PJ Library will expand Shalom Baby programming with 2 new Parent Connectors

PJ Library Minneapolis is excited to announce that it has added to its popular Shalom Baby programming this year with the addition of two new PJ Parent Connectors, who are leading bi-weekly gatherings for families with children ages 0-2 this fall.

The two positions are funded by a PJ Library Implementing Partner Engagement Grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation to expand and deepen engagement opportunities for families raising Jewish children.

“We’re so excited to kick off this unique opportunity to connect families with young children in the Jewish community,” said Carrie Fink, PJ Library Program Coordinator. Activities will include a semi-annual Shalom Baby Shower, ongoing baby programs, monthly playgroups, and parent nights out offered both on weekdays and weekends.

The two new PJ Parent Connectors are Barb Herstig and Sadie Rubin. Barb lives with her husband, 18-month-old daughter, Goldie, and dog, Winnie, in Minnetonka. They belong to Adath Jeshurun Congregation and love hitting every PJ Library Shalom Baby Circle Time, as well as the many other amazing activities for the 0-2-year-olds around town. Barb is also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, who has her own practice in Minnetonka.

Sadie moved to Minneapolis in 2016 after spending four years in Richmond, Virginia, where she founded and ran an intergenerational art program. She arrived in the Twin Cities with her husband, Leo, and their dog, Patterson, for what they believed would be a temporary stay – but they loved Minneapolis so much that they’ve settled in to establish roots! The Rubin/Laub family expanded to include Elliot Louisa in June 2018.

Barb and Sadie will be reaching out to families with little ones ages 0-2 to invite them out for coffee or a playdate. You can also get a chance to meet them (and their toddlers) at our next Shalom Baby Circle Time on Sunday, Nov. 24. They are looking forward to spending time with you!

PJ Library Minneapolis is a program of Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis’ (JFCS). It is an international award-winning program designed to strengthen Jewish identity by sending Jewish-content books and music on a monthly basis to children from age 6 months through 8 years. PJ Library also hosts regular community events for families. Shalom Baby welcomes families of newborns and babies, up to age 2, to the Jewish community.