The aroma of yeast and sugar filled the air at the Boulder JCC on Thursday, November 6, as hundreds gathered for the 10th Annual Great Big Challah Bake. The incredible demand for this milestone event was apparent even before the doors opened, with registration hitting capacity well in advance.
More than just a baking event, the evening served as a powerful reminder of community strength, tradition, and shared joy, particularly after Executive Director Jonathan Lev acknowledged that it has been a “challenging year for the community, for the world, and for the JCC.” Addressing the eager crowd, Lev emphasized that what makes this event GREAT is not the challah, but the people, the community coming together.
The sentiment of resilience was palpable. Lev noted how the community appreciates everyone “standing with us, coming together in times of sorrow and also of joy.” The Challah Bake, hosted by the Women of the J, offered a meaningful space for connection and the comfort of tradition, a central element of Jewish Sabbath and holiday celebrations.
Attendees were ready to experience the joy of creating challah by learning to prepare and braid the traditional dough from scratch, then taking it home to bake for Shabbat. Later, while the dough rose, participants paused for a dessert break, cementing the communal and celebratory atmosphere.
This year’s event was especially significant, as it marked the 10th anniversary of the program’s offering, having even adapted to a Zoom format during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep the tradition alive.
The roots of the incredible program were celebrated by honoring its founder, dedicated community member Eti Young. Lev praised Young as a fantastic baker, loving friend, a fervent supporter of Israel, and a professional pursuer of justice.
Eti Young, alongside co-chair Sabina Zolot, was thanked for their leadership in helming the 2026 Challah Bake Committee.
A core component of the evening was the spirit of tzedakah (charity). The event actively encouraged participants to Give Back by supporting a partnership with Moe’s Broadway Bagel to provide challah to community members facing food insecurity, a beautiful way to spread the joy of Shabbat beyond the JCC walls.
The massive success of the evening highlighted the immense volunteer effort required. Dozens of dedicated community members dedicate time every year. Attendees who had volunteered in any capacity as table captains, committee members, or for setup, cleanup, or ingredient measuring.
View photos from the 10th Annual Challah Bake here.
The Boulder JCC and the Women of the J extend a heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors whose generosity underwrites the 10th Annual Great Big Challah Bake:
- Brenda Burnell and Andrew Halperin
- Debbie and Robert Garelick, HomeSmart Realty
- Lisa and Jeff Hainline
- Moe’s Broadway Bagel (also thanked for their partnership in the Give Back initiative)
Women of the J Programs are Underwritten in Honor of Marc H. Monheimer by the Mervyn L. Brenner Foundation.