THE TEAM
Rabbi Mendel Baitelman
Co-Director
Rabbi Mendel was born and raised right here in San Fernando Valley, he then expanded his passion for Judaism all over the world. Mendel furthered his Jewish studies in Venezuela and Israel, worked as a Rabbi in Vietnam, and then as an educator in Brooklyn. Mendel has always felt passionate about making a difference, and always knew that he would find a place to make that happen. In January of 2020, he and his wife Leah got married. One year later they visited Universal City and eventually made it their home. Mendel looks forward to bringing the love and life of Judaism to the Universal City neighborhood.
Leah Baitelman
Co-Director
Leah originally hails from Rancho Cucamonga, CA where she grew up in a family dedicated to community her parents run their own Chabad center for San Bernardino County! Even as a little girl, there was no question in her mind that she would do the same. She furthered her studies in Israel, and did Jewish outreach in Hong kong, Milwaukee and England. Leah worked at the Manhattan Hebrew School and Chabad HQ. Leah loves baking Challah, meeting new people and being a mom to her two little kiddos!.
Mushka Baitelman
Everyone’s Favorite Executive Assistant
As proud big sister, Mushka is also our most enthusiastic about all things Jewish related. Mushka loves to draw, take really good care of her dolls, and outdo anyone in a bubble contest. She is obsessed with Shabbat— her favorite song is “The Shabbat Angels”, her favorite food is challah, and she loves when friends come for a shabbat meal - join us for one and make her day!
Avraham Baitelman
Employee of the Month, Every Month
Our tiniest team member so far, Avraham never shies away from a chance to party. Avraham loves his magna tiles, enjoys a good meal, and can drum better than any 12 month old. With a perpetual smile on his face, Avraham joy is infectious.