“Baltimore is a very tight community,” says Beth Blanco who moved to Baltimore in 1985 and says it took her years not to feel like a newcomer. “It can be difficult to break in.” Two years ago, Beth decided to slowly change that cycle. She took on the role of Shalom Baltimore co-chair with Joanie Greenberg. Together, they have re-invented the program to make the transition into Jewish Baltimore a little easier.

We welcome newcomers personally, with a friendly face and information catered to who we know they are and what will be most helpful,” she says. The program has also launched social initiatives for adults, young adults and families in neighborhoods like Downtown, Towson, Lutherville, Timonium and Roland Park.