← Back to home Meet the team

People who know your name

Our staff bring warmth, steadiness, and genuine attention to each participant's day. Get to know the people who help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels known, valued, and connected.

Photo of Menachem Taragin

Menachem Taragin

Program Director

Menachem is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience serving older adults. As Program Director, he helps participants maintain their independence, stay engaged, and enjoy a high quality of life. He also works closely with families to provide guidance, support, and open communication.

Photo of Yehudis Gutnicki

Yehudis Gutnicki

Activities Coordinator

As Activities Coordinator, Yehudis oversees all programming to ensure engaging, high-quality activities are provided each day. She works to create a well-rounded experience for participants and also coordinates visits from local schools and camps to encourage intergenerational connection and community engagement.

Photo of Batya Kassner

Batya Kassner

Registered Nurse

As our Registered Nurse, Batya brings a warm smile, a caring heart, and a positive attitude to everything she does. With her compassionate approach and cheerful personality, she helps ensure that every participant feels comfortable, supported, and well cared for.

Photo of Yedidya Anflick

Yedidya Anflick

Transportation Director

Yedidya serves as Transportation Director, coordinating with families and helping ensure smooth, reliable transportation for participants. Known for a cheerful, exuberant personality, Yedidya is a favorite among participants. When not behind the wheel, he brings the same energy and warmth to the day's activities.

Photo of Folakemi Ajigbotafe

Folakemi Ajigbotafe

Program Assistant

As a Maryland Certified Medication Technician, Folakemi brings both skill and compassion to her role as a Program Assistant. Originally a fashion designer in Nigeria, she is known for her caring nature and attentive support. She provides personal care to participants, helping each person feel comfortable, respected, and valued throughout the day.

Photo of Dr. Menachem Cooper

Dr. Menachem Cooper

Medical Director

As Medical Director, Dr. Cooper serves as the program’s medical authority and provides oversight for all health-related concerns. Specializing in geriatrics, Dr. Cooper is available to address questions and issues, ensuring participants receive safe, appropriate, and high-quality care.

Photo of Sara Jaffee

Sara Jaffee

Registered Nurse

Sara is an experienced Registered Nurse with a strong background in geriatric care. She is committed to supporting the health and well-being of older adults through attentive, compassionate care.

Photo of Ayala Goldstein

Ayala Goldstein

Program Assistant

As a Program Assistant, Ayala helps with all aspects of the day, providing support wherever it's needed. Known for a cheerful attitude, Ayala helps create a welcoming, positive environment where participants feel comfortable, engaged, and cared for.

Photo of Malka Zweig

Malka Zweig

Activities Specialist

Malka brings energy and excitement to every activity. Through games, anagrams, and engaging group programs, she helps participants connect, express their personalities, and discover strengths and interests they may not have known they had.

Photo of Elisheva Rishe

Elisheva Rishe

PR, Marketing & Intake Manager

Elisheva brings energy, creativity, and enthusiasm to everything she does. Full of fresh ideas and always ready to make things happen, she combines a warm, personable approach with a passion for connecting with people. Her outgoing personality and positive spirit help make everyone feel welcome and excited to be part of the L’Chaim family.

Photo of Shifra Sonnenschein

Shifra Sonnenschein

Arts & Creativity Specialist

As the Arts and Creativity Specialist, Shifra brings a highly creative and artistic spirit to the program. She has a talent for bringing out the artist in every participant, encouraging self-expression, imagination, and confidence through engaging hands-on activities.

Photo of Deborah Bandos

Deborah Bandos

Yoga & Wellness Instructor

As our Yoga & Wellness Instructor, Deborah brings enthusiasm and positive energy to the program every day. Through yoga, stretching, and exercise, she helps participants stay active, improve mobility, and enjoy movement in a supportive and encouraging environment.

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Adina Zuckerman

Program Assistant

Adina brings youthful energy, a friendly smile, and a helping hand to everything she does. Always eager to pitch in wherever needed, she connects naturally with participants and staff alike. Her warm personality, positive attitude, and willingness to help make her a wonderful addition to our team.

Photo of Yaakov Cohen

Yaakov Cohen

IT Consultant

As the IT Consultant, Yaakov manages all technology needs for the program, from day-to-day systems support to web development. He plays a key role in shaping the organization’s public presence by maintaining and enhancing the website, ensuring it is clear, accessible, and reflective of the care and quality of the program.