When Jana Rae moved to Edmonton in 2022, she and her husband were looking for a place to put down roots and start a family.  

Soon after arriving, Jana found out she was pregnant with her first child. Like many new parents, she was also searching for something else: community. 

Today, Jana is helping other families find that same sense of belonging as the new parent connector for Shalom Baby, a Jewish Federation of Edmonton program that supports families with babies and young children through social events, playgroups, and community-building opportunities. The program has connected dozens of families since its launch and continues to grow through initiatives such as PJ Library and family programming.  

For Jana, the role is deeply personal because she understands what it feels like to be new, both to a city and to parenthood. 

"I feel really grateful that I get to be the person to reach out to other people and welcome them," she says. "It's hard to be the new person somewhere. I want to make that as easy for people as possible." 

As parent connector, Jana welcomes new parents, helps connect them through a WhatsApp group, delivers welcome packages to families with new babies, and encourages participation in Shalom Baby events. But the role is about much more than organizing activities 

"I remember being told, 'You can't be Jewish alone,' and that's so true," says Jana. "You need your community." 

That belief guides Jana's approach to the role. She says Shalom Baby creates opportunities for families to build friendships in a Jewish environment through shared experiences and traditions. 

"I think it's safe and it's warm and it's welcoming," she says. "You're among family." 

Those relationships can be especially valuable for young parents navigating the challenges of raising children while building friendships as adults.  

"It's always nice to chat with other parents while your kids get to run around and play," says Jana. "For me, [as a stay-at-home mom], that's one of the nicest parts." 

Through regular events and online conversations, Shalom Baby continues to bring young families together. Jana hopes even more parents will discover the program in the years ahead. 

"I'm hoping we can continue welcoming new people and keeping them engaged in the Jewish community," she says. 

As Edmonton's Jewish community looks ahead to the opening of the new Oshry | Kipnes Jewish Community Centre, Jana is excited about what a dedicated gathering space could mean for young families. 

"It feels more permanent," she says. "It feels like we'll have a home." 

But for Jana, belonging is about more than a building. It starts with a simple invitation, a shared conversation, or a welcoming smile at a community event. 

"It's hard making friends as an adult," she says. "Just inviting someone for coffee, setting up a playdate, or creating opportunities where people can show up with no pressure can make a big difference." 

Through Shalom Baby, Jana hopes every family feels they have a place in Edmonton's Jewish community and people they can turn to as they navigate parenthood together. 

The spirit of connection and belonging will be on full display at Shalom Baby's fifth birthday celebration on Sunday, August 9. Families with babies and young children are invited to come together for an afternoon of playground fun, spray park activities, crafts, snacks, and the chance to meet other parents and children in a warm, welcoming environment. Find out more information on our website.