Our Story
The Pearlstone Story
In 1982, Richard Pearlstone founded The Jack Pearlstone Institute for Living Judaism in partnership with The Associated in memory of his father, Jack, who had a deep commitment to the Jewish future characterized by vision, innovation and energy. In living Jack’s legacy, we continue to create common ground for individuals, groups, and families connecting through retreats, conferences, field trips, volunteering, multicultural programs, fellowships, workshops, and celebrations. We embrace everyone with warmth and sincerity and strive to facilitate the interconnectedness of people no matter their background or affiliation.
In 2001, after nearly 20 years of introducing Jewish people to their heritage and traditions through various programs and events, the physical retreat center known as the Pearlstone Center was opened on seven acres in the picturesque suburbs of Baltimore, Maryland. In 2006, Pearlstone launched its community educational farm (known at the time as Kayam) providing a space for hands-on experiential outdoor education for the community.
In 2017, The Pearlstone Campus is born! A transition for the former Camp Milldale leads the The Associated to delegate campus management to Pearlstone, expanding our scope to the entire 180-acre property. Pearlstone is recognized as one of the most innovative Jewish organizations in North America known for beautiful facilities, outstanding farm-to-table cuisine and loving, warm staff and customer service.
Who are we?
While the best way to know Pearlstone is to spend time on our campus, these resources provide a glimpse
Our Values
Interconnectedness
We create intimate and personal connections between people, no matter their background or affiliation.
Genuine and open
We embrace all with loving warmth.
Simplify and focus
We help people place emphasis on the fundamental elements of life.
Foster spiritual experiences
Our environment and programs integrate body, mind, heart and soul.
Connect people and earth
We connect people to the land, so they value the connection between both; Adam and Adamah.
Joyous, hands-on experiences
We provide impactful educational experiences.
Bring Jewish values to life
To enable people to connect to Jewish roots and inspire them to live those values.
Environmentally friendly
We embody, teach and inspire the practice of environmental sustainability.We connect people to the land so they can understand and value the connection between people and earth and easily focus on the fundamental elements of life. We teach through motivating, joyous, and hands-on experiences.
The environment that we create, and the programming that we offer, fosters memorable spiritual experiences and ignites vibrant Jewish life.
Pearlstone Center by the Numbers
National Recognition
We are proud to be recognized nationally for the innovative environmental impact we are making on our community.
