Houston, Texas, November 28, 2025
Dori Jezmir and Eric Stevelman have inaugurated Houston’s first Moishe House Pod, an initiative aiming to foster connections among young Jewish adults. The program features two co-residents who will host monthly events to promote cultural engagement. The local initiative encourages grassroots participation and highlights the significant role young leaders can play in enhancing community ties. Residents can expect a variety of fun activities, including themed dinners and social gatherings, fostering a vibrant Jewish culture in Houston.
First Moishe House Pod Energizes Houston’s Jewish Community
A new initiative by local young adults aims to foster vibrant connections.
Houston, Texas – Dori Jezmir and Eric Stevelman are making waves in Houston with the launch of a Moishe House Pod, a first for the city. Officially initiated on November 1, this innovative program represents a grassroots effort to strengthen the Jewish community, specifically targeting young adults in their 20s and 30s. It’s inspiring to see local leaders taking initiative to create welcoming spaces where individuals can congregate and celebrate their culture with minimal bureaucratic obstacles.
The Moishe House Pod model differentiates itself from traditional Moishe Houses, which accommodate multiple residents. Instead, this smaller format operates with just two co-residents who will host three Jewish programs each month, fostering an environment for community engagement and cultural exploration. Such initiatives highlight how individual efforts can yield significant community benefits, cultivating a sense of belonging and personally-driven civic engagement.
Understanding Moishe House Pods
Moishe House Pods form part of a worldwide initiative designed to create significant Jewish communities. Each Pod, managed by two residents, promotes interactive programs that encourage participation among peers. The Moishe House organization supports these Pods through rent subsidies and program funding, which allows participants to engage without the weight of financial burdens that often complicate community organization.
Meet the Founders
Dori Jezmir, a 22-year-old marketing graduate from the University of Kansas, has a proven track record in community service. Her experience organizing counterprotests against antisemitism during her college years demonstrates a robust commitment to fostering Jewish identity. This passion for community advocacy stems in part from her upbringing; as the daughter of a Jewish immigrant from the former Soviet Union, she has a deeply-rooted understanding of Jewish heritage.
Eric Stevelman, 25, brings a background in chemical engineering from Texas A&M University and a personal growth journey that led him to embrace his Jewish faith more deeply during his college years. Together, Jezmir and Stevelman, as active members of Chabad of Uptown’s Young Jewish Professionals group, are positioned to lead a diverse array of initiatives that not only enrich their lives but also the lives of other young Jewish adults in the area.
Upcoming Events
The newly launched Moishe House Pod is set to host a range of engaging events aimed at fostering community spirit and connection. Upcoming activities include:
- Housewarming and Friendsgiving Shabbat Dinner
- Themed Shabbat dinners
- Movie nights
- Football watch parties
- Arts and crafts sessions
- “Tacos and Torah” learning sessions
By collaborating with local Jewish organizations, Jezmir and Stevelman aim to enhance community outreach and engagement, demonstrating how effective partnerships can amplify the impact of local initiatives.
About Moishe House
Moishe House is an internationally recognized non-profit organization that provides crucial support to young adults looking to create meaningful Jewish communities. With over 100 locations worldwide, the network allows residents to access essential resources that empower them to host diverse events. By removing traditional barriers and supporting innovative ideas, Moishe House facilitates a vibrant civic landscape.
Getting Involved
Local residents eager to engage with the Houston Moishe House Pod can find more information on upcoming events by reaching out via the provided contact details:
Moishe House Houston
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @moishehouse_houstonheights
Conclusion
The launch of the Moishe House Pod in Houston exemplifies the power of individual initiative in fostering community vibrancy. As local leaders like Jezmir and Stevelman work to create welcoming spaces, they not only enhance cultural connections but also inspire a broader movement of civic innovation. We encourage Houston residents to support these local efforts and engage in community development initiatives that will strengthen the city.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Moishe House Pod?
A Moishe House Pod is a smaller version of the traditional Moishe House, designed for two residents who live together and host three Jewish programs monthly. Participants can engage in the program for up to three and a half years.
Who are the founders of the Houston Moishe House Pod?
The Houston Moishe House Pod was founded by Dori Jezmir, a 22-year-old marketing graduate from the University of Kansas, and Eric Stevelman, a 25-year-old chemical engineering graduate from Texas A&M University. Both are active members of Chabad of Uptown’s Young Jewish Professionals group.
What events are planned by the Houston Moishe House Pod?
The couple has planned several events, including a housewarming and Friendsgiving Shabbat Dinner, themed Shabbat dinners, movie nights, football watch parties, arts and crafts sessions, and “Tacos and Torah” learning sessions. They aim to collaborate with various Jewish organizations to enhance community involvement.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Moishe House Pod |
| Location | Houston, Texas |
| Founders | Dori Jezmir and Eric Stevelman |
| Program Start Date | November 1 |
| Number of Residents | 2 |
| Monthly Programs | 3 |
| Program Duration | Up to 3.5 years |
| Upcoming Events | Housewarming and Friendsgiving Shabbat Dinner, Themed Shabbat Dinners, Movie Nights, Football Watch Parties, Arts and Crafts Sessions, “Tacos and Torah” Learning Sessions |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |
| @moishehouse_houstonheights |
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