Our Story
The Pearlstone Center 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. After nearly 20 years of introducing Jewish people to their heritage and traditions through various programs and events, the physical retreat center known today as the Pearlstone Center was opened in the picturesque suburbs of Baltimore, Maryland in 2001. Several years later, Pearlstone Center launched its Jewish educational farm to provide a hands-on nature experience for its community.
In living Jack’s legacy, we 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.
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
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.National Recognition
We are proud to be recognized nationally for the innovative environmental impact we are making on our community.
