Julie Mirliss and David Finger in Montana for Togethering experience. Courtesy: Julie Mirliss

By Alachua Haskins

Last fall, Austin was invited to be a pilot city for “Togethering,” the Jewish Federations of North America’s immersive travel experience for young, mixed heritage couples (25-40) to explore how Jewish values, traditions, and culture can bring something meaningful to the lives they build together.

In November, 20 Austin couples traveled to Yellowstone National Park, accompanied by Alachua Haskins, Shalom Austin senior engagement director. The Jewish Outlook spoke with one of the couples, Julie Mirliss and David Finger, to hear more about their experience.

Q. What interested you in Togethering?

A. We were initially drawn to Togethering because of the trip and getting to meet new Jewish couples. Then we saw it was a chance to grow our relationship while exploring Jewish values. Plus we wanted to meet more Jewish Austinites — especially after October 7th, we found that we didn’t have enough people who we could talk to about it.

Q. How were you involved in the Jewish community before Togethering?

A. Since we began dating, we have loved hosting Shabbat dinners with our friends as a chance to end the work week with intention and community, and of course delicious food.

Q. What is something you learned about each other on the trip?

A. It was so nice to see each other flourish in a new environment, make new friends and show vulnerability with others and to each other in a new way. While expanding our community was a big part of the trip, we also got a chance to have meaningful conversations about our goals as a Jewish couple, which brought us closer together.

Our favorite activity was when we were all asked to walk around and share commentary on a variety of poems, Jewish writings, and artwork. At the end we all were told to go to our favorite piece. Both of us were drawn to the same one, which made us feel really connected.

Q. What aspects of Judaism have you incorporated into your relationship/life since the trip or how are you currently involved in the Jewish community?

A. We continue to host Shabbats with friends and attend events around Austin that align with our Jewish values and beliefs. We now feel surrounded by Jewish people in Austin and it’s amazing!

Q. How have you stayed connected with other couples since the trip?

A. We’ve kept in touch with fellow couples through group chats, reunions, and Shabbat dinners — it’s been wonderful to have that extended support system. We even attended another couples’ wedding recently and David got to sign the Ketubah!

Q. What is something you would tell another couple considering going on a Togethering trip?

A. For anyone considering this trip, we’d say GO! It is such a special chance to invest in your relationship, meet thoughtful couples in your community, and engage with Jewish life in a warm, inclusive, and memorable way.