumni, Federation’s support has made it easier for her to provide a welcoming space for young professionals new to their careers and Jewish journeys. “The Gather Grant helps take the pressure off,” she said. “It allows me to focus on creating a beautiful, meaningful experience without the stress of funding everything myself.”

Valerie’s Shabbat dinners are known for home-cooked meals and warm hospitality. “I love cooking, and it’s something that brings me joy,” she said. “But more than just the food, it’s about creating a space where people can connect with each other and with Jewish traditions.” Her gatherings have also become a place for old friends to reconnect. One guest, Kelly, a childhood friend of Valerie’s, had grown up with a Jewish father but had never fully embraced Jewish practices. After attending the Shabbat dinner, she shared that she was learning more than ever before. “It’s really special to me to offer that opportunity for someone to experience Jewish community in a new way,” Valerie said.

A highlight of Valerie’s evening was the use of Oneg cards, provided by Federation, which feature thought-provoking questions about the weekly Parsha. “These cards spark conversation and allow everyone to engage in a deeper way,” she explained. “It’s a wonderful way to bring Judaism into our homes and invite others to learn and connect.”

Beyond the dinner table, Valerie’s gatherings have sparked friendships, strengthened bonds, and even led to love connections. Admitting how much she enjoys playing matchmaker, she laughed, “It’s the most Jewish thing I could do.”

Gabby and Valerie’s Shabbat gatherings highlight the power of community and the importance of fostering connections within Jewish Atlanta. With the support of Federation and OneTable, these gatherings foster deep connections, ensuring that the warmth of Shabbat extends far beyond a single meal.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community

Because of You, Federation is Restoring Hope & Rebuilding Lives in Israel’s Youth

On Thursday, December 5, community members gathered for a meaningful breakfast meeting with ImpactIsrael, one of the Jewish Federation’s global allocation partners, to learn about their critical work with at-risk youth at Yemin Orde Youth Village. The event offered a powerful update on how the Village continues to provide stability, healing, and hope to Israeli teens in the wake of the ongoing war.

The featured speaker, Boaz Schwartz, Director of Yemin Orde Youth Village, shared personal insights from the front lines. Boaz, who served for seven months in reserve duty as a Lieutenant Colonel of a tank battalion following the October 7 attacks, returned full-time to Yemin Orde at the start of this school year. He spoke movingly about the challenges youth face amid the current conflict and how the Village fosters resilience through the Village Way—a holistic educational philosophy that has transformed the lives of over 400 teens.

“I’ve seen firsthand the toll this war has taken on our youth,” Boaz remarked. “But I also see incredible strength. Every day, we help them not only survive but thrive—building dreams for their future and for a brighter, more united Israel.”

Many teens at Yemin Orde had already fled violence and instability in Ukraine just two years ago, only to face another war with the attacks on October 7. To support these youth, the Federation provided additional funding through its Ukraine Emergency Fund, ensuring they receive the specialized care they need during this difficult time.

“It filled us with optimism to see how deeply the Atlanta Jewish community cares about the at-risk youth at Yemin Orde,” said Robert Arogeti, a national board member of ImpactIsrael. “The community’s commitment ensures these teens have the resources to overcome their past, meet today’s challenges, and fulfill their potential for success.”

Lewis Shubin and Robert Arogeti, both national board members of ImpactIsrael, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to introduce ImpactIsrael to a new generation of engaged Federation leadership in Atlanta. For over four decades, Atlanta has been at the forefront of supporting Yemin Orde and ImpactIsrael’s mission. Notably, Atlanta was the first community in the Federation system to make a special allocation to Yemin Orde in the early 1980s. Today, more than twenty Federations across the country continue this legacy as annual supporters of ImpactIsrael.

About ImpactIsrael
ImpactIsrael is the philanthropic arm of Yemin Orde Youth Village and Village Way Educational Initiatives. Its mission is to empower Israel’s at-risk youth, transforming them into successful, well-adjusted members of society through value-driven education and support.

About Yemin Orde Youth Village
Located in the Carmel Mountains, south of Haifa, Yemin Orde is home to over 400 at-risk Jewish teens from Israel and around the world. Through the Village Way methodology, Yemin Orde equips youth—many of whom are survivors of trauma, neglect, or instability—with the tools to become empowered leaders and build a better future.

The breakfast meeting served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact we can make in the lives of those in need, especially during such challenging times. Thank you to all who attended and continue to support ImpactIsrael and Yemin Orde Youth Village.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, Federation News

Because of You, Interfaith Couples Are Getting Involved in Jewish ATL

On Saturday, December 21, a group of interfaith couples and young Jewish professionals gathered for a meaningful Havdalah ceremony and dinner, supported by an Interfaith Connector Gather Grant.

Despite the chilly weather, everyone came together outdoors to mark the transition from Shabbat, sharing reflections and connection under the night sky.

Afterward, they warmed up with dinner at a cozy restaurant in Cabbagetown, enjoying great conversation and community. Federation’s Interfaith Connector is excited to announce that plans for the next gathering—a Shabbat dinner—are already underway. Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and build community!

“I am Jewish, and my husband is not. When we moved to Atlanta last year, the only person we knew was our realtor. The many welcoming and accessible interfaith programs that we have found in the Atlanta Jewish community have been an amazing catalyst for building a community of our own. It’s been very meaningful for me to build friendships with Jewish people, but at tables where my non-Jewish husband belongs,” said Abby Vankudre, who coordinated this event. “I am grateful to the Federation for making Gather Grants available to us, because they provide the spark that you need to get people to come together despite busy schedules. I had a great time putting together this last-minute pre-Hanukkah Havdalah dinner and I’m looking forward to more events in 2025!”

At Atlanta’s Interfaith Connector, Federation’s mission is to support interfaith couples and families by fostering an inclusive, understanding, and accepting community within the Jewish tradition. Federation is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where every family feels valued and connected, no matter their background or faith journey.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community

Spotlighting JInnovation: Meet the Newest Federation JInnovation Initiative Grantees

As we step into 2025, we are thrilled to spotlight five incredible organizations recently funded through the Federation’s JInnovation Initiative. These new grantees exemplify the power of community-driven ideas and the meaningful impact of innovative programming.

Introducing Our Newest JInnovation Initiative Grantees

We are proud to support the following organizations, each making a significant impact in our community:

The Sandwich Project: Addressing food insecurity through grassroots initiatives that provide nourishment and empower communities.
Creating Connected Communities: Empowering Jewish young adults to mentor and guide teens through a Leadership Development Program that fosters relationships and implements impactful curriculum.
3GATL: Preserving Holocaust education by amplifying the voices and stories of third-generation survivors.
Building Community Through Conversations: Facilitating meaningful interfaith dialogue and fostering stronger, more connected relationships.

Spotlight on 3GATL: Preserving Holocaust Education for Future Generations

At the forefront of Holocaust education, 3GATL is dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of third-generation survivors. This dynamic organization fosters connections between descendants of survivors, honoring the legacies of their grandparents in powerful ways.

“Starting 3GATL has been an honor,” says Emily Yehezkel. “Our community is looking to connect with each other and honor their grandparents’ legacies in real, meaningful ways. It is such a great group of grandchildren and even children of survivors. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for our group!”

For members like Lilli Jennison, this mission is deeply personal:

“Being part of 3GATL is a profound honor. My grandfather survived the Holocaust, and while it was often too painful for him to share his experiences, this group allows me to carry his legacy forward. Connecting with other third-generation survivors, honoring our families’ stories, and supporting the survivor community fills me with purpose and deep gratitude.”

By empowering third-generation survivors to share their stories, 3GATL ensures the lessons of the Holocaust remain relevant for generations to come.

Spotlight on Building Community Through Conversations: Fostering Understanding Through Dialogue

Building Community Through Conversations (BCTC) is creating meaningful interfaith dialogue in Metro Atlanta. Founded in the wake of October 7th by two Jewish women, BCTC fosters “kind and curious” conversations in safe spaces, building understanding and inspiring action. In a time of rising antisemitism and misinformation, BCTC provides a critical platform for neighbors, friends, and families to engage in open, honest dialogue.

In just nine months, BCTC has hosted seven successful events across Sandy Springs, East Cobb, North Decatur, and Peachtree Corners. Participants have shared powerful feedback:

“A better understanding of the Middle East has led to more educated conversations on Israel with my kids and friends.”
“As a Christian, it feels good to have a safe, non-political space to support my Jewish friends and neighbors.”

With its eighth event scheduled for January 2025, BCTC is expanding its outreach. Thanks to the Federation’s JInnovation Grant, BCTC is growing its visibility and empowering even more individuals to engage in these vital conversations.

Beyond Funding: Strengthening Organizations for Long-Term Success

The JInnovation Initiative doesn’t just provide funding—it offers an incubation model to help organizations launch and sustain impactful programs. Through partnerships with Catchafire and the Alloy Foundation, grantees gain access to skilled volunteers, expert consultations, and tailored philanthropy planning. These resources strengthen operations, refine missions, and ensure long-term success.

This is just the beginning. Stay tuned for updates on the journeys of past recipients and the continued impact of our community partners.

To all JInnovation Initiative Donors: Thank you. Your generosity fuels groundbreaking initiatives, strengthens our community, and empowers organizations to create lasting change.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, Caring

Because of You, Partners Fund Can Support Live-Saving Organizations like the JDC

On Thursday, December 12, Federation had the privilege of hosting our partners from the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for a day of meaningful dialogue and learning.

The day began with an inspiring presentation to Federation’s professional team by Roni Lior, Deputy Director of JDC Israel’s Ashalim Division and Anna Allen, JDC Director of Strategic Partnerships. Roni shared powerful insights into JDC’s impactful initiatives across Israel, particularly in the northern region, as well as the special projects supported by Federation’s Israel Emergency Campaign, making special note of Atlanta’s contribution of $250,000 for emergency kits that have been distributed in northern communities.

Later in the evening, the delegation engaged with our global allocations committee for an in-depth discussion about JDC’s critical programs. The presentations highlighted the resilience, innovation, and dedication that define JDC’s work, especially during the challenges of the past year.

Roni Lior and Anna Allen from JDC provided an eye-opening exploration of the organization’s global impact. As a long-time Federation partner, JDC embodies the principle of Aravut—the idea that all Jews are responsible for one another.

“JDC has been doing incredible work in Israel forever, and certainly since October 7. But not just in Israel—JDC supports Jewish communities across 70 countries,” shared Roni. Known as the “global Jewish 911,” JDC responds swiftly to crises, provides aid to vulnerable Jews, builds sustainable communities, and develops future Jewish leaders.

One notable highlight was the support JDC provides in Belarus, which is part of Atlanta’s longstanding partnership in the region. “Your core allocations allow us to move swiftly during emergencies, but they also let us support vulnerable Jews in calmer times,” Anna explained.

JDC’s mission extends beyond Jewish communities through its GRID program, which leverages Israeli technology for global disaster relief, exemplifying the value of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world.

Whether responding to immediate needs in Ukraine or fostering thriving communities like Budapest, JDC’s mission is unwavering: saving Jewish lives and reviving Jewish life.

It’s not only our privilege, but our duty to ensure every Jew and Jewish community has the resources to live in safety and dignity,” Roni emphasized.

Your ongoing support of the Federation makes this lifesaving work possible. Thank you for being a vital part of this impactful global network.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, Federation News, Shinshinim Atlanta

Because of You, Families Like the Libowskys Experience the Joy of Bringing Israel Into Their Home

Written by both Staci and Joel Libowsky

This is the story of Staci and Joel Libowsky and their family, who decided to get out of their comfort zone and become a host family for a Shinshin.

The Schoenbaum Shinshinim program brings Israel and Jewish Atlanta together. Shinshinim are 18-year-old high school graduates from all over Israel who complete a year of service in Jewish Atlanta, fostering connections to Israel for community members of all ages.

The program is funded by the generosity of Schoenbaum family in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the Jewish Agency for Israel.

In 2023-2024, our family had the incredible experience of hosting Matan Moshe, an 18-year-old Shinshin from Israel. Matan was born in Givat Shmuel but currently lives in Kiryat Ono. He’s the youngest of four. Matan joined our family in Dunwoody, and over the course of a year, he became like one of our own.

Initially, we had mixed feelings about hosting. We were approached with the opportunity several times, but we hesitated, especially our two sons, who weren’t thrilled about a “stranger” living in our home. However, our daughter was excited from the start, and after a little convincing, we decided to go for it. The boys, to our surprise, warmed up to Matan within minutes of meeting him.

I (Joel) had some personal reservations, too. We had never had anyone else live with us, and I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about another person in the house. But from the moment Matan arrived, all my worries vanished. It quickly became clear that this was going to be an amazing year. Matan fit into our family so naturally that having him with us felt effortless. It was less of a commitment than we had anticipated—he just became a part of our daily lives, joining us for meals or hanging out whenever it suited him.

One of the most surprising aspects of the experience was seeing the different connections each of our children formed with Matan. They each had their own unique bond with him. Our daughter loved making TikToks with him, while our son Dylan enjoyed their deep conversations. Our eldest, Noah, took a little longer to warm up, but watching their relationship grow was incredibly special.

Being Jewish connected us with Matan on a deep level, yet we also discovered fascinating cultural differences. Despite our Ashkenazi roots and his Mizrahi background, we bonded over our shared values, and those conversations about Israel and life were moments we’ll always treasure. Matan’s energy and magnetism also had a huge impact on our year. He became a well-known figure in our community—even our neighbors and his students at Davis Academy grew fond of him, as he made friends wherever he went.

He has an incredible energy and magnetism, and a special way of connecting with everyone, everywhere we went—whether it was at Davis or even at a neighborhood basketball game. It didn’t matter if it was our closest friends or new acquaintances, he made everyone feel like family. His presence truly enriched our lives, bringing us unexpected joy and connection. It was a year we’ll always cherish.

When it was time to say goodbye, our entire family felt the weight of his departure. Matan left each of us a heartfelt letter, and we all shed tears and felt a real loss when we had to say goodbye. We all cherish those letters, reminders of the amazing year we shared.

In fact, Matan also flew in for our daughter’s Bat Mitzvah in November. Her parsha and D’var Torah were all about welcoming guests, and she talked about hosting Matan and what it meant to our family.

Would we do it again? Absolutely. We’ve talked about hosting again in the future, especially after our sons are older. This experience was truly life-changing for all of us, and we highly recommend it to anyone considering it. Opening your heart and home to a Shinshin is a unique way to build a connection that will impact your family forever.

Know a family who wants to create lifelong relationships and has at least one child between the ages of 10 and 18? Federation needs 16 families every single year to step up and host!

Interested in being a Shinshinim Host Family? Federation is currently seeking families for second semester starting in January. Please contact Amy Fox at afox@jewishatlanta.org.

To all Federation supporters:

Thank you.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, Federation News, Shinshinim Atlanta

Lifelong Connections & Lasting Impact as a Shinshinim Host

The Schoenbaum Shinshinim Program bridges the gap between Israel and Jewish Atlanta. Shinshinim (which is a Hebrew acronym – Shin Shin, standing for Shnat Sherut, translating to ‘a year of service’ in Hebrew) are 18-year-old high school graduates from across Israel who spend a year of service in Jewish Atlanta, building meaningful connections with community members of all ages.

For anyone seeking a life-changing opportunity to support Israel from Atlanta and form lifelong relationships, the Schoenbaum Shinshinim Host Family Program offers an incredible experience. These young ambassadors need a home away from home—a supportive, welcoming environment—and the Dorfman family decided the time was right for them to get involved.

Lara and Adam Dorfman, current Shinshinim hosts, have opened their home to Dana Boytner, who hails from Modiin, Israel.

Reflecting on the decision, Lara shared, “This has been on our radar for years, but it felt like the right time. We felt our family was in a good spot, and with everything going on in the world, it just seemed right.”

The Dorfman family, with two children ages 11 and 14, have embraced this experience wholeheartedly, and Federation has made the process for them both simple and thoughtful.

“I just reached out to Amy Fox, Federations’ JumpSpark Navigating Parenthood Coordinator, and it was seamless from there,” Lara explained.

Federation’s careful approach to matching families with Shinshinim ensured a great fit; Dana’s interests aligned perfectly with the Dorfmans’.

“Dana was involved in the Reform youth movement in Israel—something that’s not very common there, but it resonated with us,” said Adam. “We are also active at our Reform synagogue, and we share a love for music and the arts.”

Living with Dana has enriched the Dorfmans’ daily life, from discussions about Hebrew to sharing Israeli meals.

“I love how she’s shifted the conversation at our dinner table,” Lara said. “We talk about Hebrew words, foods, and culture, creating memories I know will last a lifetime.”

Their 10-year-old daughter’s feelings have been especially touching. “She asked, ‘What if I miss her when she’s gone?’ It was such a tender reminder of the bond they’re forming,” Lara said, her eyes filling with tears.

For families considering hosting, Lara’s advice is simple: “It’s crucial to have the mental space and openness to welcome someone into your family. You’ll get out of it what you put in.”

As they look to the future, the Dorfmans are already planning to visit Dana in Israel. “This experience has truly been life changing,” they said.

Interested in being a Shinshinim Host Family? Federation is currently seeking families for second semester starting in January. Please contact Amy Fox at afox@jewishatlanta.org.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, Federation News

Because of You, Michelle and Dan Found Their Happily Ever After

My name is Michelle, and I love attending Jewish events and meeting new people. I was excited to attend Ramah Darom’s summer camp to connect with new people and have a good time among friends.

My name is Dan, and I attended the event as part of my healing process after a breakup, which was encouraged by my local Rabbi. I was saying yes to everything, just trying to get out and be part of the community again.

At the weekend retreat, we were assigned to the volleyball leg of the camp relay race. Afterward, we exchanged a few words, and then went our separate ways. The interaction was brief but left an impression.

After that weekend, we encountered each other at various Jewish events in Atlanta, many of which were supported by Federation. From a Kosher BBQ Festival to a Simchat Torah celebration, and eventually a party hosted by our mutual friend, these gatherings became the backdrop for our growing connection.

Seeing each other at different events made us feel more comfortable with each other. It was like we were building a connection without even trying, just by being part of the same Jewish community.

Federation created opportunities for new relationships. Without these community events, it might have been much harder to connect. Meeting each other through Federation events made everything smoother.

Giving back to the Jewish community and Federation is something we’re committed to. We want others to have the same positive experiences we had and hope to contribute to the community so that others can benefit from these events, too.

We dated for about a year before moving in together with our dog, Bailey, in Midtown/Morningside Atlanta. We were engaged on Christmas Day on the Danube River in Europe and got married this past Labor Day weekend.

To everyone who helps provide opportunities for young Jewish singles to meet and connect, and sometimes, fall in love, thank you.

Lydia McBratney In Atlanta Jewish Community, JBaby, Jewish Journeys, PJ Library Atlanta

Chloe & Ronnie’s Story on Finding Community with JBaby

Moving to a new neighborhood can be daunting, especially when raising young children. For two mothers, Chloe and Ronni, the transition to Sandy Springs was much smoother thanks to the supportive and vibrant community they discovered through JBaby, a branch of PJ Library, that is Federation’s program for our youngest community members and their parents (and expecting parents).

Initially feeling isolated during the pandemic with their first children, Chloe and Ronni were thrilled to find JBaby’s outdoor and virtual programs, which provided a safe space to meet other parents and form lasting friendships. These connections continue to prove invaluable as they bond over shared experiences and help each other navigate the challenges of early parenthood.

The impact of JBaby’s programming went beyond socializing; it fostered a deep sense of belonging and community.

Although Chloe and Ronni both took part in JBaby when their oldest children were young, they didn’t cross paths or become friends until they both attended the recent Tu B’Mahj event, a Tu B’Av celebration sponsored by PJ Library Atlanta in Sandy Springs. Thoughtfully arranged seating by neighborhood and mahjong skill level made it easy for them to connect with others in similar life stages.

“It’s been so nice just talking to other moms who are going through very similar life stages as myself,” Chloe shared, emphasizing how much the support from these connections meant during early parenthood.

JBaby is a branch of PJ Library that connects expecting parents and families with children ages 0-2, provides parents access to specialists for advice, and offers Jewish community resources on family-friendly programs, events, and activities in your area. To learn more about JBaby programming, click here.