Chai Lifeline, the international children’s health support organization, will formally inaugurate the Mid-Atlantic Region when it opens a new office in Baltimore, MD, on January 4, 2016.

The organization, which offers emotional, social, and financial support to families of children with life-threatening illnesses and serious chronic conditions, already cares for more than 110 families in the region. The new office will centralize and expand options for care and support.

Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline’s executive vice president, explained, “Chai Lifeline has always had an active presence along the Baltimore/Washington DC axis. As more children and families reached out to us, it became obvious that a physical presence would enable us to offer additional programs and services in a wider geographic area, expand our already significant volunteer base, and develop stronger relationships with the hospitals, medical centers, and professionals who provide such expert care to sick children.”

The region will be headed by Rabbi Shmuel Miller. Rabbi Miller brings three decades of experience in organizational development and leadership. He previously founded and ran an outreach organization in England, oversaw operations of the New England region of NCSY, and most recently served as Rabbi of Ohr Somayach Synagogue in South Africa.
“Rabbi Miller brings that critical blend of compassion, engagement, and management skills to this position,” said Rabbi Scholar.

“I am honored by the appointment,” stated Rabbi Miller. “Chai Lifeline deserves its well-earned reputation as an organization that functions with integrity and passion to ease the burden of illness on children and their families and help communities cope with crises and trauma.”

Also headquartered in the new regional office is Tzvi Haber, Chai Lifeline’s program consultant, who continues to volunteer as the region’s volunteer coordinator. Mr. Haber has worked with Chai Lifeline for six years, building the volunteer base throughout the Maryland/Washington DC area and serving as the Assistant Head Counselor at Camp Simcha/Camp Simcha Special, Chai Lifeline’s pioneering overnight summer camps for seriously ill children and teens.

Haber is delighted by Rabbi Miller’s appointment. “The passion and energy of our volunteers, who number more than 120 young men and women, coupled with Rabbi Miller’s professionalism and experience, will give families a highly specialized support system that will help them cope with the crises and challenges of their daily lives.”
Avigail Rosemore, a Chai Lifeline parent and active supporter, is also excited by the new developments. “The opening of a regional office will help families access Chai Lifeline services and programs. I know it will make a big difference in the lives of so many children.”

For additional information on the new Mid Atlantic Region or to request services, email [email protected].

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)