This month, Giti Fredman officially joined the MJF team! As Community Connector, Giti will be matching folks to the Jewish experiences that are right for them—whether they’re new in town or have lived here their whole lives. Giti will also be encouraging us to bring Judaism into our home through programs like Share Shabbat. Prior to this role, Giti helped MJF throw the 500-person Great Big Challah Bake last fall. But perhaps what she’s most known for around the community is her skill at connecting people around her Shabbat table. If you haven’t met Giti—now’s your chance!

How long have you lived in the Twin Cities?

7 years—we moved here in August 2012. This is the longest we’ve lived anywhere! We’ve lived outside of DC, in Jerusalem and its suburbs, and most recently Seattle.

What do you love about it here?

There’s so much going on Jewishly for the size city that it is. We love the strong infrastructure in the eruv. We love that there’s single-gender swim at the rec center, youth groups on Shabbat, parent-child learning on Saturday night. There’s so much going on for our kids.

You’re such a natural at connecting people. Why do you think that is?

I grew up with a synagogue in my basement. Seriously! My parents built a new house and turned the basement into a synagogue. They dedicated a quarter of their brand new house to inviting other people in.

So you come by it honestly. Do you remember the first time you stepped up to be a connector in some way?

My friends and I actually used that basement to make parties for kids who needed a little extra TLC on their birthdays. One girl at my school came from Russia by herself, and a family in town took her in. I wanted her to feel celebrated, so we organized a surprise party.

That’s so nice!

Does it sound like I’m bragging? I’m not trying to brag. I just feel like a professional yenta...I’ve just never made any romantic matches.

A friendta.

Exactly!

You’re known for your Shabbat dinners. Any plans to incorporate those into your new role?

My life has been enhanced by having so many diverse, different people break bread in my home over Shabbat dinner. Something very magical happens over these dinners, and I want to share that magic with others. That’s where Share Shabbat comes in. Here’s the concept: we’ve chosen a date (February 21) and we’re issuing a social challenge to break out of your comfort zone and share Shabbat with someone with whom you’ve never shared Shabbat before. We’ve got events lined up for the week before that will help you share your best Shabbat. I can’t wait!

Welcome Giti! We can’t wait for Share Shabbat either. Learn more below:

Thursday, February 13 | Challah Bake for All! | 7–9 PM ($35)

Sunday, February 16 | Crash Course: How to Host a Shabbat Dinner | 10–11 AM (FREE)

Monday, February 17 | Family Challah Bake | 9–11 AM ($35)

Wednesday, February 19 | Prep + Schlep | 7–9 PM (Price TBA)

Friday, February 21 | SHARE SHABBAT!

Click here for tickets (pick and choose what lead up events you come to!) and for more information.

We’ll also provide Shabboxes—kits to help you set up for Shabbat, which will include challah covers, a kiddush cup, and wine.

Stay tuned for pricing details! We can’t wait to #shareshabbat with you next month—start thinking about who you want to have at your table!

Meet your new Community Connector, Giti Fredman!