A little flour. A little water. A little time. And somehow, a room begins to feel like home.

Last week, the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s Women’s Council brought women together for a challah bake rooted in tradition, connection and the simple joy of being together at the newly renovated Jewish Association on Aging’s Waterside Landing personal care residence.

Around the tables, women kneaded dough, braided loaves and shared conversation. Some came with years of challah-making behind them. Others were trying it for the first time. Together, they took part in a ritual that has filled Jewish homes for generations: one that still has the power to slow us down, bring us close and remind us what community can feel like.

"I had the pleasure of co-chairing this event alongside instructor Sue Berman Kress, who also happens to be Federation’s Community Campaign Chair. We both feel deep connections to many Jewish traditions and mitzvot, including baking challah and caring for our community’s seniors."
-Alisa Oppenheim, Member of the Women’s Council Social/Volunteer Committee

The evening was about more than leaving with challah to bake at home. It was about making Jewish life feel accessible, warm and shared. These are the moments the Women’s Council helps create: meaningful, personal and rooted in Jewish life.

Because sometimes community starts with a program. Sometimes it starts with a conversation.
And sometimes it starts with dough.

That’s tradition.
That’s community.
That’s Federation.

Learn more about Women's events and programs.