Sarah Beren Karelitz

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Sarah Beren Karelitz's commitment to Jewish causes is as long-standing as it is deep. For nearly 12 years, she worked for AIPAC helping to oversee much of the Midwest chapter. She then turned her dozen years of experience into a consultant role with Giving Tree Associates, where she helps steer nonprofits toward success and sustainable growth.

Working with nonprofits is also part of how Sarah spends her free time. She is the outgoing outreach chair and incoming campaign chair on the JUF Young Women's City Council and sits on the board of directors for CityPAC and the Young Family Board at Anshe Emet Synagogue.

Although Sarah's time as a jBaby Chicago parent ambassador has come to an end, she notes that connecting with new parents and introducing them to the Jewish community has been one of the most gratifying Jewish experiences she's had.

AGE:
35

PRIMARY GIG:
Mom and eternal cheerio/pirate’s booty bag-filler to Mia and Dani. Senior Associate Consultant at Giving Tree Associates.

ON THE SIDE:
Gym enthusiast with a track record of thinking about going to the gym more than actually actively going to it. Foodie enthusiast.

RELATIONSHIP STATUS:
Married to Jon Karelitz

HOW YOU JEW IN CHICAGO:
Chicago is a limitless city with opportunities to get involved in causes, community, and culture in so many ways. On a personal note, one of the most mindful ways I “Jew” is by doing Havdallah with my family. It’s a ritual I’ve come to really appreciate, a real pause to reflect on the week prior, and look ahead to a new week. And it’s a concept that any age can relate to.

CHICAGO'S JEWISH COMMUNITY IN 10 YEARS:
Diverse, dynamic, and hopefully, despite all the polarization within the Jewish community and the greater world, able to look beyond that and appreciate each other for what each of us uniquely brings to the table. I think all our Jewish organizations right now are at a crossroads; being very thoughtful on how to bring their mission and practices to a new generation without disenfranchising an older audience. I feel really hopeful and excited to see where Jewish Chicago will be in the next 10 years.