Jewish Chicago Magazine

Leah leads with her Jewish values-helping people to heal from their darkest and most vulnerable moments.

At JCFS Chicago, Leah, an MSW, has planned and facilitated community grief education programs; co-created a Shabbat dinner initiative for grieving young adults; and co-led JCFS Chicago’s first-ever group reaching older adults in the Orthodox community grieving the loss of an adult child.

Through her role in the Progressive Chevra Kadisha, Leah volunteers to perform taharah , ritually preparing the deceased for burial with dignity and compassion.

When antisemitic attacks targeted Jewish DePaul University students, Leah counseled Hillel staff in person. “This was the most beneficial group I’ve ever attended,” one participant said. “You helped me begin healing from this insurmountable pain.”

An Avodah Jewish Service Corps alum, Leah launched her post-college career at EZRA Multi-Service Center, and previously taught religious school and tutored students for their b’nai mitzvahs.

As Rabbi Dr. Joseph S. Ozarowski, Leah’s colleague, describes her: “In every aspect of her life, Leah lives Jewishly with intention, humility, and heart.”

AGE:
33

PRONOUNS:
She/her/hers

PRIMARY GIG:
Grief specialist and Chaplaincy Coordinator at JCFS Chicago

CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
Ilana Glazer with glasses or Mirabel from Encanto.

A JEW WHO INSPIRES YOU:
My grandfather, Laury, who was mostly pretty mild mannered and laid back but had a lifelong commitment to progressive politics and antiracism that could get him riled up until the end of his life.

YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE:
A classic from Pirkei Avot – “It is not your duty to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.