Ruthie Charendoff

As a Child Life Specialist, Ruthie has seen firsthand the challenges young patients face in the hospital. This experience inspired her to write Keisha Learns to Roar , a book about a child's experience in a hospital setting. The book aims to empower young burn victims with knowledge, which has been shown to help children cope with traumatic situations.

Described as "kind, empathetic, and a leader," Ruthie is passionate about the Chicago Jewish community, Ruthie is active in Mem Global, Moishe House's parent organization that supports Jewish young adults in connecting, learning, and leading in meaningful and authentic ways, and regularly leads a Lakeview minyan for Shabbat services. Ruthie also ran a Peer Led Retreat with Mem Global focused on the queer community. 

Ruthie and her partner are residents of Moishe Pod Chicago - Lakeview, where they host several community programs every month. She is involved with Base and is an active member of Anshe Emet Synagogue, as well.

 

AGE:
28

PRONOUNS:
She/her/hers

PRIMARY GIG:
Child Life Specialist at Cook County Health

ON THE SIDE:
I run volunteer projects for kids and families to give back to their communities.

SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME:
I was a canoe instructor at a summer camp.

CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
Kit Kittredge, and her best friend is Ruthie!

HOW YOU JEW IN CHICAGO:
Summer Shabbats by the lake

YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE:
You don't have to be good at your hobbies.