Chai Lifeline is proud to announce the appointment of Rabbi Doniel Freund as Executive Director of its Midwest Region, where he will lead the organization’s vital support services for families confronting pediatric illness and crisis across Chicago and the greater Midwest.
With a dynamic background in Jewish communal leadership, education, and nonprofit development, Rabbi Freund brings a deep passion for chesed, an empathetic leadership style, and a proven ability to build programs, partnerships, and relationships that strengthen communities. His appointment comes after an extensive national search.
Rabbi Freund most recently served as Director of General Studies for the Fasman Yeshiva High School, where he oversaw the school’s administrative functions and helped grow its educational footprint and communal impact. Prior to that, he held leadership roles in both communal and educational settings, including as founder and principal of Yeshivat Kadimah High School in St Louis.
Throughout his career, Rabbi Freund has been deeply involved in the Chicago Jewish community, working with families, schools, and institutions to foster growth, resilience, and unity. His compassionate presence and ability to galvanize support have already made him a trusted figure among those Chai Lifeline serves and supports.
“Rabbi Freund embodies the heart and mission of Chai Lifeline,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline CEO. “His warmth, vision, and deep understanding of community needs make him uniquely suited to lead our Midwest region into its next chapter of growth. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Chai Lifeline family.”
In his new role, Rabbi Freund will be responsible for expanding Chai Lifeline Midwest’s regional programs and services, engaging with community partners, families, and donors, and building upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors. His focus will include broadening access to case management, crisis intervention, Camp Simcha Without Borders programming, hospital and home-based support, and other year-round services for children and families confronting illness and trauma.
With more than 150 local families relying on Chai Lifeline’s care in the Midwest each year, Rabbi Freund’s leadership promises to deepen the organization’s impact while inspiring new avenues of hope and healing.
