When Dante Barboy decided to become a Community Connector last fall, he had a simple vision: create spaces where young Jewish adults could connect over everyday, fun activities.
“I wanted to build community with other Jewish people through everyday activities,” explains Dante. “It could be a concert, movie, or happy hour. The list goes on.”
The Community Connector program, run by the Macks Jewish Connection Network (an agency of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore), connects people with trained community builders like Dante who organize gatherings for Jews in Baltimore. Connectors bring people together through low-barrier activities—from hiking to Ravens watch parties—that prioritize connection over commitment.
For Jason Ellis, a pilot who moved to Baltimore seven months ago, the approach works. “Showing up to someone’s house you don’t know for a Shabbat dinner with nobody you know is intimidating,” he explains. “But going to a bar for a Ravens watch party? Worst case, I grab a beer and see how the vibe is. It’s a lower entry point.”
That accessibility matters more than ever. Both Dante and Jason describe how October 7 changed the landscape for young Jewish adults, many of whom suddenly felt disconnected from non-Jewish friends who didn’t understand their experience.
“A lot of people lost community after October 7,” Dante reflects. “We’re not bonding because of pain, but it unites us. Then we change the tune and do something fun to forget about the negative stuff and enjoy each other’s presence.”
For Jason, the impact has been tangible. Through connector events, he’s built a tight-knit friend group that plays pickleball together, recently traveled to Israel together and simply enjoys being around other young Jews navigating life in Baltimore.
Dante’s advice for anyone curious? “Hit us up because what we’re doing is different from anything that’s ever been done.”
Ready to connect? Email dantebarboy@gmail.com or visit thejewishnetwork.org/community/ to meet Baltimore’s Community Connectors and find your people.
